Romans 15:1-13

Small Group Questions

At this point, we have been in small groups for 4 weeks. I didnt do any silly icebreakers this week, but feel free to take some time if you need to.

Icebreaker

True or False: The gospel changes how we live? Why? Really push them on this one. They hate to think, but at this point in Romans, they should be beginning to think through how the gospel changes things

How did you live differently this week because of the gospel?

Tonight we are talking about the strong bearing for the weak. You may even want to read or get someone to read Romans 15:1-13

Moving toward the text:

Have you ever had to help anyone through something that they weren’t strong enough to do? (whether emotional, spiritual, or physical) Can you share?

How did that effect you? (did it help you or hurt you?)

Why do you think it helps us to help others?

Lets look at the text:

1. What do you think Paul means in verse 1 when he says those who are strong have an obligation to bear with the failings of the weak, and not to please ourselves?

2. What part does the bible play in your life when it comes to helping and serving others? Romans 15:4

3. Is it possible for christians to get along and build each other up without the help of God? Why or why not? Romans 15:5-7

4. Verse 13 feels a little different from the rest of the passage but is very relivant. What part does the Holy Spirit actually play in helping you “abound in hope?” If you dont have an answer for this, what does that practically mean for your life?

5. What changes do you need to make this week to walk by the Holy Spirit and the word of God to abound in hope and serve others by putting their needs above my pleasure?