In this passage, Paul gives us an essential perspective on suffering and the Christian Life. There is a coming glory that is beyond anything that we can imagine; A glory so incredible that one day all of our pain, suffering, and struggle will suddenly make sense. The message of Romans 8:18-25 is this: Christian, you will suffer, but incomparable glory is coming, so endure today with hope-filled patience.
REFLECTION QUESTIONS
THINKING: QUESTIONS AIMED AT OUR MINDS TO HELP US UNDERSTAND GOD’S WORD.
What do verses 19-22 tell us about sin?
Compare adoption in verse 15 and verse 23. Do these verses contradict each other?
FEELING: QUESTIONS AIMED AT OUR AFFECTIONS TO HELP US LOVE GOD
How does looking to the cross of Christ help us to endure suffering?
How does looking to the coming glory help us to endure suffering?
DOING: QUESTIONS AIMED AT OUR HANDS TO HELP US LIVE FOR GOD (PERSONALLY, COMMUNALLY, AND MISSIONALLY)
Which of the five ways to endure suffering with hope filled patience do you already do now? Which ones can you as the Lord to grow you in?
Look to the cross of Jesus Christ
Live by faith in the unseen
Pray honestly and often
Know that God is God and you are not
Expect God to grow you in your suffering
How can you respond to non-believers who are skeptical about God because he allows suffering in the world?
