Romans 5:1-21
1) The Bible is not a self-help book, it is a Christ centered book that encourages us to depend on the finished work of Christ and on the guidance of the Holy Spirit.
a) Suffering/adversity is a tool the Holy Spirit uses to produce perseverance, righteousness, character, and hope for the future (11 Corinthians 4: 16-18).
b) God has poured out His love into our hearts through the indwelling of the Holy Spirit to comfort us in our struggles (John 15: 26-27).
c) God uses trials to discipline us and to train us in all righteousness (Hebrews 12: 6-11).
2) Biblical Christians obtain a Godly benefit package by placing their faith in Jesus Christ.
a) We have been freed from the curse of the Law and eternal damnation. We have been justified. Our sin record has been cleared.
b) We have been reconciled in our relationship to God and He imputes righteousness to us by faith.
c) We have the indwelling power of the Holy Spirit and the mind of Christ.
3) The benefits package of Christ does us no good if we do not learn how to use it.
a) Christians can be content in all circumstances. We can obtain peace and joy in the Holy Spirit (Romans 14:17) (Philippians 4:12).
b) You alone are responsible for your spiritual maturity (II Corinthians 5: 10).
c) Christian discipleship requires us to seek out spiritual peers, mentors and trainees (Colossians 1:28-29).
Discussion Question: Can you describe how your faith in Christ was strengthened through a season of adversity?
Creator, Researcher and Host: Rob Fell
Production, Editor and Cover Art: Susan Cofer Fell
Contact: susan@susancoferfell.com
