1.

In verses 1-4 the apostle Paul explains why there is no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.  What does it mean to be in Christ Jesus? (John 14:20, 17:21-23; Eph 5:31-32)  Why is there no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus?

2. 

Verses 5-17 assume that there are only two possibilities in life: the life that is controlled by sinful nature; and the life that is controlled by the Spirit.  Who decides whether you live according to the sinful nature or according to the Spirit, you or someone else?  How do you end up being “controlled” by the sinful nature or by the Spirit? (5-8)  What is the outcome of these two options? (13, 17)  What does this suggest about how the Lord God created us to live our lives? (Genesis 1:26-28)

3.

Verses 18-25 describe the hope a believer has in Jesus, and verses 26-27 depict the way the Spirit helps the saints as they wait for this hope to become a reality for them.  Compare verses 18-27 with verses 28-30.  In verses 18-27 we see expressions like, “we know” (22, 28), “we do not know” (26), and “God foreknew” (29).  What do we know?  What don’t we know?  Who did God know in advance? 

4.

In verses 31-39 Paul talks about the love of Christ and of God.  How do we know that God loves us and is for us?  Why is the conviction of God’s love important for us as believers?