Romans 7

Pastor Marshall Ochs | FEBRUARY 15, 2026

In this message, Pastor Marshall teaches from Romans 7. In this chapter, Paul teaches that believers are no longer bound to the law but are made alive in Christ, moving from slavery to sin and death into freedom through the Spirit. Paul explains that the law itself is good but exposes and even provokes sin, revealing humanity’s need for Jesus to bring true freedom and power to obey. The chapter concludes by emphasizing that Christians now live under the “law of Christ”—loving God and others—and are empowered by the Spirit rather than trapped in the cycle of sin.

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Paul’s message in Romans 7 is directed toward the Jewish believers, emphasizing that the law itself cannot save them. The law, while important, does not have the power to deliver individuals from sin. It actually condemns those trying to keep the law because they cannot live up to it.

Have you had the realization in your life that there is no way you could be “good enough” or “work your way to heaven?”

Paul uses marriage to illustrate his point.  When a spouse dies, the law of marriage no longer applies.  The living spouse is allowed to marry another.  In the same manor, when we accept Christ as our Savior, we have a life no longer bound by the law.  We now have a life united – married to Christ.  The law and the sin struggle of the inability to keep it no longer condemns us.  Christ has set us free from that condemnation.

Have you accepted Christ as your Savior and still struggle with the feelings of shame or guilt?  Jesus died to set us free from that shame and guilt!  Let today be the day that you cry out to God and lay that down!

Paul explains that the law showed people what they should not be doing and yet, it only made them want to do it more.  Sin took advantage of the law in this way.  In Romans 7:14-8:2, Paul speaks to this very issue.  The unbeliever’s life is centered around their own desires.  The Christian’s life is centered around the desire to live for and please God.  However, we cannot do this in our own power.  It is through the power of the Holy Spirit that we live for Christ.  He transforms us day by day to live for Him.  Jesus sets us free from being slaves to sin.

Do you find yourself struggling with sin?  Have you asked the Lord to help you lay it down and live for Him?  Only He has the power to transform your life and set you free.  You cannot do it in your own power.

We cannot keep living by a set of rules in our own power.  We can live by the power of Christ in us which motivates us to gladly serve God and others.  God’s law is to love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, mind and strength and to love others as yourself.  If we make this our plea to God, He is faithful to answer.

Is this your desire?  If so, pray to the Lord to transform your mind and set your desires on Him.  Watch what He will do!

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!