Study Questions for Groups
By Michael C. Mack
1. When and how did you sense God’s unconditional and saving love this week?
2. In what areas of your life do you find it easiest to obey God? In what areas is it most difficult?
Ask two people to read aloud Romans 2:1-16 one after the other, preferably from different Bible versions. Then ask a third person to restate the passage in their own words in a minute or less.
3. What would you change or add to that restatement of the passage?
4. What do you learn about God from this passage?
5. What do you learn about humans?
6. Let’s dig deeper into the passage:
• Why should we as Christ followers refrain from passing judgment on one another?
• What comparisons and contrasts did Paul make between Jews and Gentiles?
• How is God’s judgment described?
• What consequences face people who pass judgment on others?
• Most Bible interpreters believe the Scripture talks of two coming judgments on humans. In the first, the “great white throne judgment,” unbelievers (those whose names are not in the book of life) are judged by their works (Revelation 20:11-15). In the second, the “judgment seat of Christ,” those who are saved are judged by their faithfulness (obedience) to Christ to determine their heavenly rewards (2 Corinthians 5:9-10). How does this background help you understand Romans 2:5-16?
7. What do you learn about obeying God and the rewards for that?
8. Take a moment to reflect on God’s “kindness, forbearance and patience” (v. 4) for yourself. After a short time of contemplation, discuss how you would tell another person about God’s kindness that can lead them to repentance.
9. Based on our study and discussion, complete this sentence: “This week, I will . . .”
10. In what area of your life do you need God’s kindness, forbearance, and patience this week?
For Next Week: Read and reflect on Romans 4:1-5, 13-25. You can also read next week’s supplemental texts as well as the Study and Application sections as part of your personal study.
Author: Christian Standard
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