Growth Group Discussion Guide “Growing Upward, Inward, Outward, and Forward” For the Week of February 1, 2015 Romans 3:21-26 21 But now a righteousness from God, apart from law, has been made known, to which the Law and the Prophets testify. 22 This righteousness from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe. There is no difference, Sermon Outline 23 for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,   24 and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.  25God presented him as a sacrifice of atonement, through faith in his blood. He did this to demonstrate his justice, because in his forbearance he had left the sins committed beforehand unpunished— 26 he did it to demonstrate his justice at the present time, so as to be just and the one who justifies those who have faith in Jesus. Romans 3:21-26 is the heart of the gospel message. After explaining in great detail that all humanity stands before God guilty in sin, Paul now explains that God has made a way for us to reunite with Him in righteousness. This righteousness cannot be earned or worked for, it is a gift of God’s grace through faith in Jesus. WELCOME – Getting to Know Each Other Better   What is the best news you have ever received? What does the word “grace” mean to you? WORD - Applying Scripture to Our Lives ATTENTION: Please think through these ahead of time, so when you get to your Growth Group you will be prepared to discuss. 1. How have the last few sermons about the bad news made you feel? 2. How do you feel when you read the words “But now” at the beginning of 3:21? 3. How would you summarize the Good News? 4. What does it mean to have faith? 5. Who is this righteousness from God for? 6. How does God’s love/grace impact you & the way you live? 7. How do our lives affect His glory? 8. Who do you need to tell this Good News to? 9. How can we grow in our love and appreciation for God in such a way that leads to a desire to live to glorify Him? WITNESS - Prayer Concerns from my Growth Group:  Who has God placed in your life who does not know Christ?  How can we pray for your spiritual growth tonight?  What other prayer concerns do you have?