Romans: The Debt of Love
In Romans 13 Paul suggests that just as we feel compelled to settle our financial debts, we should feel an even greater compulsion to fulfill our debt of love towards one another. Here, love is more than an emotion; it is a testament to our faith.
Romans: Living as a Citizen of Heaven Under Human Authority
In Romans 13:1-7, we are commanded to submit to governmental authority. As we dive into this passage, it is crucial to keep in focus the ultimate priority in our lives — our relationship with Christ. This perspective does not diminish the significance of our roles within our earthly citizenship but rather frames them within the larger context of our eternal citizenship in God’s kingdom.
Romans: Christian Living Part 2 — Loving When It’s Hard
As we study Romans 12:14-21, we confront some of the most challenging aspects of Christian living — extending love in the face of adversity and opposition. Let’s explore how we can live out this high calling, not by our might, but by the Spirit of God who empowers us to love radically and sacrificially, even when it is hard.
Romans: Christian Living Part 1 — Love One Another
In Romans 12:9-13, Paul challenges us to embody the Gospel in every aspect of our behavior and interactions. As we explore how Paul instructs us to use our gifts in the context of love, it is clear that our actions towards one another should not only reflect our faith but should be driven by it. Love, as Paul outlines, is not just a feeling but an active, engaging force that must permeate every interaction within the community of believers.
Romans: Spiritual Gifts Reflect a Spiritual Mindset
Romans 12:3-8 is a cornerstone for understanding Christian service and spiritual gifts. However, Paul stresses that the proper use of these gifts can only stem from proper thinking — about ourselves, about others, and about the gifts themselves.
Romans: Don’t Be Conformed… Be Transformed!
Romans 12 shifts from theoretical understanding to practical application of the Gospel’s truths. Romans 12 provides the actual game plan for living out the Gospel in transformative ways that affect not only ourselves but the world around us.