Romans 4:17-25 - Small Group Discussion Guide

Summary
The sermon focuses on Abraham's faith and hope in God, using Romans 4:17-25 as the primary text. The pastor emphasizes that Christian faith is not blind or silly, but rather grounded in the reality of who God is and His demonstrated faithfulness. Abraham's faith in God's ability to give life to the dead (through the birth of Isaac) and call things into existence that don't exist serves as a model for Christian faith today, particularly in light of Jesus's resurrection.

Intro Prayer
Heavenly Father, as we gather to discuss Your Word, we ask that You would open our hearts and minds to understand the depth of faith demonstrated by Abraham. Help us to see how his example can strengthen our own faith and hope in You. Guide our discussion and reveal the truths You want us to learn today. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Ice Breaker
Share about a time when you had to wait for something important. How did you handle the waiting period?

Key Verses

• Romans 4:17-21
• Hebrews 11:1
• 1 Peter 1:3
• Colossians 1:23

Questions

• What's the difference between blind faith and biblical faith according to this sermon?
• How did Abraham demonstrate faith in God's ability to 'give life to the dead'?
• What does it mean to have hope 'against hope' as Abraham did?
• How does the resurrection of Jesus Christ give us a 'living hope'?
• In what ways can difficulties and challenges actually strengthen our faith, as they did for Abraham?
• How does our future hope in Christ affect how we live in the present?
• What are some practical ways we can demonstrate that our faith is grounded in God's character rather than just emotions?
• How can we grow stronger in our faith while giving glory to God, as Abraham did?

Life Application
This week, identify an area of your life where you need to trust God more fully. Write down God's promises that relate to this situation and spend time each day thanking Him in advance for His faithfulness, just as Abraham did while waiting for God's promises to be fulfilled.

Key Takeaways

• Christian faith is not blind but grounded in God's character and demonstrated power
• Biblical hope is based on God's faithfulness in the past and pulls our future certainty into our present
• Faith doesn't ignore reality but knows who God is despite circumstances
• Our hope is as certain as Christ's resurrection
• True faith grows stronger through worship and giving glory to God

Ending Prayer
Lord God, thank You for the example of Abraham's faith and for showing us that our hope in You is not wishful thinking but is grounded in Your character and promises. Help us to live with the same unwavering faith that Abraham demonstrated, knowing that You are faithful to fulfill all Your promises. May we grow stronger in our faith as we give glory to You. In Jesus' name, Amen.