Download Small Group Study Notes HERE
As we conclude our series on Gemstones, we find the glimmering beauty of each bound up the Paul’s description of the Gospel. In a world where we face temptations and trials, the love God as expressed in the cross of Jesus Christ stands alone as a beacon of hope, an anchor for our souls, and a call to recreation in Christ.
Observations:
- 1-2: Justification leads to Glorification
- 3-5: Perseverance is the work of the Spirit
- 6-8: Christ died for the ungodly
- At our greatest point of need
- At our greatest vulnerability
- At our greatest offense to God
Conclusion:
What does the gospel mean to us?
- Confident Resurrection
- Courageous Determination
- Powerful Substitution
- Unshakable Affection
Summary
Because of God’s love shown to us in Jesus’ substitutionary death we can rejoice in sufferings because the present indwelling of the Holy Spirit gives us hope for our future glorification in Christ.
Application:
Rejoice!
Romans 5:6
“Christ died for the ungodly.”
Romans 8:30
“And those he predestined, he also called; those he called, he also justified; those he justified, he also glorified.”
Colossians 3:3-4
“For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God. When Christ, who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with him in glory.”
2 Corinthians 13:5-6
“Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves. Do you not realize that Christ Jesus is in you—unless, of course, you fail the test? And I trust that you will discover that we have not failed the test.”
Romans 15:13
“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”