Romans 5

Pastor Marshall Ochs | FEBRUARY 1, 2026

In this message, Pastor Marshall teaches from Romans 5. In this chapter, Paul explains the results of being justified by faith: believers now have peace with God, access to sustaining grace, hope, and a new purpose even in suffering, all made possible through Christ’s saving work while we were still sinners. Paul highlights reconciliation as the greatest outcome—full restoration to God—and contrasts Adam’s disobedience, which brought death, with Christ’s obedience, which brings life and righteousness. Christ’s work calls all believers to live a new life that reflects this gift.

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1. Peace doesn’t mean the absence of trials, but rather a confidence in knowing that everything has been put back in order – under God’s control – regardless of outward circumstances. As a believer in Christ, are you experiencing the peace of God in your life? Why or why not?

2. We have been given peace, grace, power and hope to endure and stand firm no matter what life throws at us. Do you find that you have feelings of despair or hopelessness when facing trials?

3. Challenges, pain, sorrows and suffering have a purpose in our lives. They force us to look up and not down. These moments or seasons produce endurance which produces strength of character which produces confident hope (verse 3). They are faith builders! How have trials or difficult circumstances in your life grown your faith?

4. Knowing that we have been forgiven and cleansed by Christ’s shed blood, we live with great expectation, knowing that we are spared from the judgement and wrath of God. (Verse 8) While we were sinners, Christ died for us! When you think about this, how do you feel? Does it produce a feeling of immense joy and an attitude of thanksgiving?

5. The scripture refers to this as reconciliation. Like a runaway child returning home, we have been fully restored. Our sins are completely forgiven! Even if our sins were great – our God is greater! Have you have struggled to believe that God’s grace is enough to cover your sin? Let today be the day that you trust what God has said and live in confidence that it is under His shed blood (verses 9-11).

6. Having experienced this great love and reconciliation, how is this reflected to others in your life? Have you held on to unforgiveness or grudges against others? We cannot withhold the same forgiveness from others that we have been given through Christ. How would it change your life if you practiced the same forgiveness and reconciliation that you have experienced?

7. Often, our identity is tied up in our unforgiveness of someone else’s sin against us. We may believe that if we forgive them, they’re “getting away with it.” We lack faith to let God handle it. Holding onto these feelings and beliefs deeply affects our relationship with God and others. It is a life held hostage by anger and resentment. If this is where you are today, do you truly trust God to handle your pain and those who have offended you? Will you make today the day you lay it at His feet?

See this week’s message notes and pay close attention to the “conclusion” section. The sanctification process is Christ working in us to make us new – transforming us into His image. We must not live in captivity to our old ways or our old life. We have been made new! Don’t look back! Move forward into a new life! No more eating garbage! Feast at the King’s table!

Romans 3

Pastor Marshall Ochs | January 18, 2026

In this message, Pastor Marshall teaches from Romans 3. In this chapter, Paul explains that both Jews and Gentiles are equally guilty before God: the law reveals sin but cannot save, leaving everyone in need of God’s intervention. God resolves this dilemma by sending Jesus to perfectly meet the righteous standard and credit His righteousness to those who believe, making Him both just and the justifier. The passage calls believers to humility and continual dependence on Christ, recognizing our ongoing need for Him not only for salvation but for daily life.

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Understanding Romans 3

As we explore Romans 3, it is important to reflect on the notes provided by Marshall and consider the profound truths Paul shares in this chapter. Paul makes it clear that both Jews and Gentiles are in need of salvation. No one is able to perfectly keep the law, and relying on works alone cannot save anyone. In Romans 3:23, Paul declares, “ALL have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God.” This raises important questions for personal reflection: Are you attempting to “work” your way to God? Do you believe that being “good enough” will earn God’s approval? Do you constantly feel that you are falling short of His standards?

The Purpose of God’s Law

God established a righteous standard that no one can fully attain. The law was not given as a checklist for people to prove themselves, but rather to reveal that everyone falls short. Its purpose is to show our need for a Savior because no one can be “good enough” or follow all of God’s commandments perfectly. Recognizing this, God, in His mercy, sent His Son, Jesus, to fulfill the standard on our behalf. Jesus took upon Himself the punishment that we deserve, and through His sacrifice, we are justified. Consider whether you have truly acknowledged your need for Him. Have you asked Jesus to be your Savior and accepted that He paid a price you could never pay yourself?

 Living Out Your Faith

If you have accepted Jesus as your Savior, reflect on how far you have gone beyond that initial decision. Do you rely on Him in your daily life, or do you still depend on your own wisdom and intelligence to navigate your day? Perhaps you find yourself depending on success, money, or knowledge as your guiding forces. This is where pride can become a stumbling block.

 The Ongoing Need for Christ

As Christians, our need for Christ does not end at the moment of salvation. In fact, we need Him even more in every aspect of our lives. His guidance, strength, power, and anointing are essential for us to love, serve, and truly live. There is a common misconception among believers that simply accepting Christ as Savior is sufficient—having “fire insurance” without a surrendered life. In reality, we are called to seek God through His word and prayer daily, not as a mere task or obligation, but as a recognition of our desperate need for Him.

 Surrendering Completely

If you have struggled with the desire to read the Bible and pray, begin by asking God to transform your desires. Are you willing to give Him every part of your life? Pray and ask God to reveal any areas that are not fully surrendered to His control and leading. Commit to being obedient to His guidance, and trust that He will work in your life in ways you cannot imagine!