GLORIFYING GOD IN A HOSTILE WORLD
Romans 12:14–21
Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse them. 15 Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep. 16 Live in harmony with one another. Do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly. Never be wise in your own sight. 17 Repay no one evil for evil, but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all. 18 If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all. 19 Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, “Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.” 20 To the contrary, “if your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink; for by so doing you will heap burning coals on his head.” 21 Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.
1. Imitate Jesus Christ by Responding with Grace
• Respond with grace by choosing blessing rather than retaliation. (Romans 12:14)
• Respond with grace by choosing empathy rather than indifference. (Romans 12:15)
• Respond with grace by choosing humility rather than pride. (Romans 12:16)
2. Imitate Jesus Christ by resisting with Integrity
• Resist evil by doing what is honorable before God and others. (Romans 12:17)
• Resist division by pursuing peace with all people. (Romans 12:18)
• Resist vengeance by trusting God’s perfect justice. (Romans 12:19)
3. Imitate Jesus Christ by Overcoming with Love
• Overcome with love by showing kindness to your enemies. (Romans 12:20)
• Overcome with love by standing firm against evil. (Romans 12:21a)
• Overcome with love by practicing good in every situation. (Romans 12:21b)