Suggested Lesson Development

Attention Activity

As appropriate, use the following activity or one of your own to begin the lesson.

Have a class member read Romans 3:10. Explain that in this verse Paul was not suggesting that no one ever does righteous acts; instead, he was pointing out that no one on earth is perfectly righteous. Christ was the only person who ever lived a completely sinless life. Everyone else has committed some sin (see also Romans 3:23).

Explain that once we commit sin, we cannot become completely clean again on our own. This lesson will discuss how we can become clean through the Atonement of Jesus Christ, a process that Paul called justification.

Scripture Discussion and Application

Prayerfully select the scripture passages and questions that will best meet class members’ needs. Encourage class members to share their testimonies of the doctrines and principles discussed in the lesson.

1. We are justified by faith in Jesus Christ.

Read and discuss Romans 2–5. Invite class members to read selected verses aloud. Explain that Paul had been writing to Church members in several areas who had returned to practicing the law of Moses, believing that strict observance of this law was necessary for salvation. Although the Saints in Rome were strong in the gospel (Romans 1:8), Paul wrote this epistle to emphasize that justification and salvation come through faith in Christ, not through the works of the law of Moses.

2. We can be reborn and become joint-heirs with Christ.

Read and discuss selected verses from Romans 6 and Romans 8.

3. We should live as becomes Saints.

Read and discuss selected verses from Romans 12–13; 15:1–7.

Conclusion

Emphasize that it is through faith in Jesus Christ and righteous living that we can be justified—declared righteous and reconciled to God. Testify that we are children of God and have the potential to become joint-heirs with Christ if we have faith in him and live as he has commanded us.