How many people assume they’re good with God because they grew up in a Christian home or go to church each week? In Romans 2, Paul explains that it’s not religious traditions that matter, but a true transformation of the heart.

God has invited us to live fully aware of our sinfulness, and at the same time fully aware of God’s grace. To live with both realities protects us from self-righteousness and allows us to live out the true way of Jesus.

God designed us to do life in a certain way, but He gives the decision whether or not to do so to us. When we choose our desires and abandon God and His design, we miss out on the fullness of life God has for us.

God gave us His creation so we could know Him. Yet, instead of worshiping the Creator, Paul writes in Romans that people worshiped “idols made to look like mere people and birds and animals and reptiles.” How do we do this today? And how can we stop? Romans 1: 20-25

In Romans 1, we read God is angry because, despite making Himself obvious, people choose selfishness over what is self-evident, godlessness instead of experiencing God’s fullness. How would trading in our lies for God’s truth change our lives?

We need to be rescued from our sin, but we are too sinful to rescue ourselves. What’s the solution? The Gospel. The good news is for everyone—everyone who believes in Jesus can be saved. And so, everyone needs to hear it. We need to live unashamed.

We try to impress but sin in secret and are undeserving of love. What’s the solution? The Gospel. The good news is God loves us unconditionally and unreservedly. That’s why He sent Jesus. Instead of being ashamed, we can be confident and passionate.

Loneliness is an epidemic as so many people feel unincluded. What’s the solution? The Gospel. The good news means that “you are included” and “have been called to belong to Jesus Christ.” When we get invited, we’re no longer ashamed but excited.

No matter your age or relationship status, we all need friends who encourage us and point us toward Jesus. Do you have friends like that? If not, how do you find them? Let’s learn how to find community together.

Jesus didn’t come for the righteous, He came for sinners—for people in need. That’s all of us! How can we share the hope of Jesus with everyone we meet?