Session 6

Chapter 6: Dead to Sin, Alive to Christ

From Romans Study

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The One Thing: We are no longer slaves to sin. We are called to be slaves to righteousness, which leads to true freedom.

Intro

In Chapter 5, we celebrated God’s abundant grace as we learned that “where sin increased, grace abounded all the more.” We found hope in the fact that while Adam brought death into the world, Jesus brought a “free gift” of life and righteousness that far outweighs our own sin. We left last week resting in the peace that comes from being reconciled to God.

But there is a natural question in response to Paul’s words. If grace abounds when we sin, should we just keep sinning? Paul answers this with a clear, “By no means!” Chapter 6 reminds us of our new identity, using baptism as a clear illustration of how we are united with Christ. As you read, look for the distinction between being a “slave to sin” and a “slave to righteousness.” 

Study Questions

1. How does Romans 6:1-5 describe our baptism into Jesus Christ?
2. In the Roman world, what were the benefits of citizenship? Why was this distinction important? Feel free to use a simple online search here.
3. Using verses 6-14, list the characteristics of a believer who is a citizen of heaven.
4. Which of these characteristics do you feel you embody naturally, and which do you struggle with most?
5. What is one practical way you can "present the members of your body" to God this week instead of to sin?
6. What falsehood is Paul addressing in verses 15-18?
7. Paul says we all have a master, either sin or God. Why is having a master actually a good thing for humans?
8. What are the results of living under each of these two masters?
9. What areas of your life are currently under the master of sin that you need to let God lead?

In this video, we learn that our salvation means we are dead to sin and alive in Christ. While we may still have habits or sin from our old life, the power of sin has been stripped of its right to rule over us. 

Discussion Questions

1. Have you been baptized? If so, how do you understand baptism differently now than you did before?
2. What does it mean to consider yourself dead to sin? How does that mental shift change your daily behavior?
3. Why do habits from the "old country" (sin) still feel so natural even after we’ve moved to the "new country" (grace)?
4. What does it look like practically not to drive to the old house on autopilot this week?
5. How does knowing sin has lost its right to rule help you resist a specific temptation you’re facing?
6. Reflect on your study this week. Are there any specific questions you want to discuss or insights you would like to share?