Sermon Study Guide

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Maranatha Bible Church

Chicago

Sermon Study Guide

Progressive Sanctification, Part 1: Living is Christ & Dying is Gain | Romans 8:12-13 | Mark Griffin

Pastor Mark Griffin|Sunday, May 4, 2025

Scripture References

Romans 8:12-13Galatians 5:16-24Romans 8:29-30Romans 6:19-22James 2:14-17Ephesians 2:8-10Romans 6:1-152 Corinthians 3:18Romans 12:1-2Psalms 16:11Philippians 1:21Ezekiel 2:1-2

Sermon Summary

This sermon explores the vital doctrine of progressive sanctification, defining it as the supernatural transformation of a believer into Christ's image. Mark Griffin emphasizes that while justification is by faith alone, true saving faith inevitably produces a life of holiness.

Key Takeaways

1Sanctification is the supernatural, progressive transformation of a believer into the image of Christ, evidenced by good works and repentance.
2True saving faith is never alone; it is always accompanied by transforming fruit in the life of the believer.
3Believers are called to 'mortify the flesh,' which means actively killing sinful desires through the power of the Holy Spirit.
4The goal of the Christian life is not behavior modification, but the transformation of inner delights and affections toward God.

Discussion Questions

Use these questions for small group discussion or personal reflection.

1Why do you think the concept of 'becoming holy' is often missing from modern church conversations?
2How does understanding that sanctification is a 'supernatural transformation' change the way you approach your personal struggles with sin?
3What is the danger of seeking Jesus as Savior but not as Lord?
4Griffin mentions the 'Golden Chain' in Romans 8:29-30. How does the promise of eternal security actually motivate us toward holiness rather than laziness?
5What does it look like practically to 'put to death the deeds of the body' by the Spirit?
6How can we help one another in the church to pursue sanctification without falling into the trap of legalism?

Application Points

Practical ways to apply this message to your life.

Perform a heart 'audit' to determine if your primary affections are for the world or for Jesus Christ.
Identify one specific 'deed of the body' or habitual sin and commit to killing it by relying on the Spirit rather than willpower.
Dwell on the cross of Christ daily to kill personal pride and awaken deeper love for the Savior.
Replace worldly entertainment or distractions with spiritual disciplines that 'enliven the Spirit' within you.

Personal Reflection

Take time to quietly reflect on these prompts.

How is the Holy Spirit speaking to me through this message?

What areas of my life need to change in light of this teaching?

Who can I share this truth with this week?

What is one specific action I will take as a result of this sermon?

Prayer Points

Thank God for His Word and the truths revealed in this message.
Pray for understanding and wisdom to apply what you've learned.
Ask the Holy Spirit to help you live out these truths in your daily life.
Pray for others who heard this message, that they too would be transformed.

Notes

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