Session 9

Chapter 9: God’s Sovereignty and Mercy

From Romans Study

Watch Video  

The One Thing: God is sovereign in salvation, holding His divine plans and our human freedom in perfect tension.

Intro

As we explored the heights and depths of God’s love in Chapter 8, we found encouragement in the security of our salvation. We also learned that we are “more than conquerors” and that God is working all things for the good of those who love Him. Throughout the entire chapter, we found comfort and assurance in the unstoppable love and purpose God has for His children.

As beautiful as Chapter 8 is, it raises a really important question. What about God’s chosen people, the Israelites? Are they no longer part of God’s plan? Paul expresses “great sorrow and unceasing anguish” for his Jewish family who have rejected Jesus. In Chapter 9 we will begin to explore God’s sovereignty and how it relates to salvation. As you read, look for the way Paul trusts that God will remain faithful to His promises as he invites us to trust in God’s good plan for His people.

Study Questions

1. How does Paul’s deep anguish for his own family inform his teaching in this chapter?
2. What were the advantages of being Jewish? If the gospel is open to everyone, what was the benefit of the law, circumcision, and the covenant?
3. Why wasn’t being Jewish enough for salvation?
4. How might the Jewish believers in Rome have felt about Paul’s message to the Gentile believers?
5. What does it mean to have faith in the way Paul describes it?
6. If faith is an internal matter, why does our outward behavior still matter?
7. How does Paul’s instruction in this chapter help unify Jews and Gentiles?
8. What is Paul saying about the sovereignty of God in salvation?
9. How does Paul hold God’s sovereignty and human freedom in tension?

In this week’s video, we tackle a difficult question: What about people who haven’t accepted Jesus? Using the imagery of a potter and clay, Paul explains that we can trust God’s design and mercy even when His plans exceed our understanding.

Discussion Questions

1. How do you handle the tension between God being in control and your own responsibility to make choices?
2. Paul had "great sorrow" for people who didn’t know Jesus. Who are you currently carrying that sorrow for?
3. What would you say people don’t take advantage of when it comes to their faith? What would others say you aren’t taking advantage of?
4. How can you operate as “the chosen of God”? How should others perceive you? 
5. Reflect on your study this week. Are there any specific questions you want to discuss or insights you would like to share?