Romans 12
Let love be genuine. Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good. Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor. Romans 12:9-10
This morning,
I continued my study of Romans. Using my commentary -
Exalting Jesus in Romans (eBook) - I started chapter sixteen
Living in View of God's Mercy, which
covers Romans 12:1-16. Building on my post
yesterday, where I focused on Romans v12:3-8, this morning I review the v12:9-16 and the associated commentary. While the sub-heading of the text (ESV) refers to these verses as "Marks of the True Christian," the commentary indicates that irregardless of the subheading the implication and intent of these verses is for Christians to outwardly demonstrate lives that oppose conformity to worldly behavior - we are to be "counter-cultural." Our renewed mind (v12:2) transforms our thinking and actions, enabling us to live this worldly-opposed life and God works through us, causing our obedience. While we see a number of commands, including how we are to love and treat our "enemies" or those who persecute or treat us harshly, the over-riding command is to love others as God loves us (see
John 13:34) - given all believers where at one point enemies of God (see
Romans 5:10). My commentary stresses that such love leads to action - empathy and compassion towards others (see
1 John 3:16-18). We must also hate evil as God does. We must also live with zeal - not apathy!
Comment and discuss this post here.
My Prayer: Lord Jesus, what an amazing God You are that even while we were still enemies of God, You loved us and offered salvation for those who believe - what an amazing gift of grace! Thank You Jesus. Yet I am not deserving. I have gossip, worry, harsh words, anger, etc. in my life. Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You. Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me. Help me grow in my faith. Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength. Please heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo. Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior. Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.
