Salvation
July 16, 2023
We use the word “saved” to refer to everything from someone recovered in a heroic rescue operation to the money we save through a discount code. But when the Bible talks about being “saved,” what exactly does that mean? What are we saved from? Who saves us, and how do they do it? Join us for part 7 of Essentials, where we will learn that salvation is not about what we do but what Jesus has done.
Essential # 5
Salvation is by God’s __________ through __________ in __________ __________.
Passage
Ephesians 2:1-10
Practice
Stop asking what ______ ____________ ____ to be saved, and embrace what __________ has ______________ ________ for your salvation.
Small Group Questions
Use this outline for personal reflection, as a couples or family devotion, or with a small group.
HANGOUT
Describe a time when you did something you swore you would never do.
HEAR
Read Romans 7:1-6
- What does the law do to those who live in the “realm of the flesh”?
- Can you give an example of how the law arouses us to sin?
- How do we escape the “realm of the flesh” and die to the law?
Read Romans 7:7-13
- Is ignorance of the law an excuse to violate the law? Why or why not?
- What opportunity did the law afford sin? What does sin do with that opportunity?
Read Romans 7:14-25
- Can you relate to Paul’s problem? Are there things you want to do that you do not and things you do not want to do that you keep on doing? Do you think this is a universal problem? Why or why not?
- Paul says that if he does what he doesn’t want to do, it is no longer he who does it, but sin living in him. What does this mean? Does it excuse our sinful behavior? Why or why not?
- What is Paul’s problem, and how is he ultimately rescued from it?
HUDDLE
Are you battling a stronghold of sin in your life? What is it, and what power is it exercising over you? Talk about it, invite accountability, and take time to pray together.
Daily Readings
Our summer Bible reading plan will focus on passages related to our essential beliefs. As you read, invite the Holy Spirit to affirm what is essential. How will this essential affect your life today?
- Day 1: Mark 2
- Day 2: John 3
- Day 3: Luke 23
- Day 4: Romans 7
- Day 5: Ephesians 1
- Day 6: Ephesians 2
- Day 7: Titus 3
Think Deeper
- What is required of a person in need of rescue?
- Do most people believe they need to be saved? Why or why not?
- Do you believe Jesus is the only way to be rescued from sin? Why or why not?
Suggested Resources
Essential Christianity, by J.D. Greer
Mere Christianity, by C.S. Lewis
Basic Christianity, by John Stott
Check out these and other suggested books at https://bit.ly/AspireSMB