Romans 3:18-19 - Small Group Discussion Guide

Summary
This sermon from Romans 8:18-23 addresses the reality of suffering in the Christian life while emphasizing that God's glory far outweighs any suffering we experience. Pastor Phil explains that all of creation is eagerly awaiting the return of Christ, and while suffering is a universal human experience, it cannot compare to the eternal glory that awaits believers. Using examples from the Apostle Paul's own sufferings and stories of faithful Christians like Dietrich Bonhoeffer, the message challenges believers to count the cost of discipleship and live courageously for Christ. The sermon emphasizes that suffering, when endured faithfully with Christ, has meaning and purpose in God's plan to reclaim all of creation for Himself.

Intro Prayer
Heavenly Father, as we gather together today to study Your Word, we ask that You would open our hearts and minds to receive what You want to teach us. Help us to be honest about the struggles and sufferings we face, while also opening our eyes to see Your glory that far surpasses any pain we experience. Give us courage to follow Christ faithfully, no matter the cost. Holy Spirit, guide our discussion and help us to encourage one another as we grow in our understanding of Your truth. In Jesus' name we pray, Amen.

Ice Breaker
What is one small sacrifice or inconvenience you've willingly endured for something you really cared about (like waiting in a long line for concert tickets, training for a race, or saving money for something special)?

Key Verses

• Romans 8:18
• Romans 8:19-23
• Romans 5:1-5
• 1 Peter 4:12-13
• 2 Corinthians 1:5

Questions

• How does Paul's statement in Romans 8:18 challenge our typical response to suffering and difficulties?
• What does it mean that 'all of creation is groaning' and waiting for the revealing of God's children? How does this change your perspective on the world around us?
• The pastor mentioned that suffering is the 'universal human experience.' How do you reconcile this reality with God's goodness and love?
• What are some ways that following Christ might cost us in our current culture and society?
• How can we distinguish between general life suffering and suffering that comes specifically from following Jesus?
• The sermon mentioned that 'cowardice is not part of the Christian life.' What does Christian courage look like in practical, everyday situations?
• How do the examples of Dietrich Bonhoeffer and other faithful Christians throughout history encourage or challenge you in your own faith journey?
• What does it mean to 'count the cost' of discipleship, and how can we prepare ourselves to pay that cost faithfully?

Life Application
This week, identify one area where you may be compromising your faith or holding back from fully following Christ because of fear of what it might cost you. Take one concrete step to live more courageously for Jesus in that area, whether it's having a difficult conversation, making a lifestyle change, or taking a stand for biblical truth. Remember that any suffering you endure for Christ's sake cannot compare to the glory that awaits you.

Key Takeaways

• Suffering is a universal human experience, but for Christians, it cannot compare to the glory that will be revealed
• All of creation is eagerly awaiting the return of Christ and the restoration of all things
• Following Jesus requires counting the cost and being willing to suffer for His sake
• Christian suffering has meaning and purpose - it connects us to Christ's sufferings and advances God's kingdom
• We must choose between wasting our suffering on temporary things or investing it in the eternal cause of Christ

Ending Prayer
Lord Jesus, thank You for the reminder that You understand our suffering because You suffered for us. Help us to see our trials and difficulties through the lens of Your eternal glory. Give us the courage to follow You faithfully, even when it costs us something in this life. Help us to remember that any sacrifice we make for You is nothing compared to the glory that awaits us. Strengthen us to live as people who truly believe that You are worth everything. May our lives reflect the hope we have in You, and may others see Your glory through our faithful endurance. In Your precious name we pray, Amen.