5/18/25 - Small Group Questions
May 18, 2025

Small Group Guide: Slavery to Righteousness (Romans 6:15-23)

Key Takeaways:
1. Everyone serves something - we are either slaves to sin or slaves to righteousness.
2. Believers are now slaves to righteousness and should live accordingly.
3. Focus on the fruit of what/who we serve rather than a false notion of freedom.

Discussion Questions:

  1. The pastor mentioned that “willing slavery is still slavery.” How does this concept challenge our understanding of freedom, especially in relation to our spiritual lives?

  2. Reflect on the phrase “obedient from the heart to the standard of teaching.” What does this mean to you practically in your Christian walk?

  3. How does the idea of being “conformed to the image of a person (Jesus)” rather than just following rules change your perspective on Christian living?

  4. The sermon emphasized the importance of discipleship and community. How has your involvement in Christian community shaped your spiritual growth?

  5. Discuss the trajectories Paul describes - from impurity to more lawlessness, and from righteousness to sanctification. How have you observed these trajectories in your own life or in others?

  6. How does viewing Jesus as a servant who embraced restrictions for our salvation impact your willingness to serve and obey God?

  7. The pastor stated, “Freedom is not the absence of restrictions, but embracing the right ones.” How does this statement challenge or affirm your view of Christian freedom?

Practical Applications:

  1. Identify an area in your life where you might be reverting to “slavery to sin.” What’s one step you can take this week to move towards obedience to Christ in that area?

  2. Commit to deepening your involvement in Christian community beyond Sunday services. This could mean joining a Bible study, finding a mentor, or intentionally discipling someone else.

  3. Take time this week to reflect on the “fruit” of your current choices and behaviors. Are they leading to sanctification or away from it?

  4. Meditate on Philippians 2:5-11 this week, considering how you can emulate Christ’s servant attitude in your daily life.