Click HERE to watch the accompanying Unashamed video devotional.

WEEK 9: 

Read: Romans Chapter 9

God loves Jews and Gentiles. God chose the Israelites and showered them with blessings. Jesus was Jewish as were His first followers. His name is the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. God had a plan starting with Abraham, to build and bless a nation that would be a blessing to all nations. God began with the Israelites, but the gospel is for everyone. There will be people from every nation and tribe in heaven through faith in Jesus. Paul was Jewish and prayed fervently for the salvation of His people. If possible, he would have given up his place in heaven for them because his love for them was so immense. The hardening of hearts with the Jews was a difficult reality for Paul. At the same time, he boldly and intentionally brought the good news of Jesus to the Gentiles. Hell is real, and God doesn’t want anyone to spend eternity there. God wants all to be saved and pursues us with a loyal love. God’s kingdom is unstoppable, and every day more people are putting their trust in Jesus. The population of heaven continues to rapidly increase.

Hope Point: God saves Jews and Gentiles who receive His gift of righteousness.

Reflection Questions:

1) How does Paul express his love for people who don’t follow Jesus yet? (Romans 9:1-5)
2) What is Paul teaching about God’s sovereignty? (Romans 9:6-15)
3) How would you explain God’s mercy to someone? (Romans 9:16-18)
4) What do you learn about Jews and Gentiles in this passage? (Romans 9:19-29)
5) What is the contrast in approaches to righteousness in these verses? (Romans 9:30-33)

Who can you share this Scripture with during the upcoming week?

Prayer:

Father God, Your plans will always prevail. Your thoughts and ways are far above ours. Thank You for giving us wisdom and revealing Your perspective. Thank You for Scripture that renews our minds. Thank You for the Holy Spirit, and the many ways You illuminate our understanding. We pray that we would be faithful to pass along what You have entrusted to us. We pray for courage to share the gospel boldly and frequently. We pray that we would be faithful in this generation. We ask this in Jesus’ holy name, amen.

Click HERE for sermon points, scripture used in the sermon, and printable Life Group questions.