Based on the sermon summary and transcript provided, here is a Bible study discussion guide.
Bible ReadingRomans 4:1-5, 20-25 (KJV)1 What shall we say then that Abraham our father, as pertaining to the flesh, hath found?
2 For if Abraham were justified by works, he hath whereof to glory; but not before God.
3 For what saith the scripture? Abraham believed God, and it was counted unto him for righteousness.
4 Now to him that worketh is the reward not reckoned of grace, but of debt.
5 But to him that worketh not, but believeth on him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness.
20 He staggered not at the promise of God through unbelief; but was strong in faith, giving glory to God;
21 And being fully persuaded that, what he had promised, he was able also to perform.
22 And therefore it was imputed to him for righteousness.
23 Now it was not written for his sake alone, that it was imputed to him;
24 But for us also, to whom it shall be imputed, if we believe on him that raised up Jesus our Lord from the dead;
25 Who was delivered for our offences, and was raised again for our justification.
Observation questions- According to verses 4-5, what is the fundamental difference between a reward that is "reckoned of grace" versus one that is "of debt"?
- What specific action did Abraham take that resulted in righteousness being "counted" or "imputed" to him (vv. 3, 22)?
- Verses 20-21 describe Abraham's state of mind regarding God's promise. What two specific attitudes did he hold?
- According to the sermon, what does the word "imputed" mean in a practical sense, relating to a transaction we don't earn? [18:11]
Interpretation questions- Why do you think Paul uses the financial term "imputed" or "counted" to describe how we receive righteousness? What does this reveal about the nature of salvation?
- The sermon states that our "carnal nature is enmity with God" and our own righteousness is like "filthy rags." [20:34] How does this truth help us understand why we need a righteousness that is given to us rather than one we achieve?
- Abraham was "fully persuaded" that God could perform what He promised, even when his own body was "dead" (v. 19). What are the common obstacles that make it difficult for people to become "fully persuaded" of God's promises today?
- The sermon mentions that the promises of God act as "practical fuel for mission." How do the promises listed in verses 24-25 specifically fuel our perseverance in evangelism, especially when facing a skeptical culture?
Application questions- Righteousness is imputed, not earned. This reorients behavior so that right living flows from being declared right, not from striving to earn approval. What is one area of your life where you find yourself striving to perform for God's approval instead of living from the place of right standing He has already given you?
- God’s promises function like a ledger of commitments that fuel persistence. Holding to promises reframes setbacks as temporary. [30:05] Which specific promise from God are you needing to hold onto this week to reframe a current challenge or setback?
- Every person receives a measure of faith—an initial capacity to trust God that requires cultivation. [38:01] What does your faith measure feel like right now: a small seed, a growing plant, or something else? What is one practical step you can take this week to actively cultivate and use the faith you've been given?
- Authentic worship issues from the conviction that God has intervened on one’s behalf; it cannot be manufactured by etiquette. [41:29] How can you move from a place of "golf clap" worship to a response that truly flows from being overwhelmed by what God has done for you?
- The narrative urges renewed boldness: reengage public faith, practice tangible evangelism. [35:17] Who is one person in your everyday path (a coworker, neighbor, cashier) you feel prompted to simply ask, "Do you go to church?" or "How can I pray for you?"
- Prayer walks and simple conversations serve as means by which the imputed reality becomes visible. [08:57] Is there a specific street, neighborhood, or public space where you feel led to take a prayer walk this month? What would you pray for as you walk?
- A coming surge of revival appears near when faith and obedience converge. What would it look like for you to "live from what God has assigned" in your account this week, expecting doors to open for healing, testimony, and deeper encounter?