Pentecost Romans 8:14-17

Ancient Lens

What can we learn from the historical context?

Paul’s Letter to the Church in Rome

The Apostle Paul was wrote to a diverse group of Christians he had never met. As believers in Rome, they gathered in a cosmopolitan city, representing multiple backgrounds themselves, while living surrounded by a multitude of worldviews.

Some of these Christians had previously been Jews from the Diaspora and would have been familiar with the Jewish customs and behaviors. Meanwhile, other Christians were Gentiles, or non-Jews before coming to faith in Jesus. They carried a completely different set of assumptions. All these Christians were surrounded by people living out other worldviews as well.…

1. What is a gift you’ve received that changed your life? How did receiving it make you feel?

2. What is this “Spirit of Adoption” Paul talks about in Romans 8:15, and how is it different from the spirit of slavery mentioned earlier?

3. What is the significance of calling God “Abba” or “Father?” How does it influence of understanding of God’s character?

4. How does the Holy Spirit “bear witness” that we are…