Meeting Times: 10 am - 11 am and 7 pm - 8 pm. You can attend either or both if you want more perspectives. We will be covering the same material.

We are studying the book of Romans, which is Paul’s clearest explanation of the Gospel. Over the next several weeks, we’re going to discover what this letter means for us.

You’ll notice that our study isn’t divided by chapters. Instead Pastor Jamie has organized it by THOUGHT SECTIONS. Remember, Paul wasn’t writing a book with chapter numbers and headings - he was writing a letter. Sometimes one idea continues in the next chapter, so rather than stopping where a chapter ends, we’ll follow Paul’s complete train of thought. Pastor Jamie’s hope is that this helps us understand no only what Paul says, but why he says it.

Week 3 Study questions

Read Romans 1:18 - 3:20

1) Imagine you were one of the Jewish Christians hearing this letter read for the very first time. At what point do you think you would have started feeling uncomfortable? Why?

2) Paul spends a lot of time showing that everyone falls short. Why do you think it’s important to understand our need before we can truly appreciate God’s grace?

3) In chapter 2, Paul warns against judging others while ignoring our own shortcomings. Why do you think it’s often easier to recognize someone else’s faults than our own?

4) Paul says that simply knowing God’s law isn’t enough—we’re called to live it. How can knowing the right thing sometimes become a substitute for actually doing the right thing?

5) Paul talks about God’s kindness leading people to repentance (2:4). Have you found that people are more often changed by condemnation or by kindness? Why do you think Paul emphasizes God’s kindness?

6) What part of this week’s reading challenged your understanding of God or yourself the most?

7) How would you summarize Paul’s message in this passage in your own words?