The Tension of Redemption - Discussion Questions
March 11, 2023

INTRODUCTION
We learned in this weekends message that there is an equation when it comes to God’s redemption. It’s this…SOVEREIGNTY + SURRENDER = REDEMPTION. Ephesians 2:8-9 says this, “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it it the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast.” We also heard that life is challenging, filled with both joy and sadness, victory and failures. How do we navigate this mix of emotions and situations? We do it by trusting in God’s faithfulness, His goodness (Psalm 107:1) and His plan for our lives.

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

  1. Joe’s story is a mixture of triumph and tragedy, victory and defeat. We all get knocked down in life, the key is to get up and keep moving (Prov. 24:16).
    Share a time when you were knocked down and how the Lord helped you get up.

  2. Where in your life with God have you experienced surrender? What areas do you still need to give to Him, to surrender?

  3. When you’re faced with difficulties, what is your initial response? Where do you need to grow or how have you grown in this area?

  4. Romans 8:28 says, “And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.” It doesn’t say that all things ARE good, but that if will allow Him, God can take even the very difficult things and work them for good. Where or how have you seen that played out in your life? In the lives of others?

  5. Where is your life have you experienced the redemption and freedom of Jesus?

  6. God can and will use everything that happens in our lives…the good, the bad, and the ugly. The key is to allow Him to use it. How can you intentionally change your attitude or perspective when it comes to difficulties or struggles in your life?

MOVING FORWARD
In the natural, in this world’s system, surrender can lead to bondage. But in God’s kingdom it’s the exact opposite. When I surrender to Jesus it always brings freedom! Galatians 3:13 says, “Christ has redeemed us from the curse of law by becoming a curse for us, for is is written: ‘Cursed is everyone who hangs on a tree.’” Because of the Cross and the redemption of Jesus, we are no longer bound under the curse, but we are free to live in grace and we get to experience true freedom! And remember, Jesus specializes in fixing broken things and making them better than before. He’s the Ultimate Fixer Upper! He is the Master Redeemer!