Romans Chapter 8 – Overcoming with the Holy Spirit series

Aim: To be overcomers in this life

Introduction – Our Predicament/Our Human Condition

Read Romans 7:14-25

What do you think Paul is actually saying here? How would you describe the struggle he is sharing and how do you relate to it? What things does he say that you can say too?

Some interesting phrases from this passage are listed below. Can you comment on them and explain their meaning. What do they mean to you? What don’t you understand about these phrases and this passage as a whole?

‘the law is spiritual’  v14 (do you follow Paul’s logic in v16?)

‘I am carnal’     v14

‘sold under sin’  v14

‘in my members’ v23

‘I delight in the law of God according to the inward man’  v23

Part One – The Great Things We Can Overcome in this Life

Before we look at how Paul teaches us to be victorious over this predicament/human condition we find ourselves in, we will look for the things he tells us we can overcome.

Preparation

Read all of Romans 8:1-34 and find what things it says we can overcome. Mark the verse(s) next to each (there are at least 8 things).

e.g. condemnation (v.1)

Share a little about which ones are especially important to you to overcome. For example, if you struggle with condemnation, say ‘I struggle with condemnation, and then explain what you mean. Only share what you feel comfortable sharing. Other group members may be able to encourage you.

From v35-39 what else would you add to the list of things that Paul is saying we can overcome? Share again if any of these have special significance to you. Other group members to encourage.

Next time we will look at how Paul says we can be overcomers.

Part Two – How To Be Overcomers

Verse 1-4 

What is it that makes us free from condemnation and the law of sin and death?

Verse 5-8 

What does ‘walking in the Spirit’ mean or involve?

What is the effect of walking in the Spirit?

What are the consequences of not so doing?

Verse 9-11

How important is it to be sure we have the Spirit of God and Christ according to these verses? In discussing this, point out what, according to these verses, are the benefits of having the Holy Spirit.

Can you give Bible verses that show us how to receive the Holy Spirit?

Verse 12-14

Is receiving the Holy Spirit one time in your life enough to ensure you are God’s child for eternity? Discuss.

What does it mean to be led by the Holy Spirit? How does one follow the Holy Spirit? (this question will be dealt with in depth)

Verse 15-18

What benefits of being close to God do you find in these verses?

Verses 19-23

What is this saying about the state of the creation?

Part Three – Encouragement For Being Great Overcomers

Verses 24-39

The remainder of the chapter provides much to encourage us to persevere in the faith. Read it carefully and contemplate it, looking for all the forms of encouragement found there. Can you share a few things that you find encouraging in these verses that will help you to be an overcomer?