GOSPEL - Knowledge does not save

SCRIPTURE

Matthew 3:8 | Prove by the way you live that you have repented of your sins and turned to God.

James 2:17 | So you see, faith by itself is not enough. Unless it produces good deeds, it is dead and useless.

Romans 1:16-23 | 16 For I am not ashamed of this Good News about Christ. It is the power of God at work, saving everyone who believes—the Jew first and also the Gentile. 17 This Good News tells us how God makes us right in his sight. This is accomplished from start to finish by faith. As the Scriptures say, It is through faith that a righteous person has life. 18 But God shows his anger from heaven against all sinful, wicked people who suppress the truth by their wickedness. 19 They know the truth about God because he has made it obvious to them. 20 For ever since the world was created, people have seen the earth and sky. Through everything God made, they can clearly see his invisible qualities, his eternal power and divine nature. So they have no excuse for not knowing God. 21 Yes, they knew God, but they would not worship him as God or even give him thanks. And they began to think up foolish ideas of what God was like. As a result, their minds became dark and confused. 22 Claiming to be wise, they instead became utter fools. 23 And instead of worshiping the glorious, ever living God, they worshiped idols made to look like mere people and birds and animals and reptiles.

DISCUSSION

1. According to Romans 1:16, The gospel is the power of God for salvation to all who ______. What is the difference between believing and knowing?
2. Do the people described in Romans 1:18-23 know about God? Why are they not saved? What does verse 21 say was missing in their actions?
3. Do you live as someone who knows about Jesus and salvation or someone who truly believes in (and has experienced) salvation through Jesus?
4. How does true belief (or faith) in Jesus impact someones actions (or works)?