You in 5 Years
Sermon: You – Completely Secure
Romans 8:35-39
Sermon Summary
The Big Idea of this study is that in spite of the challenges that we face in life we can rest assured that God loves us and is actively working on our behalf.
In the final lesson on this series from Romans chapter 8 we hear the Apostle sum up what he is trying to help us understand. God is for us. God loves us. Nothing can separate us from his great concern for our wellbeing.
Remember, love in this context is not simply affection. In fact the way the Bible describes God’s love; it is not at all about warm fuzzy feelings. That is a modern and secular concept of love. God’s love for us is seen in benevolent action on our behalf. It stems from his commitment to us and is unaffected by our circumstances.
Paul assures us that nothing can come between us and his love for us because of Jesus Christ. He lists two kinds of problems we might encounter. The first kind come from challenges thrown at us because of our faith in Jesus. The kinds of challenges and trials Paul faced throughout his life. Paul quotes the Old Testament Psalm to remind us that difficulties for the faithful are not new to our generation. The book of Revelation calls these “tribulations.” The second category of challenges we face come simply from life on planet Earth. But whatever we face, Jesus is near.
The whole chapter is summed up in these last few lines. Why is there no condemnation? Why does the Spirit live in us? Why has he promised heaven? Why are we more than conquerors? Because he loves us and will never allow anything to separate us from that love.
Questions for Discussion:
What challenges might you face in the next 5 years?
What is your level of confidence in facing what may lie in your future? On a scale of 1 to 10 are you scared to death or boldly optimistic about your ability to thrive? Why?
Have you experienced tribulation? Tribulation is pressure that comes against those who endeavor to remain faithful to Jesus. This is an age old problem for those who love God.
People who attend church regularly are the happiest people on earth. That statistic shows up all the time in surveys. Why is that the case?
Can you commit to meditating on the truth of Romans chapter 8? What habit might help remind you to do just that?