TEXT: Romans 8:18-25
Introduction
1. Suffering is _______________ in the In Between Time. v. 18a
“For I consider that the sufferings of this present time.”
the “already” and the “not yet” of God’s kingdom
1 Peter 4:12
2. Suffering is _______________ Compared to Glory. v. 18b
“…are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed in us.”
1 Peter 4:13
3. Suffering is Illustrated by _______________. vv. 19-23
“For the creation waits with eager longing for the revealing of the sons of God.”
1 John 3:2
4. Suffering Produces _______________ in a Future Glory. vv. 24-25
“For in this hope we were saved.”
Conclusion
Application Questions
1. Why is it so easy to lose hope when you are suffering?
2. Describe the tension in nature and in you between the “already” and the “not yet” of God’s kingdom?
3. How does suffering produce hope?
4. When you are suffering, what difference does it make to know God is for you?
