Romans 8:31-39

 

Romans 8:31-39

Who…?

After telling us that God works all things for the good of those who love him, Paul puts all things in their proper place. Who can be against us? Who can bring an accusation that sticks against God’s elect? Who can condemn his people? Who can separate the people God loves from the love God gives?

People can try to do those things. We can feel like they’re succeeding. But in the end, they won’t and can’t.

  • Do you feel like someone is trying and/or succeeding at any of those things?

  • Be specific. What’s the opposition, accusation, condemnation, or separation?

  • With this passage in mind, answer the question: So what? What’s at risk in the end? And (maybe more importantly!) what isn’t at stake?

  • How does that help you live differently today?

Answering Our Complaint

To drive his point home, Paul quotes a Psalm in which Israel tells God to wake up, get up, and start helping them. (“Redeem us because of your faithful love!”) But no matter what might come against them - anyone, anything, anywhere, any time - they are more than conquerors through Jesus and inseparable from God’s love in Jesus.

  • Read Psalm 44. Why would Paul pick this song to quote in Romans 8?

  • Can you relate with the song in any way?

  • Would you feel comfortable saying (or singing!) those kinds of things to God? Why or why not?

  • How is the songwriter’s longing for redeeming love answered in Jesus?

  • The gospel may not remove opposition, but it changes the meaning we ascribe to it, the way we experience it, and who we think we have to be in the midst of it. What’s one specific way Romans 8 could free and/or empower you to face real opposition differently?

 
Not AshamedScott O'Donohoe