August 19 – Loving and Just Behavior

Sunday School Lesson

August 19

Loving and Just Behavior

 

 

Devotional Reading: Matthew 5:38-48

 

Background Scripture: Romans 12:9-21

 

Romans 12:9-21

 

9 Let love be without dissimulation. Abhor that which is evil; cleave to that which is good.

 

10 Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another;

 

11 Not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord;

 

12 Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer;

 

13 Distributing to the necessity of saints; given to hospitality.

 

14 Bless them which persecute you: bless, and curse not.

 

15 Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep.

 

16 Be of the same mind one toward another. Mind not high things, but condescend to men of low estate. Be not wise in your own conceits.

 

17 Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men.

 

18 If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men.

 

19 Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.

 

20 Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink: for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head.

 

21 Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.

 

Key Verse

 

Let love be without dissimulation. Abhor that which is evil; cleave to that which is good.—Romans 12:9

 

Lesson Aims

 

After participating in this lesson, each learner will be able to:

 

1. Give three examples (drawn from the teaching in today’s text) of overcoming evil with good.

 

2. Explain why God reserves vengeance for himself.

 

3. Correct a behavior in light of the loving and just standards stressed by Paul.

 

 

Introduction

 

1. The Wrong Seems Strong

 

It is easy to despair over the prevalence of evil. One result of expanded media coverage is that we seem to get extensive coverage of an endless parade of tragedies from all over the world. The stories range from cruelty to kittens to beheadings of Christians. Media outlets never seem to tire of presenting the latest in human depravity, so much so that we can become numb to its significance.

 

While we might imagine we have entered a new age of tragedy, the truth is that we have been in it for a long time. Maltbie Babcock, a nineteenth-century minister, knew this all too well. He and his wife, Katherine, had two sons, but both died as infants. Babcock found solace in taking long walks in nature and in writing poetry. These two came together in a public way when one of his poems was published and set to music after his death. The combination became the beloved hymn “This Is My Father’s World.” Often recognized for its appreciation of God’s creation, the lyrics also draw an important conclusion in stating “that though the wrong seems oft so strong, God is the ruler yet.”

 

We only escape the results of sin and evil when we get to Heaven. Even so, the apostle Paul, like Babcock, encourages us not to sink into despair. Evil will not prevail in the end. In our lesson this week, we see Paul address the problem of evil in a direct and practical manner.

 

1. Lesson Background

 

The ancient Greek philosophers pondered questions of morality in their writings. In their discussions, they considered categories of virtue and vice. The authors of the Bible provided their own teachings on these subjects. The Greek word for virtue occurs five times in the New Testament: Philippians 4:8; 1 Peter 2:9; 2 Peter 1:3, 5 (twice). The translation is “virtue” in four out of five instances; the sole exception is 1 Peter 2:9, which translates “praises.”

 

The philosopher Plato, writing 400 years before the New Testament authors, believed in four cardinal virtues: prudence, justice, temperance, and courage. These four were still held in esteem in the city of Rome in the century before Paul wrote Romans. This is clear from the writings of the Roman statesman Cicero (106-43 BC). We also find them in Wisdom of Solomon 8:7, a Jewish writing of the period: “If a man love righteousness her labours are virtues: for she teacheth temperance and prudence, justice and fortitude.”

 

For Paul, virtue was more than just a philosophical matter. Today’s lesson looks at a passage in Romans in which the apostle becomes intensely practical. Romans 12 begins with Paul calling followers of Jesus to be “transformed by the renewing of your mind” (12:2). Transformed to what? What does a transformed life look like?

 

The first 11 chapters of Romans are filled with wonderful but heavy doctrinal instruction. With chapter 12, Paul turns his attention squarely to the practical side of living the Christian life. The teachings in chapter 12, especially in the portion found in our printed text, are almost like proverbs: brief, self-contained statements. Many are similar to Jesus’ teachings as found in the Sermon on the Mount.

 

1. Relating with Fellow Believers

 

                                                                (Romans 12:9-13)

 

1. Loving Behavior (vv. 9, 10)

 

9a. Let love be without dissimulation.

 

Paul begins this section primarily discussing behaviors between Christians within the fellowship of the church. Paul’s first virtuous teaching serves to define loving behavior among Christians. The original word translated without dissimulation is rendered elsewhere as “unfeigned” (sincere), and that is the sense here (2 Corinthians 6:6; 1 Timothy 1:5). This includes both speech and actions. We should not say we love when we don’t. We should not act like we love when we don’t. The solution, however, is not to quit talking about love or merely acting as if one loves. It is to love truly, to overcome barriers of resentment or distrust and love from the heart.

 

How to Say It

 

ApollosUh-pahl-us.

 

CiceroSi-suh-row.

 

CorinthiansKo-rin-thee-unz (th as in thin).

 

DeuteronomyDue-ter-ahn-uh-me.

 

 

What Do You Think?

 

How do you know when your love is genuine?

 

Points for Your Discussion

 

Toward fellow Christians

 

Toward unbelievers

 

9b. Abhor that which is evil; cleave to that which is good.

 

Lest we think the previous line means that we ignore virtue or vice in others, Paul’s second virtuous teaching presents two actions regarding our interpersonal approach. This pair of commands does not focus on individuals themselves but on things they may do. It is the basis for the oft-quoted advice that we must “love the sinner but hate the sin” (although we realize that God sometimes hates both; see Proverbs 3:32; 11:20; 12:22; 16:5). Our love for others does not mean we encourage their sinful behaviors.

 

10. Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another.

 

Paul’s third set of virtuous teaching employs the Greek word that William Penn used in naming the first capital city of his Pennsylvania colony: Philadelphia, the city of brotherly love. We are to care for our Christian brothers and sisters with great affection. We are friends with our fellow Christians, but friends who are willing to make sacrifices for each other (as a parent would do for a son or daughter). We are to love each other deeply with the type of love a brother or sister would have for a sibling.

 

This is demonstrated when we quash our natural selfishness and elevate the needs of others over our own, preferring one another. Many Bible students are aware of the dozens of “one another” passages in the New Testament. Paul writes just over half of these. Imagine a community where every person is more concerned about the needs of others than his or her own! When we put others first, we honor them.

 

Does Your Faith Show?

 

When election campaigns heat up, pay attention to how candidates talk to and about their opponents. If the typical pattern occurs, candidates appearing together will shake hands and exchange smiles. But then they will launch into vicious attacks on the other’s positions—and sometimes their persons!

 

U.S. presidential campaigns serve as examples. When two candidates are together in social settings, they appear fairly civil toward one another. However, their debates are characterized by scathing attacks on each other’s integrity more than by a serious discussion of the issues that face the nation at the time.

 

People may disagree over whether the behavior of political candidates merely reflect the divided (and divisive) temperament of the nation or, on the other hand, fuel it. There is probably truth on both sides of that argument.

 

Regardless, the question for us as Christians is whether our own attitudes and behavior are any better than those of the world at large. Are we hypocritical? Do we hate what is evil and hold fast to what is good? Are we patient with those who disagree with us? Whatever the situation, whether in personal interactions with Christians or unbelievers, or in those tense moments that sometimes occur in the fellowship of the church, do we exhibit a godly spirit?

 

—C. R. B.

 

1. Just Behavior (vv. 11-13)

 

11a. Not slothful in business.

 

In quick order, Paul offers eight brief descriptions of the life of virtue. All eight consist of an “in ______” category (although the word in is not explicitly used in every case), along with a command related to this category. Slothful has the sense of carelessness, even sloppiness. The Greek word behind the translation business is also translated “diligence” elsewhere, and that is the sense here (as in Romans 12:8 and 2 Corinthians 8:7). Rather than speaking of his readers’ business activities, Paul is directing their attention to those qualities that are important in their relationships within the church. Christians should not treat their responsibilities to others with carelessness or neglect.

 

11b. Fervent in spirit.

 

This refers to a self-motivated excitement about living the kind of spiritual life that relentlessly seeks God. Acts 18:25 uses a similar phrase of Apollos.

 

What Do You Think?

 

How do you keep your spiritual passion high?

 

Points for Your Discussion

 

When discouragement starts to set in

 

When complacency starts to set in

 

When a Christian support system is absent

 

Other

 

11c. Serving the Lord.

 

When our desire to serve others grows weak, we should remember that we serve our Lord when we meet the needs of others (Matthew 25:40).

 

12a. Rejoicing in hope.

 

The gospel offers hope in ways no other religion does. The church should be a place of joy and hope, even in the midst of tragic circumstances. We need never doubt God’s love for us or that He is in control of our lives.

 

12b. Patient in tribulation.

 

Christians are not promised that their lives will be without trouble and free of worry—quite the opposite! (See Matthew 10:22; John 15:18; etc.) There are times when our faith must carry us through, when we must wait on the Lord (Isaiah 40:30, 31; Micah 7:7). Ignoring problems does not make them go away, but sometimes patient, hopeful endurance that is supported by others is the only answer we have.

 

12c. Continuing instant in prayer.

 

The Greek behind this unusual phrase is almost identical to that in Colossians 4:2a, and the translation “continue in prayer” there is the sense here (compare Acts 1:14). To have patience in the midst of trouble does not mean we are inactive. We bring our needs, both spiritual and physical, before the throne of God in our prayers.

 

Remember that Paul is writing in the context of the church as a whole. While we should have times of private prayer, a healthy and committed church will have members praying for each other in an informed way. Sometimes just knowing that others are praying for you brings comfort.

 

13a. Distributing to the necessity of saints.

 

The idea here is that of mutual sharing based on need (see 2 Corinthians 8:14, last week’s lesson). It describes tangible actions such as taking care of needs for food, clothing, or shelter.

 

This is part of the joyful fellowship of the church. We are encouraged in knowing that others in the fellowship care about us. They wait on the Lord with us. They pray for us. And they step up when we need help in managing the day-to-day pressures of living, such as providing for our families (compare Acts 2:42-47; 4:32-37; 6:1-6).

 

13b. Given to hospitality.

 

This means much more than being willing to have friends over to watch the big game. It means opening our homes to those going through trying circumstances, who need a place to stay or a meal (compare 1 Peter 4:9; 3 John 6-8). Even church members may at times need temporary housing.

 

All of these admonitions follow the idea of the more fortunate helping the less fortunate. Since the biblical idea of justice includes relief of the plight of the poor, the church is acting justly when it behaves this way (Micah 6:8). While Paul is primarily focused on relationships within the church in this section, he does nothing to forbid or discourage acts of compassion outside the body of Christ. The relationships outside the church are the focus of the next section.

 

What Do You Think?

 

In what ways can you be a role model in extending hospitality?

 

Points for Your Discussion

 

In light of scriptural directives (1 Timothy 3:2; Titus 1:8; 1 Peter 4:9; 3 John 6-8)

 

In light of current possibilities and challenges

 

 

 

1. Independent Exhortations

 

                                                               (Romans 12:14-16)

 

1. Empathetic Behavior (vv. 14, 15)

 

14. Bless them which persecute you: bless, and curse not.

 

Historical evidence tells us that the church in Rome is suffering persecution at this point, but not from the Roman government. That affliction will begin about 10 years after Paul writes this letter. The persecutors at this time come from the non-Christian Jewish community. They target Jews who have left the synagogue for the church and who believe that Jesus is indeed the Messiah. Such persecution likely presents itself in social and economic ostracism: those Jews who choose to follow Jesus find themselves shunned.

 

When troubled by another person, our first impulse might be simply to endure, to weather the storm. Another reaction might be to return aggression with aggression, cursing the other and striking back. Paul disallows both responses. When attacked unjustly, he calls his readers to bless their persecutors. We don’t fight fire with fire. We respond with love and grace, in a manner consistent with Jesus’ teaching (Matthew 5:43, 44).

 

What Do You Think?

 

In practical terms, what could it look like to bless someone who is consistently aggressive toward you?

 

Points for Your Discussion

 

When it’s a coworker

 

When it’s a neighbor

 

When it’s a family member

 

Other

 

15. Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep.

 

Paul shifts the focus back to connections between Christians in speaking about the nature of Christians’ interdependence. Shared joy seems to multiply; shared sorrow seems to lighten the burden (compare 1 Corinthians 12:26).

 

1. Humble Behavior (v. 16)

 

16a. Be of the same mind one toward another.

 

This is another of Paul’s “one another” passages; there are about 30 of them across all his letters. This particular one is fronted by one of the apostle’s hot-button issues: being unified in thought. The challenge to be of the same mind reverberates across his letters (see Romans 15:5; 1 Corinthians 1:10; 2 Corinthians 13:11; Philippians 2:2, 5; 4:2; compare Ephesians 4:13; 1 Timothy 6:3-5). Being able to “rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep” (just considered) is prerequisite to being of the same mind.

 

But we caution that the need for unity in thought should not be interpreted to mean that church members are to be absolutely uniform in their thinking. There is room in the church for differing opinions on certain issues (examples: Romans 14; 1 Corinthians 8). The call is to have a shared attitude that springs from a transformed mind (Romans 12:2).

 

16b. Mind not high things, but condescend to men of low estate.

 

The enemy of unity is pride (Philippians 2:2-4). Thinking of oneself too highly will hinder, if not prevent altogether, relationships with those of low estate (compare Romans 12:3).

 

16c. Be not wise in your own conceits.

 

Those guilty in this area become blind to the possibility that their viewpoint may be wrong (see Romans 11:25). No one wants to be around an arrogant person. Proverbs 3:7 connects a lack of conceit with fear of the Lord.

 

III. Relating with Unbelievers

 

                                                             (Romans 12:17-21)

 

1. Peaceful Behavior (vv. 17, 18)

 

17a. Recompense to no man evil for evil.

 

We do not take justice into our own hands when we are wronged, because it is not our prerogative to do so (Proverbs 20:22; 24:29). We are to respond to unjust treatment with kindness—a consistent teaching of the New Testament (Luke 6:28; 1 Thessalonians 5:15; 1 Peter 3:9). Paul has more to say on this subject two verses below.

 

17b. Provide things honest in the sight of all men.

 

The opposite of evil is things honest. Our standard is always to act with unmistakable integrity and compassion (see also 2 Corinthians 8:21). This is an important witness to the unbelieving world.

 

18. If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men.

 

Here’s how we can measure our progress in achieving the high standards at issue: the measure is the degree to which we are able to live peaceably with all men. Are you a troublemaker or a peacemaker? Do your actions provoke tense situations or calm them? Are you the person whom no one wants to cross because of your reputation for meanness, or are you one whom others trust and admire? We cannot control the behavior of others, but we can influence them by our lives of kindness, patience, forgiveness, and love (compare 2 Corinthians 13:11; 1 Thessalonians 5:13).

 

What Do You Think?

 

What techniques have you used to attempt to de-escalate a conflict with unbelievers?

 

 Points for Your Discussion

 

Techniques that have worked

 

Techniques that had no effect

 

Techniques that backfired, making things worse

 

1. Compassionate Behavior (vv. 19-21)

 

19. Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.

 

The taking of personal revenge is forbidden because of the nature of God himself. Paul quotes Deuteronomy 32:35 to assure his readers that injustice will not go unpunished (this verse is also quoted in Hebrews 10:30). There is a time and place for God’s wrath. There will be repayment from the Lord himself for evil done to the people of God. God reserves vengeance to himself.

 

20. Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink: for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head.

 

Paul continues to address proper behavior toward antagonists by quoting Proverbs 25:21, 22a. Jesus’ teaching on love for enemies (Matthew 5:44; Luke 6:27) forms the basis for Paul’s thoughts here, and the verses from Proverbs reflect this.

 

What Paul and the author of Proverbs mean by the phrase heap coals of fire on his head is not entirely certain. Figurative uses of “coals” and “fire” in the Old Testament are connected with God’s judgment (Psalm 18:8; 140:10; etc.). If this is the connection, then unrepentant enemies will suffer the vengeance of Romans 12:19, just considered. The hoped-for repentance may come about from feelings of shame when the actions of evildoers are met with acts of kindness.

 

Responding to Indirect Persecution

 

One could make a case that America was at one time a “Christian nation,” if defined broadly enough. But various court decisions in the 1960s and 1970s have caused that designation to fall into disuse. These cultural shifts resulted in some Christians’ referring to themselves as “persecuted.” But this is, at best (worst?), what we might call indirect persecution, since it does not involve loss of livelihood, torture, and/or martyrdom that Christians have faced and are facing.

 

Decades after the 1970s, we experience the secularizing winds’ blowing ever stronger. An example is a certain bill that was working its way through the California legislature a couple of years ago. Among other things, it outlawed so-called discrimination in any Christian college that received government aid for students: there should be no moral behavior codes for students; no doctrinal standards for their professors; no religious content in nonreligious courses; etc.

 

There may be no direct persecution in such legislation, but there is abundant indirect persecution in that the result is that the truths of the Bible in general and the gospel in particular are ever more marginalized. How do we put Romans 12:20 into practice in such a context?

 

—C. R. B.

 

21. Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.

 

A two-step process is in view here. Step 1, resisting successfully being overcome of evil, is indeed a major victory! But wars are not won merely by being good at defense. There is also the absolutely vital nature of Step 2, overcome evil with good.

 

We see the good and do the good, thereby joining our Lord as the one who overcomes the world (John 16:33). Evil will not prevail, nor will the evil one, Satan (1 John 2:13, 14). At the final judgment, we will see the vengeance and justice of God prevail. The Bible promises it!

 

Conclusion

 

1. Overcoming Evil

 

A prevailing message in most cultures is that “might makes right.” Usually might refers to physical power and intimidation, but it may also describe economic power. The richest person often has lawyers who know how to win court judgments. Might can also be political power.

 

“Might makes right” is not Paul’s position. His position flips the phrase around: “right makes might.” When Christians do right things, the mighty power of God is behind them. God is in control, and His justice will prevail. To say that the good will overcome the evil is to say that God will overcome evil.

 

These are comforting thoughts for those who suffer affliction and injustice in a sin-broken world. We both depend on God and pursue His agenda for repairing the brokenness, using His principles and Jesus’ teachings. This is part of what it means to represent the kingdom “not of this world” (John 18:36).

 

1. Prayer

 

Lord God, may we respond with love, not hate, to people who oppose You. May we demonstrate patience, not anger. May we be like Your Son, who asked forgiveness for those who crucified Him. We pray this in His name. Amen.

 

1. Thought to Remember

Do good to those who aren’t good.

 

 

KID’S CORNER

Many Reasons to Rejoice

August 19, 2018

Romans 12:9-21

 

Romans 12:9-21

(Romans 12:9) Let love be without hypocrisy. Abhor what is evil; cling to what is good.

Love must be genuine, sincere, and honest toward God and others; therefore, Christians do not hypocritically put on a show of love to gain a selfish advantage over others or to manipulate or try to manipulate God or others for personal gain. The opposite of love is hate. Hate is the personal total rejection of someone or something, along with the desire to never be near what is hated. Some people hate God and Christians. Christians need to reject all association with evil. Evil can include indifference to right and wrong and good and bad, and thinking that evil is simply subjective personal preferences instead of a part of reality. Evil refuses to listen to reason or accept the Bible is true. The Bible defines and illustrates the meanings of good and evil. The Bible gives an objective definition of the moral law, which we find described in the Ten Commandments. For example, in the Ten Commandments we learn to embrace godliness, to worship the true God, to love and honor God and our parents, and to reject lying, stealing, murder, envy, coveting, and other sins. Doing evil is disobeying the moral law of God as revealed in the Bible and following the desires of the world, the flesh, and the devil.

(Romans 12:10) Be devoted to one another in brotherly love; give preference to one another in honor;

Paul wrote that Christians should not only love one another as they do others but commit themselves to doing all they wisely can with the material and spiritual resources God gives them to promote what is best for all their brothers and sisters in Christ. In doing so, they look for ways to acknowledge the achievements of others in the cause of Christ and commend them above themselves rather than seek personal glory in serving Christ. When Christians honor one another, they promote goodwill in the Church, and draw others to the Church when they see how much Christians love one another. And old acrostic poem JOY stands for putting Jesus First, Others Second, and Yourself Third, which brings everyone JOY.

(Romans 12:11) not lagging behind in diligence, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord;

When we serve the Lord, we need to do so do with zeal (with cheerfulness, confidence, energy, enthusiasm, helpfulness and hopefulness); in ways that will help others see the supreme value we place in serving Jesus, and perhaps they will come to agree that He is worthy to be served and come to serve Him too. To keep our spiritual fervor, we need to continue in prayer and Bible study while asking the Lord what we can do to serve Him in better and new ways. Our prayers and Bible study time should help us learn what we need to change in our ways of living with the Lord’s help. We also need to work and worship with our fellow Christians; then, we can encourage and inspire one another to pray and serve, especially when any of us are afflicted or discouraged.

(Romans 12:12) rejoicing in hope, persevering in tribulation, devoted to prayer,

In Romans 12:10 & 12, Paul has brought faith, hope, and love together (see also 1 Corinthians 13). When we think about God’s plans and how He prepares His people for the future, and when we begin expressing our thanks to God for the glorious possibilities involved in our spending eternity with Jesus and all those who love Him, we have many reasons to be joyful and patient in affliction. In 2 Corinthians 4:16-18, Paul wrote: “Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles (afflictions) are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.” Because God deserves our worship and wants fellowship with us, He has commanded us to be faithful in prayer, faithful to keep an open conversation with Him no matter what trials we may be experiencing — we should never, never, never give up on prayer and our personal relationship with God in Jesus Christ — He will answer our prayers.

(Romans 12:13) contributing to the needs of the saints, practicing hospitality.

From the early days of the Church, Christians have shared with others in need. Among other times, Jesus shared with those in need when He fed 5,000 people who came to hear Him teach and when He fed His disciples after He rose from the dead. After the Day of Pentecost, the apostles followed His example (see Acts 2). Christians have always sought to help others in need, whether the needy were Christians or not, and their selfless sharing has led many to faithfulness in following Jesus Christ. For centuries, many Christians have opened their homes and fed traveling missionaries and ministers. When Francis and Edith Schaeffer opened their home to others in the Swiss Alps, they prayed for the people of the Lord’s choice to come to their home, and for Him to keep all others away. They did not want people coming who just wanted a free vacation. Others have opened their homes to Bible study and prayer groups and home churches.

(Romans 12:14) Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse.

Beginning with this verse in our lesson, Paul turns to the Christian’s relationship with nonbelievers and the spiritually immature. Christians will be persecuted in this world in one way or another, and the Bible commands us to bless those who persecute us. To bless those who persecute us, we need to pray for them to make the changes in their lives that they need to make, that they will repent of their sins and place their faith in Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior; otherwise, they will face the just judgement of God. To bless others, we can pray for the light, life, and love of Jesus Christ to shine forth from our lives that they might be drawn to faith in Jesus and receive eternal life through Him. To curse someone is to call down evil or a curse from God upon them, that they might be condemned, rather than be saved. The Bible commands Christians to bless and not curse anyone, and following this command shows the sharp contrast between Christians and many unbelievers.

(Romans 12:15) Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep.

Christians need to empathize (understand and share the feelings of another) with those who are rejoicing or mourning. Christians need to sympathize (show interest, concern, and compassion) for those who are suffering. Whereas some may envy the good news or achievements others receive, the Bible encourages us to rejoice with them and praise God with them for the blessings they have received. What may seem like baby steps or small advancements to us may be giant steps and awesome achievements to others because of their situation, so we need to be sensitive and rejoice with all who rejoice. When someone mourns, it usually does not help them for us to put on a happy face and offer words that minimize their suffering. We need to express sincere sorrow and pray for and with them.

(Romans 12:16) Be of the same mind toward one another; do not be haughty in mind, but associate with the lowly. Do not be wise in your own estimation.

Sometimes even those (and perhaps especially those) in Christian churches and families need to heed this command. We can pray for the Holy Spirit to work in our lives and in the lives of others to bring harmony into our relationships. The Holy Spirit can help us overcome the differences that divide us by showing us how we can confirm our thoughts and behaviors to all the teachings in the Bible. Arrogance and pride can become stumbling blocks to developing and maintaining Christian relationships, and barriers to telling others effectively about the life-changing power of Jesus Christ. Jesus Christ should be our example, and in Philippians 2:8, Paul wrote: “And being found in appearance as a man, He (Christ) humbled himself by becoming obedient to death—even death on a cross!”

(Romans 12:17) Never pay back evil for evil to anyone. Respect what is right in the sight of all men.

Paul does not teach that we should not seek justice when someone does evil to us. Our seeking justice may discourage someone from continuing to pursue evil and deter others who are seeing the consequences of doing evil. Two wrongs do not make a right. Christians are never to do evil, no matter what the reason. Protecting yourself and others from evil is not repaying evil for evil; there are times when self-defense is necessary. When we prayerfully follow Jesus and the Bible’s teachings, we do right, and we should so live rightly that others can follow our good example.

(Romans 12:18) If possible, so far as it depends on you, be at peace with all men.

Looking back to Romans 12:16, we should strive to live in harmony with others. However, in some situations our Christian values and efforts to proclaim the truth about Jesus will offend some and they may attack us in immoral ways – perhaps by telling lies about us as Jesus’ enemies did about Him. While teaching the truth about the ways of God, Jesus strived to bring peace and live in peace with all people, but He did not soften His message to be at peace with those committed to doing evil and dishonoring His Father. We are not to sacrifice the truth to maintain peace at any cost. Jesus came as the Truth to teach the truth to everyone, and in Matthew 10:34, Jesus described what He came to do: “Do not suppose that I have come to bring peace to the earth. I did not come to bring peace, but a sword.”

(Romans 12:19) Never take your own revenge, beloved, but leave room for the wrath of God, for it is written, “VENGEANCE IS MINE, I WILL REPAY,” says the Lord.

To take revenge can result in our taking the law unjustly into our own hands, or in our bearing a grudge against someone which can also spiritually harm us. God will do whatever is just and right in every situation where we have been unjustly attacked and wronged. Indeed, God always and inevitably will work out all our unjust sufferings for our good, and in many ways we can experience God at work making our lives spiritually better through them. In Romans 8:28-29, Paul wrote, “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters.” God works out all these unjust experiences for our good to conform us to the image of His Son.

(Romans 12:20) “BUT IF YOUR ENEMY IS HUNGRY, FEED HIM, AND IF HE IS THIRSTY, GIVE HIM A DRINK; FOR IN SO DOING YOU WILL HEAP BURNING COALS ON HIS HEAD.”

In some sense, Paul is telling Christians to do for others what Jesus Christ has done for us. Jesus came to save us while we were still His enemies. His demonstrations of God’s love for us worked on our conscience; that is, “heaped burning coals on our heads” and led us to faith and repentance, to our embracing Jesus Christ as our Friend, our Lord and Savior. When we try to meet a real need of one of our enemies, when it’s wisely in our power to do so, we might lead them to see the difference Jesus Christ can make in a person’s life and lead them to faith in Christ and true friendship with Christ and us.

(Romans 12:21) Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.

We can be overcome by evil when we do evil against an enemy who has done evil to us. Retaliation can lead to escalation, but this does not mean that we cannot justly defend ourselves or seek justice in legal ways. No matter what others do to us, we need to keep on doing good. Acting justly and mercifully is doing good. We will also be tempted to do evil by the evil example of others (and by the world, the flesh, and the devil), but we must keep on doing good according to the Scriptures and the leading of the Holy Spirit. And if we have the opportunity, we can pray for Jesus to show us what good we can do to His enemies and ours that might turn them from doing evil to living rightly, to repenting and placing their faith in Him.

 

Many Reasons to Rejoice

August 19, 2018

Romans 12:9-21

 

 “Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer” (Romans 12:12).

 

In Philippians 4:4, Paul wrote: “Rejoice in the Lord always,” and in Romans 12:12, “Be joyful in hope.” Because of their faith, Christians rejoice in the hope that Jesus gives. Faith is the assurance of things hoped for, and as Christians pray and learn more about Jesus’ plans for them in the future the Holy Spirit strengthens their faith in Jesus. We hope for what we have not yet seen or experienced; however, Christians rejoice in hope with the certain knowledge that Jesus has gone into heaven to prepare a place specifically suited to each person. But more than going to a happy place after death, Christians rejoice because in the future they will see Jesus and remain forever with Him and all who love Him. Furthermore, our mental, moral, spiritual, and physical brokenness will be completely healed by Jesus, and He will prepare all who love Him to reign with Him in a new heaven and earth. Therefore, when Christians rejoice in hope, they also have good reasons for patience when they are suffering any affliction, persecution or tribulation. They know their afflictions produce endurance and they will achieve an eternal glory that far outweighs their earthly sufferings. In addition to knowing many reasons for rejoicing and being patient when suffering, through prayer Christians can have instant fellowship and communication with God, and by remaining faithful and persistent in prayer, God will sustain them moment-by-moment no matter what is happening to them or around them. We have a command from our loving God to keep the lines of communication open between Him and us through prayer, which reveals God’s great love for us and His desire to help us.

 

Thinking Further

Many Reasons to Rejoice

August 19, 2018

Romans 12:9-21

Name _________________________

 

 

1. Complete this command: Be joyful in _____, patient in ______, faithful in ______.

 

2. Give four reasons a Christian can be joyful every day.

 

3. Name four things a Christian should do faithfully each day.

 

4. Remembering what you have learned from the Bible, how might you encourage a Christian who is suffering persecution.

 

5. How did Paul say a Christian should treat his enemies? In your own words, why should a Christian treat his enemies in this way?

 

 

Questions for Discussion and Thinking Further

 

1. Complete this command: Be joyful in _____, patient in ______, faithful in ______. Hope, Affliction, Prayer.

 

2. Give four reasons a Christian can be joyful every day. Jesus has died on the cross for our sins and offered to forgive us for our sins. Christians know they are right with God by grace through faith in Jesus Christ. Christians know God has revealed the truth about reality, the human situation, and His plans for them in the Bible. No matter what happens Christians look forward with hope to spending all eternity with God the Father, Jesus Christ, and all those who love God and one another. Christians can enjoy the fruit of the Holy Spirit within them every day, and that fruit includes joy.

 

3. Name four things a Christian should do faithfully each day. Pray. Read the Bible. Praise and thank God for His many blessings. Love one another as Jesus Christ has loved us.

 

4. Remembering what you have learned from the Bible, how might you encourage a Christian who is suffering persecution. I might remind them of these precious promises in Romans 8:28-29, “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his 3 Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters.” I might share these words of Jesus in Matthew 5:10-12, “Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.”

 

5. How did Paul say a Christian should treat his enemies? In your own words, why should a Christian treat his enemies in this way? Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Do not curse them but bless them. Try to live in peace with them as far as it depends on you. If they are hungry, feed them; if they are thirsty, give them something to drink. Overcome evil with good. Our good deeds toward our enemies might have an effect on their conscience and lead them to repent of their sins and change their behavior toward us — perhaps even lead them to saving faith in Jesus Christ.

 

Word Search

Many Reasons to Rejoice

August 19, 2018

Romans 12:9-21

Name _________________________

 

U K T N E L A Z I U V A N F Z

C J E S U S Y M E S F O W J G

Q L P X W G R W H A I H R D L

P D K M D P O A L T L E F O N

N R E O Q I T F C U Y X V P F

Y H O P E E S I S A F E M D E

O G E N L E L H R D S Y I Q R

W I M Y V F O P P E P T O D V

E S F I F N I A U T I E G J O

J R L A O P T D J O R U Z C R

N T E R G I B W A V I O P J E

S K F C E D G I R E T E M F L

T R A N N V M Y P D U V K R G

P Z T H S I L W S X A R L A Y

S Y X J F M S U O G L F C Z D

 

Love

Sincere

Hate

Evil

Good

Devoted

Honor

Zeal

Spiritual

Fervor

Joyful

Hope

Patient

Affliction

Prayer

 

True and False Test

Many Reasons to Rejoice

August 19, 2018

Romans 12:9-21

Name _________________________

 

Circle the true or false answers. Correct the false statements by restating them.

 

1. As long as you hate evil, it is okay to do a few bad things once in a while.

True or False

 

2. Love should be genuine and sincere, without hypocrisy. True or False

 

3. Christians have many good reasons to be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, and faithful in prayer. True or False

 

4. When someone is persecuting us or doing evil to us, we should immediately begin to plan our revenge and pray for God to curse them. True or False

 

5. Rejoice with those who rejoice and curse with those who curse. True or False

 

6. God wants Christians to seek worldly honors, be proud of themselves, and show others how much better they are than others. True or False

 

7. No matter what they want, God wants us to please others. True or False

 

8. If it is possible, as far as it depends on us, we should live at peace with others. True or False

 

9. It is possible to overcome evil with good. True or False

 

10. If our enemies are hungry or thirsty, we should feed them or give them something to eat. True or False

 

True and False Test Answers

Romans 12:9-21

 

1. False
2. True
3. True
4. False
5. False
6. False
7. False
8. True
9. True

    10.True

 

 

Prayer

Lord God, may we respond with love, not hate, to people who oppose You. May we demonstrate patience, not anger. May we be like Your Son, who asked forgiveness for those who crucified Him. We pray this in His name. Amen.