GSCC Small Group 05-24-07

8Remember Jesus Christ, raised from the dead, descended from David. This is my gospel, 9for which I am suffering even to the point of being chained like a criminal. But God's word is not chained. 10Therefore I endure everything for the sake of the elect, that they too may obtain the salvation that is in Christ Jesus, with eternal glory.

11Here is a trustworthy saying:
   If we died with him,
      we will also live with him;
12if we endure,
      we will also reign with him.
   If we disown him,
      he will also disown us;
13if we are faithless,
      he will remain faithful,
      for he cannot disown himself.

1. Can you remember when you first believe in Jesus? What was the reason you first believed in Jesus?
2. Why did Paul need to endure hardship for God’s elect? (salvation is obtained through preaching and witnessing of Jesus to God’s elect)
3. Read V11 and 12a. Use your own words to explain the verses. (If we share Christ’s death, we share his life. If we suffer with him, we share glory with him)
4. Read V12b and 13; note that God’s is faithful in keeping His promises and fulfilling His warnings. What happens if God is not faithful in either case?
5. Do you feel God’s Word is “chained” today? Knowing that God’s word can not be chained, what comfort does it bring and how my life can be different?