Risking Acceptance

Romans 3:21-25; 14-15:13

“Accept one another, then, just as Christ has accepted you, in order to bring praise to God” (Romans 15:7).

The Message: God Accepted You

– We have all sinned and fallen short (Rm. 3:23)

AND

– We are all justified freely by his grace (Rm. 3:24)

– Bottom Line: God died for us as we really are

The Application: Accept One Another

– 2 Sides of the Same Coin:

                   - Risk accepting others just as they are

                                      – Give grace

                    - Risk being accepted by others for who you really are

                                      – Receive grace

Risking Acceptance: Discussion Questions

(Romans 3.21-25; 14-15.13)

• What is the difference between the acceptance that Paul is describing and the “lesser” acceptance that we all often experience?

• Read Romans 14.1-15.13
  • What do you find most surprising about Paul’s response?
  • Why do you think Paul does not simply force his conclusions on everyone? (Hint: What is the difference between unity and uniformity)
  • Pastor Jay said the command to accept one another entailed 2 responses - 2 sides of the same coin.
    • Explain in your own words why the two need to go together.
    • Which one is more difficult for you, accepting others as they are, or letting others accept you as you are?
  • What are some areas in church life today that Paul might classify as “disputable matters?”
    • What makes it hard in these situations for each side to accept the other?
    • What would it look like to apply Paul’s advice to these situations?
    • Explain how applying Paul’s advice demonstrates the gospel.