Romans 5:12-21 - Small Group Discussion Guide

Summary
This sermon focuses on Romans 5:12-21, exploring the contrast between Adam's sin bringing death into the world and Christ's righteousness bringing life. The pastor explains how through one man (Adam) sin entered the world, bringing both spiritual and physical death to all humanity. However, through one man (Jesus), God's grace and the free gift of righteousness brings justification and eternal life to all who believe. The sermon emphasizes that where sin abounds, God's grace abounds even more.

Intro Prayer
Heavenly Father, as we gather to discuss Your Word, open our hearts and minds to understand the depth of Your grace. Help us grasp how Your free gift through Jesus Christ overcomes the sin and death that entered through Adam. Guide our discussion and reveal what You want each of us to learn today. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Ice Breaker
What's the most meaningful gift you've ever received and why was it so special to you?

Key Verses

• Romans 5:12
• Romans 5:17
• Romans 5:20-21
• Isaiah 9:6
• Jeremiah 11:14

Questions

• How does Paul contrast Adam's trespass with Christ's free gift in this passage?
• What does it mean that death is 'sin's great witness' according to the sermon?
• How does the pastor explain the difference between biological life (bios) and spiritual life (zoe)?
• Why is it significant that Paul refers to both Adam and Jesus as 'one man'?
• How does the Law make our need for grace more apparent?
• What does it mean for grace to 'reign through righteousness' in our lives?
• How does understanding our state of spiritual death before Christ help us appreciate the life He offers?
• In what ways have you experienced God's grace abounding in your life where sin once reigned?

Life Application
This week, identify one area of your life where sin's influence still feels strong. Each day, consciously surrender that area to Christ and ask for His grace to reign instead. Keep a journal of how God's grace works in that situation throughout the week.

Key Takeaways

• Through Adam's sin, both spiritual and physical death entered the world affecting all humanity
• Christ's free gift of grace is greater than the consequences of sin
• The Law reveals our sin and need for grace
• True life comes only through relationship with Jesus Christ
• Where sin increases, God's grace abounds even more

Ending Prayer
Lord Jesus, thank You for Your free gift of grace that overcomes all our sin. We're grateful that where sin once reigned in our lives, Your grace now reigns through righteousness. Help us to live in the freedom and abundance of the new life You've given us. May we be witnesses to Your transforming power in our daily lives. In Your name we pray, Amen.