Good morning,
Romans 12 challenges us to live for Christ. We must present our bodies as living sacrifices, no longer live for the world, remember that we are part of the body of believers, we have specific responsibilities as a believer, and ultimately how we treat unbelievers.
How to Treat Outsiders (12:17-21)
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.
CONCLUSION
- Present your body a living sacrifice
- Be not conformed to this world
- Renewed mind
- One body, many functions
- Christian responsibilities
- Treat others well
These verses go against everything the world teaches us. Live peaceably with all men. What a challenge. Allow God to execute vengeance. Feed your hungry enemy. This is radical stuff.
Verse 21 sums up how we are to act when we have been wronged. “Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.”
This is how our world could be changed from wickedness to righteousness.
Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001
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