Week 9

Christian Living

Read: Romans 8 & 12

Paul tells us to live according to the Spirit; not to live according to the flesh. Sin turns us in a
downward spiral. First we exchange the truth about God for a lie, then worship the creature
rather than the Creator (Rom.1:25). Out of a polluted well comes polluted water. Corrupt
thinking and acting destroy relationships and ourselves. Our lives deteriorate until finally we not
only do evil deeds but we applaud others who do them as well (Rom.1:32). We CAN change, by
being in harmony with God. To be righteous doesnt mean to be pure or good; it means to be
in harmony. In right relationship both with God and with neighbor. Peace through Christ and his
indwelling Spirit gives assurance to every Christian that all is well. Love casts out fear and
brings peace.

1- In your own words, write what it means to be justified by faith:

2- What are three elements of the Christian life? (Example:Unity in the body of Christ; being
humble)

Read: 1 Corinthians 12 & 13

3-How do you perceive yourself growing in love?

4- To believe in resurrection means, in part, that God always has new options, fresh
possibilities. Describe a time in your life when you thought you had run out of options:

5- Do you believe God provided new options? What were they?

6- Weve read about right Christian living and love. How are you currently harming your mind?
(With prejudice, suspicion, self-centeredness)
We as Christians dont live by rules (like the Pharisees), but in a relationship with Christ. In that
relationship we honor Christ by service. Because we love Him, we do. This trait grows out of a
believers heart, out of the indwelling presence of Jesus, the Holy Spirit.

Law= Obligation out of duty. This can bring resentment.

Faith= Obedience out of love for Christ and his followers.

7- Which of these (Law/Faith) perspectives influences you more?

Holy means set apart for God. Holy has the same root as words like: whole, wholesome,
holistic, heal, health, & hallow. To be holy is to be whole, clean, healthy, harmonious.

8- How are you holy?