Today Pastor John continues our summer series through the book of Romans. In chapters 1-7, Paul has laid out lots of deep theological truths for Christians to receive, reflect on, and believe. In chapter 8, he is now helping believers understand what it means to live out their faith, especially in times of suffering and pain. The metaphor the Apostle uses for this suffering is one of groaning. May the Holy Spirit allow us to comprehend the hope we have in the resurrected Savior, Jesus Christ. 

Romans 8:18-30

18 For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us. 19 For the creation waits with eager longing for the revealing of the sons of God. 20 For the creation was subjected to futility, not willingly, but because of Him who subjected it, in hope 21 that the creation itself will be set free from its bondage to corruption and obtain the freedom of the glory of the children of God. 22 For we know that the whole creation has been groaning together in the pains of childbirth until now. 23 And not only the creation, but we ourselves, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for adoption as sons, the redemption of our bodies. 24 For in this hope we were saved. Now hope that is seen is not hope. For who hopes for what he sees? 25 But if we hope for what we do not see, we wait for it with patience. 26 Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit Himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words. 27 And He who searches hearts knows what is the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints according to the will of God. 28 And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to His purpose. 29 For those whom He foreknew He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son, in order that He might be the firstborn among many brothers. 30 And those whom He predestined He also called, and those whom He called He also justified, and those whom He justified He also glorified.

For Adult Homes & Groups

1. Describe what you are most focused on these days to give you hope in the midst of so much societal upheaval. 

2. Read Romans 8:18-30. Were there any words, phrases, or truths 

that stood out as you read the text? What does this text teach you about God? 

3. What does Paul tell us about ourselves? Nature? And even the Holy Spirit? 

4. What is the hope Paul is referring to? (See verses 23-25.) 

5. Close in prayer, especially praying for people you know who are going through extreme times of suffering, sickness, and struggles. 

For Families with Kids

1. Read Romans 8:18-30 together.

2. Look up and read Genesis 3:17. What do we see is cursed because of Adam and Eve’s sin? Fill in the space: the __________

3. Read Romans 8:23. Who else groans?

   ____ _____________ groan _________________ , waiting eagerly

4. What are we eagerly waiting for? The ___________ of our ________.

5. How do we wait (vv24-25)? With _________

6. Who helps us while we wait (v26)? The _______ ___________

7. We belong to Jesus, and He gives us the Holy Spirit to be with us, help us pray, and give us hope. Read John 14 together, then take time as a family to thank Jesus for always keeping His promises.