RECAP: Romans chapter 8 is sometimes called the greatest chapter in the whole Bible. Throughout this month we’re looking in this chapter to gain clarity and focus for 2020. Too often we live our lives hiding behind masks, ashamed, racked with guilt, or embarrassed by habits that won’t die. It’s hard to live our “best life” when that’s our experience. The truth is our sin has made us guilty. We stood condemned before God. But, thanks to Jesus, when we’re in a relationship with Him we’re no longer condemned. We can live in freedom. We can put down the masks. This is grace. This is the gift Jesus offers each one of us.

(1) Have you ever been in a situation where you couldn’t see clearly? What did that feel like, or cause you to do?

(2) Most of us struggle with the tension of wanting to live one way, but struggling to do that consistently. Where do you most feel that tension? What “masks” do you tend to wear to hide that tension from others?

(3) Read Romans 8:1. What do you think it means that there is “no condemnation”? What does that include?

(4) In Romans 8:1 it talks about a pre-requisite for living with “no condemnation”. What is that?

(5) What does Romans 8:2-4 say about “why” we are no longer condemned? What do these verses say about where life and death are found?

(6) Read Romans 6:23. We use this verse to draw out “The Bridge”. It’s a picture of how we begin a relationship with Jesus. Picture a chasm with you on one side and God on the other. Our sin separates us from God. Jesus is the bridge between us and God. What we earn for our sin is death (separation), but Jesus came as a bridge & a gift. We can’t earn it, but we can receive it. What questions do you have about this verse or these concepts?

(7) If you want to see clearly in 2020 (and beyond) we need to live free from guilt, shame and condemnation. Have you begun a relationship with Jesus? If not, what’s keeping you from that? If you have, remind yourself consistently that you are no longer condemned. Live in the freedom Jesus has for you.

(If you’ve never begun a relationship with Jesus but would like to, you can say this prayer if you believe the words) “God, I need you. I realize that my sin condemned me, but because Jesus died for my sins, I don’t have to be condemned any more. I can live with freedom and hope. I receive Jesus as my Savior – that He took my place on the cross and made a bridge between us. I want to follow you, I want to live for you. Amen.”

(if you’re a follower of Jesus) “God, help me to not live with guilt, shame or condemnation. To not hide behind masks. Help me to live in the freedom you have given me. I’m not condemned! It’s not anything I’ve done, it’s all about what Jesus has done for me and I’m grateful. Help me to live with a new sense of freedom, boldness and peace in 2020. Thank you for your grace. Amen”