The following outline and discussion questions have been prepared to accompany the sermon on August 19/20, “Unconditional Intervention” (Romans 9:14–23). The questions can be used for discussion in small groups or for personal reflection. 

Outline

• Unconditional Election (vv.1–23)
• Pictures of Salvation (Darkness to Light; Deadness to Life; Bondage to Liberty)

Main Point: God’s choice to save is unconditional; it does not depend upon something we will do or choose or accomplish.

Discussion Questions

• Why was God’s choice of Isaac and Jacob unconditional—not based on something they did or chose or accomplished? (vv. 12–13)
• Why is God’s unconditional choice fair; i.e., why is unconditional election not unjust? (vv. 9:14–18)
• Why is it false to say that God cannot find fault with those who reject him, because he did not choose them? (vv. 19–21)
  God could choose to save everyone. Why doesn’t he? (vv. 22–23)

Application Questions

• Coming into this sermon, what were your thoughts about God’s sovereignty? Were your thoughts reinforced or challenged? How should we respond to the truth that God’s choice to save us is not based on us, but upon his sheer mercy?
• Think through the implications of God’s unconditional election. Does it make our actions meaningless in parenting or evangelism or missions? Why should we do these things (we should do them!), if God has already planned everything?
• In this message, what truths landed on you that you need to share with others in your life? How can you share these truths? Devote it to prayer!

Prayer Focus
Pray for a grace to cherish God’s unconditional love and election. Pray for its proper effect of humility and thanksgiving.