Romans 12 – Part 2

Today’s theme is love in action

1. Love those in the church

Romans 12:9-13 “Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. ¹⁰ Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. ¹¹ Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. ¹² Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. ¹³ Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality.”

The Greek word for sincere here means Free from hypocrisy.

Rule number one in God’s kingdom:

• Love well

Honoring others above ourselves is – The process of making someone else look good.

What does the Bible say about pride?

James 4:6 “God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble.”

Proverbs 16:5 “The Lord detests all the proud of heart.
    Be sure of this: They will not go unpunished.”

Proverbs 16:18 “Pride goes before destruction”

2. Love others outside the church

Romans 12:14-16 “Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. ¹⁵ Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. ¹⁶ Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited.”

1 John 4:8 “Whoever does not love does not know God. God is love.”

God is love:

• He wants us to love those inside the church.
• He wants us to love those outside the church.
• 3. Love your enemies

Romans 12: 17-21 “Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. ¹⁸ If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. ¹⁹ Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” says the Lord. ²⁰ On the contrary:

“If your enemy is hungry, feed him;
    if he is thirsty, give him something to drink.
In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.” Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.”