Romans 8:12-17b - Small Group Discussion Guide

Summary
This sermon from Romans 8:12-17 explores the profound truth that Christians are adopted into God's family through the Holy Spirit. Pastor Phil emphasizes that believers are no longer slaves to sin and fear, but have received the Spirit of adoption, allowing them to cry "Abba, Father" to God. As adopted children, Christians become heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, inheriting all the riches of God's kingdom. However, this inheritance comes with the understanding that we will suffer with Christ as we follow Him, but we will also be glorified with Him. The sermon contrasts the life of slavery - characterized by fear, manipulation, and meaningless suffering - with the life of adoption - characterized by love, inheritance, and purposeful suffering that leads to glory.

Intro Prayer
Heavenly Father, we come before You this morning grateful for Your Word and the truth it reveals about who we are in Christ. As we gather together to discuss what it means to be adopted into Your family, we ask that You would open our hearts and minds to receive what You want to teach us today. Help us to set aside any distractions or preconceived notions, and give us ears to hear Your voice speaking to us through Your Spirit. May our time together draw us closer to You and to one another as members of Your family. In Jesus' name we pray, Amen.

Ice Breaker
What is one family tradition or memory from your childhood that you still cherish today?

Key Verses

• Romans 8:15
• Romans 8:16
• Romans 8:17
• Galatians 4:5-6
• John 1:12

Questions

• What does it mean to you personally that you have been adopted into God's family rather than just being a servant or follower?
• The sermon mentions that we no longer have "the spirit of slavery to fall back into fear." What are some fears that you struggle with, and how does knowing you're God's child help address those fears?
• Paul uses the intimate term "Abba, Father" to describe our relationship with God. How does this level of intimacy with God impact your prayer life and daily relationship with Him?
• As heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, what are some of the "inheritances" we receive as God's children? Which of these means the most to you right now?
• The passage says we will "suffer with him in order that we may also be glorified with him." How do you understand the connection between suffering and glory in the Christian life?
• What's the difference between suffering as a slave versus suffering with Christ as described in this passage?
• How does understanding your identity as an adopted child of God change the way you view challenges and difficulties in your life?
• In what practical ways can we live out our identity as children of God in our daily lives, families, and communities?

Life Application
This week, practice calling God "Abba, Father" in your prayer time, focusing on the intimate, loving relationship you have with Him as His adopted child. When you face moments of fear or anxiety, remind yourself that you are not a slave to those fears but a beloved child of God who has inherited His peace and strength.

Key Takeaways

• Christians are adopted into God's family through the Holy Spirit, not slaves to sin and fear
• We have received the Spirit of adoption that allows us to call God "Abba, Father" with intimacy and love
• As God's children, we are heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, inheriting all the riches of His kingdom
• Our suffering as Christians is meaningful because we suffer with Christ, not as slaves for a master
• The ultimate promise is that we will be glorified with Christ, sharing in His eternal glory

Ending Prayer
Abba, Father, thank You for the incredible truth that You have adopted us into Your family. Help us to live each day with the confidence and security that comes from knowing we are Your beloved children. When we face fears and challenges, remind us that we are not slaves but sons and daughters who can come to You with boldness and trust. May we embrace both the privileges and responsibilities of bearing Your name, and help us to suffer well when called to do so, knowing that glory awaits. Thank You for making us co-heirs with Christ and for the promise of eternal life with You. In Jesus' name, Amen.