A few weeks ago, we embarked on a journey through Romans 12, exploring the transformation that comes with accepting Jesus Christ as our savior. We learned how our minds are renewed, shifting from a selfish, worldly perspective to a Godly one. This transformation, a process of dying to our old selves and embracing our new identity in Christ, is fueled by God’s grace and our faith. This week, we continued our journey, delving into Romans 12:9-21, where Paul outlines the evidence of this inner transformation – how it manifests in our relationships with fellow believers and with the world around us.
Paul divides his instructions into two distinct categories: verses 9-13 focus on how we treat those within the family of God, while verses 14-21 address our interactions with those outside the faith. It’s a sobering reminder that even within the church, love and unity can be a struggle. We’ve all witnessed or experienced the pain of conflict and division within faith communities. It’s a stark contrast to the refuge the church should be – a place of support, encouragement, and genuine love.
Paul begins by emphasizing the importance of genuine love. It’s not a superficial, outward display, but a deep, authentic love rooted in Christ’s love for us. He loved us not because of our worthiness, but because of His desire for relationship with us. This genuine love should permeate our interactions with one another, even with those we find difficult to love. It’s a love that abhors evil, clings to what is good, and actively seeks to honor others above ourselves.
This kind of love isn’t passive. It’s fervent, a red-hot passion for the things of God. It fuels our service, our joy, our patience in tribulation, and our constant prayer. It compels us to contribute to the needs of the saints and to show hospitality. It’s a love that motivates us to care for one another, both practically and emotionally.
Then, Paul shifts our focus to those outside the family of God. He instructs us to bless those who persecute us, a challenging command indeed. True Christian love extends even to those who oppose us. It’s not about condoning their actions, but about reflecting the love of Christ, who himself was persecuted. We are called to rejoice with those who rejoice and weep with those who weep, demonstrating empathy and compassion to all.
Living in harmony with one another, associating with the lowly, and repaying no one evil for evil are all hallmarks of a transformed life. We are called to live peaceably with everyone, as far as it depends on us, leaving vengeance to God. Instead of seeking revenge, we are to feed our enemies if they are hungry and give them drink if they are thirsty. This act of kindness, rooted in love, can be a powerful witness, demonstrating the transformative power of Christ.
This isn’t about manipulating others or seeking personal gain. It’s about reflecting the love of Christ and allowing God to work in the hearts of those who don’t yet know Him. It’s about understanding that God uses our acts of kindness to reveal their need for Him. It’s a reminder that we are called to be ambassadors for Christ, representing Him to a world that desperately needs His love.
The message is simple, yet profound: be nice. It sounds like a kindergarten lesson, but it’s a truth we often forget. We are called to love, to forgive, and to serve. Our actions, both within the church and in the world, should reflect the transformation that has taken place within us. It’s not about our own righteousness, but about Christ’s love shining through us. It’s about recognizing that every person, regardless of their background or beliefs, is worthy of love and respect because they are created in the image of God. Let us strive to live lives that are marked by genuine love, red-hot passion for God, and a desire to serve others, reflecting the transformative power of the Gospel.
