Daily Readings (Page 301)

In the same passage, notice the repeated phrases “just as…, so also…” What do these comparisons highlight?

Verses12-17 speak of Adam and Jesus Christ. What impact did each have on the human race?

Paul uses the word “reconciliation” to describe what Christ’s death has achieved. Go to 2 Corinthians 5:18-20 to see what we are called to be and do.

Describe the work of Christ as seen in verses 6-11. What exactly has Christ done for us? How does this information impact you?

What words in Romans 5:6, 8 and 10 describe what we once were in God’s eyes? How do you feel being described in this way? How does the death of Jesus change this relationship?

Verses 3-5 describe a sequence that begins with suffering and ends with hope – with several stages in between. Do you see yourself in that sequence? (Note: “hope” is not unfounded optimism. Instead it is the blessed assurance of our future destiny and is based on God’s love, which is revealed to us by the Holy Spirit and objectively demonstrated to…

What are the two things Paul says we should rejoice in?  Why can we rejoice even in our suffering? How does this perspective change our response towards difficult/painful times?

After the first 4 chapters of Romans with its overwhelming picture of human sinfulness, the idea that we might have peace with God is powerful indeed. Is “peace with God” something you possess right now?

What is the difference between “works” in v9 and “good works” in v10? How successful do you think you would be if you had to work for your salvation?

“Ceremonies and rituals serve as reminders of our faith. They are not important in themselves and we should not think that they give us any special merit before God.”