Study of Romans 12 – Verse 15

“Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep.” (Romans 12:15 NKJV)

    This simply-stated verse tells us that compassion is a needed characteristic for members of the body of Christ.

    Compassion is not just a feeling of pity for a person and their situation; it involves empathy. Where sympathy understands the emotion felt by another, empathy experiences the emotion alongside the other person. Sympathy may stand a bit apart and offer the expected words for the occasion, but empathy sits down with those hurting and offers comfort and help through action – it walks the rough road with them – and rejoices with the other when resolution is found and when strength is renewed.

Rejoice (Strong’s Greek #5463 ‘chairo’) means be glad, be joyful

Weep (Strong’s Greek #2799 ‘klaio’) means to cry, to mourn. It is an emotional outpouring due to either personal grief or compassion for others.

    Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep. Be involved. Help them lift the load and be diligent in your desire to help carry the burden down the road (Galatians 6:2), however long the road may be. Let your love be in deed (action) and in truth (sincerity, 1 John 3:18).

“…there should be no schism in the body; but that the members should have the same care for one another. And if one member suffers, all the members suffer with it; or if one member is honoured, all the members rejoice with it.” (1 Corinthians 12:25-26 NKJV)

    The body of Christ needs deep connection among its members, not arm’s length understanding and empty words spoken in the moment; a congregation of believers needs to be there for each other to help carry the burden – weep with those who weep – walking the road together, so that when a time for rejoicing comes, you can heartily rejoice with each other! 

    Be a bondservant (a servant who chooses to stay and serve, Deuteronomy 15:12-18) – bonded first to God, and then to each other for His sake – because “a threefold cord is not quickly broken” (Ecclesiastes 4:12)! Take the time to sit together, pray together, study together, stand together, encourage each other, and praise God for His blessed provisions throughout it all!

    Are you ready to be a living sacrifice (Romans 12:1) and give of your time so you can walk alongside your brethren in their troubles and their triumphs?

You can do it! So can I!! 

 

Study of Romans 12 – Verse 14

“Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse.” (Romans 12:14 NKJV)

Bless (Strong’s #G2127 ‘eulogeo’) means to speak well of, give reason(s) why this person should be seen as beneficial.

    Look at the Greek word again – eulogeo – it is from this Greek word that we get a well-known English word: eulogy. A eulogy is most commonly associated with a funeral service. It is the part of the service when a friend or family member will stand up and speak well of the deceased, telling of their work, their faith, their family, their kindnesses, their achievements, etc. God commands us to speak kind words and uplifting words about others while they live, even while they persecute us. Read and think about Ephesians 4:28-32.

Persecute (Strong’s #1377 ‘dioko’) means to pursue, chase, harass, trouble, molest, etc.  Consider those who persecuted Jesus (John 5:16-18, 11:53), how Saul persecuted the church (Acts 7:58, 8:1-4, Philippians 3:4-6), and then after his conversion (Acts 9, 22, 26) how Saul, also known as Paul (Acts 13:9), began to face persecution (Acts 17:5-13, 23:12-14).

    When we are persecuted for righteousness’ sake we are told to rejoice and be exceedingly glad because it means we’re doing what is right! Jesus told us in John 15:18-20 that the world hates us because we are not of the world (if we were of the world they would love us), and those who walk as Jesus walked will face persecution just as He did. When we commit to follow Jesus’ steps it means we will encounter persecution, but it also means we will follow His example to respond to it just as He did: He took it patiently; when He was reviled, He did not revile in return, when He suffered He did not threaten, but committed Himself to Him who judges righteously (1 Peter 2:20-24). Take time to read and consider Isaiah 50:6-9.       

“Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you when they revile and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely for My sake. Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.” (Matthew 5:10-12 NKJV)

    How do we bless those who persecute us? 

    The ultimate examples are, for one, Jesus, who asked His Father to forgive those who were crucifying Him “for they do not know what they do” (Luke 23:34), and the other is Stephen, who, while the rocks being thrown by angry men were breaking his body, he cried out to God the Father to “not charge them with this sin” (Acts 7:54-60). They looked beyond the agony, called out to God, and asked a blessing for their persecutors.

    We are told in Matthew 5:44 that we are to love our enemies, bless those who curse us, do good to those who hate us, and pray for those who spitefully us and persecute us – we do this, because we are God’s children (Matthew 5:45). This means that we will not go around telling everyone about what was said or done by our persecutors. It also means that we will not go around saying bad things about our persecutors; we will not do to them as they have done to us (Proverbs 24:29). We will be merciful and gracious, just as God is toward us and we will run to God, lay out our troubles before Him (consider 2 Kings 19:14-16), and ask Him for wisdom (James 1:5, 3:13-17) and for strength (Ephesians 6:10-18). We will get up from our prayers enveloped in God’s comfort (2 Corinthians 1:3-4) and with His peace guarding our hearts and our minds (Philippians 4:6-9), wholly prepared to bless and not curse.

Curse (Strong’s #2672 ‘kataraomai’) means to invoke evil upon, to pray for evil against another; to wish them harm or doom.

    We are to speak good words about others, not mentally plot revenge or daydream about their ultimate doom. Let’s make it our practice to go to God in prayer – just as Jesus did – and ask Him to renew our minds (so we are transformed and different than the world, Romans 12:2), and to help us to change from reactive to responsive, to feel pity for our persecutors instead of indignation. Let’s pray that we may see others as they truly are: souls in need of salvation. Let’s not hurt our hearts further by stewing and fretting (Psalm 37:7-8); instead let’s make our requests known to God and trust that He will help us to stand, withstand, and move forward in the best way possible.

“And who is he who will harm you if you become followers of what is good? But even if you should suffer for righteousness’ sake, you are blessed. “And do not be afraid of their threats, nor be troubled.” But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts, and always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear; having a good conscience, that when they defame you as evildoers, those who revile your good conduct in Christ may be ashamed. For it is better, if it is the will of God, to suffer for doing good than for doing evil.” (1 Peter 3:13-17 NKJV)

    We should rejoice that we have been found worthy to suffer shame for Jesus’ name, and be motivated to continue shining as lights in the world and in doing good works (Matthew 5:16, also see Titus 2:8). In appreciation of God’s longsuffering with us, we will suffer long and be kind (1 Corinthians 13:4) desiring the same thing He desires: that all should come to repentance (2 Peter 3:9) and that all men be saved and come to the knowledge of the truth (1 Timothy 2:3-4). Valuing God’s mercy and grace, we will pray that those who trouble us may get the help they need and that they may turn to God and come to know the hope found only in Jesus.   

    Much of what remains in this chapter will magnify this command, so let’s leave our thoughts here. Obedience to this command takes commitment and self-control, and God has provided all we need so we can learn to respond appropriately to our persecutors instead of reacting in kind. Are you ready?

You can do it! So can I!!

A Study of Romans 12 – Verses 10-13: A Summary

Note: I’m a Bible student just like you. I read and study, reread and restudy passages. Sometimes, as in this very study of Romans 12, I write a few posts and then something suddenly connects and I understand the passage more clearly or I see another facet of it that amplifies its value and importance. I get so excited about these discoveries that I want to share them immediately, and this impulsive enthusiasm can cause confusion and extra-long posts for you to read – for that I humbly apologize. If the Lord wills, and I decide to publish this study as a class book or a personal study book, you can be assured that it will be more organized than how I am currently writing and presenting it. Thank you for bearing with me as we study this exciting chapter together.

    Now, I think it is worthwhile to take a breath and take the time to again look at the importance of Romans 12:10-13.

    Romans 12, verses 10 through 13 are one sentence and one thought. We are given the command, “Be kindly affectionate to one another with brotherly love,” and the nine instructions that follow, when put into action, will enable us to accomplish that command.   

We will be kindly affectionate to one another with brotherly love…

…when we give preference to one another – showing our brethren that they matter and are a valuable part of the congregation/work by taking time to listen, sorrow, rejoice, study, and pray with them; thinking of them more than ourselves (1 Corinthians 12:25-26, Romans 12:15, James 5:13-20).

…when we do not lag in diligence – having an earnest determination to do what God commands and instructs, so much so that our brethren can count on us/trust us to work alongside them (consider 1 John 5:2-3, Hebrews 10:35-39). When there is work to be done we will join in the effort.

…when we are fervent in spirit – having an unshakeable faith and trust in God can encourage others to “taste and see that the LORD is good” (Psalm 34:8). We need to build a foundation – by the renewing of our minds in obedience to His word and will – through which we prove to ourselves (and others) that God’s will is good and acceptable and perfect (Romans 12:1-2, Matthew 24:12-13). Enthusiasm is contagious and when it is founded in truth and unshakeable trust, it’s an excellent way to share the glories of the gospel with others, and reinvigorate those who already know!   

…when we are serving the Lord – our determined diligence and fervent spirit keeps us serving God acceptably with reverence and godly fear (Hebrews 12:28), and we are a good example and steady encouragement to our brethren (1 Timothy 4:12, 15-16).

…when we are rejoicing in hope – storms will come (Matthew 7:24-27), but our hope is firmly anchored in God (Hebrews 6:17-20), trusting in His promises in this life (1 Corinthians 1:3-4, Philippians 4:6-9, Hebrews 4:16) and His exceedingly great and precious promise of life beyond this life (1 Peter 1:3-9, 2 Peter 1:2-11, 1 John 3:1-3). Our joy is magnified and multiplied when we can rejoice in hope with our brethren – we remind each other of our hope and build each other up as we prepare ourselves for eternity!   

…when we are patient in tribulation – “a threefold cord is not quickly broken” (Ecclesiastes 4:12); when we are with our brethren, we can, with God, withstand that which threatens to overpower us (Ephesians 6:10-18, 1 Peter 5:8-11); we can bear up under the burden with elegance (Psalm 144:12), knowing God is with us (1 Peter 2:23) and blessing us every step of the way (Psalm 68:19).

…when we continue steadfastly in prayer – we don’t give up on prayer, we continue in it without ceasing (1 Thessalonians 5:17, Luke 18:1-7), and are vigilant in our earnest prayers with thanksgiving (Colossians 4:2-3). We can pray for our brethren (making intercession for them) and for those who have dedicated themselves to preaching (Ephesians 6:18-19).  

…when we are distributing to the needs of the saints – having a heart to provide what is needed for our brethren, whether material or spiritual, we do what we can to fill the need. When we first give ourselves to the Lord, we will be more willing and able to give to our brethren in their need (2 Corinthians 8:1-5, Acts 2:41-46). We will pray, study, comfort, and listen; we will cook, clean, garden, wash windows, and drive. We will show up and we will give support, and when needed we will provide monetary help (Romans 12:6-8, 2 Corinthians 9:7-12, 1 Timothy 6:17-19, Acts 4:32-37).  

…when we are given to hospitality – we open our heart and our home to others, we share God’s blessings with them – actually, we insist upon it (Acts 16:15) – wanting to comfort, edify, and ease the burden of travel and/or expense. We invite our brethren into our homes – especially if they seem like strangers to us! – and we are quick to welcome visitors to a meal and, if you have the room, a place to sleep (Matthew 25:34-46). We strive to keep the visiting preachers so that they have not only a place for quiet study, but also a place to be edified with sincere care.   

    God, in His wisdom (Ephesians 3:10), established the church so that we could have the ready help we need to walk the narrow way (Matthew 7:13-14), so we can run with endurance the race that is set before us (Hebrews 12:1-2), so we can wholly understand what kindly affection with brotherly love means – and clearly see how it differs from the meagre affections of the world. Our brethren are our help and our training ground – together we can learn to properly obey God!

    In Romans 12:10-13, we have both the command and the instructions needed to accomplish it - are you ready to begin?

You can do it! So can I!!

Study of Romans 12 – Verse 13

    In Romans 12:10, God, through the apostle Paul, commands us to be kindly affectionate to one another with brotherly love, He then lovingly provides us with nine instructions (found in verses 10 through 13) that will enable us to accomplish that command.

    We’ve looked at the first seven in previous posts, now let’s look at the last two instructions:

“…distributing to the needs of the saints, given to hospitality.” (Romans 12:13 NKJV)

“…distributing to the needs of the saints…”

Distributing (Strong’s #G2841 ‘koinoneo’) means contributing, having a share in, partake in providing, and imparting.

Needs (Strong’s #G5532 ‘chreia’) means necessity, lack, and requirements. This can mean a lack of physical essentials: food, clothing, and also spiritual needs: study, encouragement, prayer, etc.

Saints (Strong’s #G40 ‘hagios’) means those who are holy, set apart, sacred; i.e. members of the church – Christians (1 Corinthians 1:2, Romans 1:7)

    We need to be familiar enough with our brethren – and trusted enough by them – that we can see (or be told of) a need they may have and we will do our very best to quietly and tactfully fill it. Our hearts need to be tuned toward our brethren – giving preference to them – so that we can offer them essential help, both material and spiritual, which means that we do not make a habit of rushing out of the building as soon as the “amen” is said, nor do we limit our speaking and interactions to only the times when we’re both inside the church building; it means we call, we sincerely care, and we stay connected so we can be there for them when they need us. 

    Simply put, when it comes to your time and attention, have a heart to give what is right to your brethren, not what is left. 

“…given to hospitality.”

Given to (Strong’s #G1377 ‘dioko’) means to practice, pursue, chase, press toward (as to a goal) with urgent determination. In this verse in particular, it means to insist – Lydia is the perfect example of this in Acts 16:15

Hospitality (Strong’s #G5381 ‘philoxenia’) literally means a friend to strangers (consider Hebrews 13:2). It is welcoming and providing shelter, food, and protection for strangers, which was a cultural obligation in the Greco Roman world.

    The word, hospitality, is only used here in Romans 12:13 and in the above referenced Hebrews 13:2, but it is seen throughout the New Testament in various ways; by instruction: Matthew 10:42, 25:34-46, Luke 10: 30-37, 14:12-14, etc. and by example: Luke 10:38-42, Acts 2:44-46, 4:32-37, 16:15, 40, 17:5-9, etc.

    If you feel that your brethren are strangers to you, invite them over for coffee, a meal, or a visit; learn hospitality by showing it toward your brethren and you’ll prepare yourself to also eagerly show it toward visitors at church services, and others in your community.

    Are you ready to open your heart and your home to your brethren in need? Are you eager to provide whatever is needed by your brethren? There may be times when the need requires a monetary solution, but more often than not it will simply require time together, encouraging words, earnest prayers together, and thoughtful study together; it will require kindly affection with brotherly love – are you ready?

You can do it! So can I!!

Study of Romans 12 – Verse 12

    Have you noticed that verses 10 through 13 are one sentence and one thought? In studying, reading, and rereading this passage, I have come to realize that we are given the command, “Be kindly affectionate to one another with brotherly love,” and it is followed by nine instructions that, when put into action, will enable us to accomplish that command.      

    We will be kindly affectionate with brotherly love when we give preference to one another (v10), when we do not lag in diligence (v11); when we are fervent in spirit (v11), and when we serve the Lord (v11); when we rejoice in hope (v12), are patient in tribulation (v12), and continue steadfastly in prayer (v12); when we distribute to the needs of the poor (v13), and when we are given to hospitality (v13).

    We have already studied the first four instructions for the command – here’s a quick review:

• When we give preference to one another and consider our brethren before ourselves, we show that we value them – that they are important to us and vital to the work.
• When we do not lag in diligence, our brethren will know they can count on us to work alongside them (Nehemiah 4:6, 2 Corinthians 8:5), and through our stick-to-itiveness, we may be able to encourage less involved brethren to become more active in the work and more dedicated in their service to God and to their brethren (Hebrews 10:24-25).
• When we are fervent in spirit we show that our motivation comes from our unshakeable convictions that God is, and that His way is the best way (Romans 12:1-2, 1 Corinthians 15:58); our inevitable growth will be evident to all (1 Timothy 4:12-16) as we cheerfully do our part in the work.
• When we serve the Lord, we prove our love for our brethren (read and think on 1 John 5:2-3). In serving the Lord, we show them that God is worthy of our every effort in obedience, that what He asks of us can be done, that it is always for our good, and that His blessings far outweigh any of our sacrifices. In serving the Lord we prepare ourselves to love our brethren with kindly affection!

    Now, let’s dig into the continuing instructions that will help us to obey the command to be kindly affectionate to one another with brotherly love:

“…rejoicing in hope. Patient in tribulation, continuing steadfastly in prayers…” (Romans 12:12 NKJV)

“…rejoicing in hope…”

    Rejoicing (Strong’s #G5463, ‘chairo’) means be glad, joyful with inner joy and delight. Consider Philippians 4:4.

    Hope (Strong’s #G1680, ‘elpis’) means expectation, trust, confidence, anticipation. Read and think on Psalm 16:8-9, 130: 5-6, and Romans 8:24-25

    So rejoicing in hope is letting your confident anticipation of God’s blessings in this life (and in the one to come, 1 John 3:1-3) fill you with a lasting joy and delight that buoys you in sorrows (Psalm 27:13-14, 34:), anchors you during the storms (Matthew 7:24-27), and overflows when you are with those who also share this hope (Philippians 1:3-4, 1 Peter 1:3-9).

“…patient in tribulation…”

    Patient (Strong’s #G5278 ‘hupomeno’) means enduring, persevering, remaining steadfast. Literally: remaining under the load, bearing up*. It means that we absolutely persevere through misfortunes and trials because we are holding fast to our faith and clinging to what is good.  

*Note: Take a moment to read Psalm 144:12. It is a stanza in David’s song to the LORD in which he asks to be rescued from enemies so that the sons of his people may grow as plants, and so their daughter’s may be as pillars, sculptured in palace style. It’s a prayer that the girls may grow up to be strong women who are able to bear up with elegance under life’s burdens. Read and think on 1 Peter 3:1-4 also.

    Tribulation (Strong’s #G2347 ‘thlipsis’) means affliction, distress, severe persecution, pressure, or oppression.

    How do you remain patient in tribulations? By practicing and developing patience in the various trials that test us throughout the day and allowing patience to have its perfect work so that we may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing (James 1:2-4). We can do this by keeping God and His benefits in our minds (Psalm 68:19, 103:1-2), knowing God is on His throne and is aware of our situation (Psalm 11:3-4, 7, Psalm 34, 1 Peter 2:2:23), knowing our brethren are counting on us to hold the line and not give opportunity to the devil (Psalm 4:4-5, 37:7-8, Ephesians 4:26-27, 6:10-13).

“…continuing steadfastly in prayer…”

    Continuing steadfastly (Strong’s #G4342 ‘proskartereo’) means to devote oneself, to persist in, to be strong and enduring towards, to give constant attention to (prayer). See 1 Thessalonians 5:17

    Prayer (Strong’s #G4335 ‘proseuche’) means a prayer (or vow) towards God. Communicating to God through supplication (earnest pleading for what is needed), intercession (asking help for others), thanksgiving, and adoration (praise).

    Communicating with God continually – never giving up on it – is a benefit to our brethren and shows our love for them in that it helps us develop as followers of Christ - so we can better help and serve them – AND it gives us opportunity to pray for each and every one of them; that God may help them reach their full potential.

    Rejoicing in hope will help us to be patient in tribulation (consider Philippians 4:4-8, 11-13) and keep us steadfast in prayer as we stay focused on what is truly important (Colossians 3:1-17). Continuing steadfastly in prayer will also fortify us to be patient in tribulation and it will remind us to rejoice in hope as we consider God, His goodness, and His power. Each part is necessary, each part supports and strengthens the others – and we cannot properly love our brethren without them!

    Are you rejoicing in hope? Are you patient in tribulations? Are you continuing steadfastly in prayer? If one of these is missing in your life it will be a struggle to accomplish the rest, and as a result you will be hard-pressed to love your brethren as you should. Think about these things this week and work at developing each one so that we can flourish in kindly affection and brotherly love for your brothers and sister in Christ!

You can do it! So can I!!  

   

Study of Romans 12 – Verse 11

    How are you doing, spiritually?

    Pause for a moment and consider: in comparison to how you were one year ago, five years ago, how are you doing?

Are you a more willing sacrifice, or are you growing irritated by ‘all you have to give up,’ ‘all you have to do’?

Have you continued to renew your mind through study and obedience, or have other interests got in the way?

Are you transformed (changed for the better - more like the Lord and less like the world), or has conformity kept you from the treasures found only in God and Jesus (Colossians 2:2-3)?

Are you using the abilities you have been blessed with to serve God and the church, or have you buried them to keep others from expecting too much from you?  

Has your love (for God, your brethren, your neighbour) improved, or grown cold (only words and no deeds)?

Are you better able to discern good from evil (Hebrews 5:14), or has your abhorrence for what is evil faded to a mild dislike and toleration?

Are you growing stronger in clinging to good, or has your clasp loosened and your attention focused elsewhere?

Has your affection for your brethren deepened, or dissipated? Have you sought out their best interests, or are you only seeking after your own?

    These are questions that are good to ask ourselves, often.  Am I fervent in my spirit in serving the Lord, or am I lagging in diligence?

“…not lagging in diligence, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord…” (Romans 12:11 NKJV)

“…not lagging in diligence…”

    Lagging (Strong’s Greek #3636 ‘okneros’) means slothful, hesitating, sluggish toward spiritual duties. It is a reluctance and an unwillingness to act promptly or with energy.

    Diligence (Strong’s Greek #4710 ‘spoude’) means earnestness, zeal, and effort in fulfilling a task or duty, earnestness in accomplishing or striving after something. Consider 2 Corinthians 7:11-12 (“what diligence… what vehement desire”), 2 Corinthians 8:7 (“abound in all diligence”), Romans 12:8 (“he who leads, with diligence”), and 2 Peter 1:5-11 (“giving all diligence… be even more diligent”).

 “…fervent in spirit…”

    Fervent (Strong’s Greek #2204 ‘zeo’) means to boil, to be hot, have intense passion, eagerness in one’s faith and spiritual life. Apollos was described as being “fervent in spirit” in Acts 18:25; a man who spoke and taught accurately the things of the Lord.

    In spirit (Strong’s Greek #4151 ‘pneuma’) means being motivated in or by our spirit; the vital principle in which the body is animated. In other words: be eager in your motivation, have a readiness to obey God (and to respond to another’s need).

    Where are we not to lag in diligence and where are we to be motivated from the very core of our being to do what is needed? In serving the Lord.

    How do we keep ourselves from lagging in diligence and how are we to remain motivated from the very core of our being to do what is needed?  By serving the Lord.

“And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him… And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not to men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance; for your serve the Lord Christ.” (Colossians 3:17, 23-24 NKJV)

    Nothing is as fulfilling as doing what God has given us to do – to be a help to others and grow in the grace and knowledge of Christ (2 Peter 3:18). These benefit us mentally/emotionally, physically, and, of course, spiritually; it is the most satisfying way to use our time and abilities!

    Are you serving the Lord with a fervent spirit – motivated to do all that is asked of you? What He asks of us is not too much – it is for our good always (Deuteronomy 6:24-25).

    Are you diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed (2 Timothy 2:15)?

“And we desire that each one of you show the same diligence to the full assurance of hope until the end, that you do not become sluggish, but imitate those who through faith and patience inherit the promises…. This hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and steadfast, and which enters the Presence behind the veil...” (Hebrews 6:11-12, 19 NJKV)

    Look to God for motivation – you will find it! His promises are real – trust Him! His word is glorious, life-changing and life-bettering – look to it daily for instruction and for examples of those who lived and served with diligence and fervent spirits; let these motivate you toward doing your part so that you, too, can be an example to those around you of one who does not lag in diligence, but who is fervent in spirit, serving the Lord!  

You can do it! So can I!!

Study of Romans 12 – Verse 10

"Be kindly affectionate to one another with brotherly love, in honour giving preference to one another.” (NKJV)

“Be kindly affectionate in one another with brotherly love…”

    Kindly affectionate (Strong’s Greek #5387 ‘philostorgos’) means devoted, loving dearly with a deep, instinctive love one might have for family members. This term is only found in Romans 12:10.

    Brotherly love (Strong’s Greek 5360 ‘philadelphia’) means love like that between siblings with kindness, compassion, and support. Verses where this term is found: 1 Thessalonians 4:9, Hebrews 13:1, 1 Peter 1:22, 2 Peter 1:7

    We are a family in Christ (1 John 3:1-2, Romans 12:5); in Him we are all sons of God through faith (Galatians 3:26). We are to speak to older men in the congregation as fathers, older women as mothers, younger men as brothers, and younger women as sisters, with all purity (1 Timothy 5:1-2).

    We are to be devoted – loving and loyal – to our brothers and sisters in Christ. We are to care for them as we would a blood relation: as we would immediately reach out our hand to prevent our child, spouse, or parent from falling, so we will willingly do all that you can to keep any one of our brethren from stumbling or falling (ex: Galatians 6:1). We will be determined to support and encourage them in their walk – and they, in obedience to this command, do the same for us.

“…in honour, giving preference to one another.”

    In honour (Strong’s Greek #5092 ‘time’) means that you value and respect the other, that you see them as outranking you and therefore worthy of your esteem.

    Giving preference (Strong’s Greek #4285 ‘progeomai’) means to consider others more important. The Greek word progeomai comes from two words: ‘pro’ that means before, and ‘hegeomai’ that means to consider so, together, they mean to consider others before yourself; to prioritize the needs and well-being of others (in your congregation).

    We need to see our brethren as family members who have great value and are therefore valuable to us. We need to treat them with respect, and be willing to set ourselves aside so that we can give them an attentive listening ear, a reliable helping hand, a sincere heart full of compassionate care, and a mind steadied and readied by God’s word so we are able to encourage and guide them toward not only staying the course but also flourishing in their faith and obedience. 

“Be kindly affectionate to one another with brotherly love, in honour giving preference to one another.” (NKJV)

    This is all part of being a living sacrifice, a person transformed and renewed – each day choosing God’s way over your own way; over the ways of the world. When you do what God says, and when you happily use the abilities He has given you; your humble, joy-filled obedience will prove to others that His will is good and acceptable and perfect. You will put off your former conduct – abhor what is evil - and put on the new man created according to God in true righteousness and holiness (Ephesians 4:21-24) – cling to what is good – and you will learn to love others with a sincere heart and hands ready to help (1 John 3:16-19). You will consider others and value others – this should also increase your dedication; wanting to serve God with others who are serving Him. Consider 2 Timothy 2:22 and Hebrews 10:24-25 – and you will choose to be a benefit to your brethren over thinking only of yourself. You will begin to look forward to church services, taking with you a mind that desires to be filled up with God’s word, and a heart that looks around and asks, “What can I do to help my brethren today?”     

Are you ready?

You can do it! So can I!!

Study of Romans 12 – Verse 9

“Let love be without hypocrisy. Abhor what is evil. Cling to what is good.” (Romans 12:9 NKJV)

    Three small sentences. Three direct commands. Let’s understand them better so we can obey them better.

“Let love be without hypocrisy.”

    Love, in this verse, is ‘agape’ – the benevolent, selfless love that seeks the best interests of the other person. Agape love is not based on feelings; it is a choice, a determined commitment to the well-being of others. In the Greco-Roman culture, power and self-interest were valued, so this selfless, sacrificial love was something new and quite different.

    This sacrificial, benevolent love is to be without hypocrisy.

    The phrase without hypocrisy comes from a single word in the Greek language: ‘anupokritos’ (Strong’s Greek #505). The ‘a’ at the beginning of the word means ‘not’ and the remainder of the word (‘nupokritos’) means ‘actor or hypocrite,’ so without hypocrisy means ‘not an actor.’ An actor is someone who wears a mask and deceives; making us believe they are something other than what they truly are.

    Our love is to be without hypocrisy. We are not to say we love and then do the opposite – consider 1 John 3:18 – we are to show our love through sincere, caring deeds.

    Our love for God needs to be sincere. We say we love Him, then we show that we love Him: by holding fast to Him (Deuteronomy 13:4), by always going to Him in prayer (Philippians 4:6-7, 1 Thessalonians 5:17), by listening to His commands (in His word, James 1:21-27), and by doing what He says (John 14:15, 21, 1 John 5:2-3); we will also praise Him (Psalm 92:1-2, 1 Peter 2:9) glorify Him (Matthew 5:16, John 15:5-8).

    Our love for our brethren (and all others) needs to be sincere. When we say we will visit them, pray for them, call/message/text them, we need to do it. We help bear the burden of difficulties (Galatians 6:2) by being there for them. We each do our part (Ephesians 4:16), we prove ourselves to be reliable and trustworthy through our conduct. We see a need and we do what we can to fill it (2 Corinthians 9:7-8). Another way to show love for our brethren (and others) is to commit ourselves to God and do what He says, so that we can be a good example (1 Timothy 4:12-13), a wise counsel (James 3:13-17), and a true help to them (1 John 5:2-3).

    We need to back up our words with sincere, careful conduct. Actions always speak louder than words. Does your conduct back up your words, or are you playing the hypocrite? Are you acting a part for the sake of politeness or habit, then forget what you've said as soon as the moment passes? I know that I’ve been guilty of this very thing, maybe you have been too. Let’s determine to work on this so our love can be sincere.

“Abhor what is evil.”

    Abhor means to detest, to utterly hate, to loath, to be repulsed by. We need to utterly hate what is evil; we are to reject sin and any form of unrighteousness, wholly and completely.

    The evil that we are to detest is anything bad, wicked, or malicious. This includes both actions and intentions that are morally wrong or harmful, anything that goes against God’s commands.

    Again, in the Greco-Roman culture, anyone who created chaos or disorder in society was considered ‘evil,’ but to Christians it was anyone/anything that was in opposition to God’s will and His righteousness.

    We need to be careful that we do not call evil good and good evil (see Isaiah 5:20-21). We need to study God’s word and do what it says so that we can learn to accurately discern both good and evil (Hebrews 5:14).

    Are you willing to utterly hate evil?

“Cling to what is good.”

    Cling means to join, to cleave, to unite, to adhere. It comes from a word that means to glue together.

    When Romans 12:9 states that we are to cling to what is good, God, through the apostle Paul, is commanding us to give ourselves entirely to good, to labour for it, to be joined and fastened firmly together with good.

    Consider the relationship of a husband and wife (Matthew 19:4-6) – they are to be joined together, they cling to one another, they labour for one another and selflessly love one another for their lifetime because they are united before God in marriage. We understand what kind of bond that is in God’s eyes, so when He tells us that we are to cling to what is good, we are not to let go of good (or of doing good); we are to join ourselves to the commitment of doing what is good for the rest of our lives.

    Three small sentences. Three direct commands. How can our love be without hypocrisy? God, in His wisdom, gave us the answer: by abhorring what is evil and clinging to what is good! The more we cling to good the more we will come to abhor evil; the more we cling to good and abhor evil the more sincere our hearts will become! We will grow to love – in deed and in truth – from a sincere heart!  

    Be sincere in your love for God – let your love for Him be without hypocrisy by abhorring what is evil and clinging to what is good! Be sincere in your love for your brethren and all others by abhorring what is evil and clinging to what is good.

Let love be without hypocrisy. Abhor what is evil. Cling to what is good.

You can do it! So can I!! 

Study of Romans 12 – Verses 4-8

    Recalling our study from last week – how “God has dealt to each one a measure of faith” (v3), how we need to be merciful to one another just as God has been merciful to us, and how we need to use our strengths for good, in helping those who are weak – let’s now look at the next five verses that teach us how to use the different abilities we have been blessed with: 

“For as we have many members in one body, but all the members do not have the same function, so we, being many, are one body in Christ, and individually members of one another. Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, let us use them: if prophecy, let us prophesy in proportion to our faith; or ministry, let us use it in our ministering; he who teaches, in teaching; he who exhorts, in exhortation; he who gives, with liberality; he who leads with diligence; he who shows mercy, with cheerfulness.” (Romans 12:4-8 NKJV)

“For as we have many members in one body, but all the members do not have the same function…”

    Being women, we know this distinctly; we do not have the exact same function in the church as our brothers in Christ (1 Corinthians 14:34-36, 1 Timothy 2:11-12). God has given us abilities though, and we are to use them for good within the realm that He has given to us (consider 1 Timothy 2:9-10, Titus 2:3-5, 1 Peter 3:1-6).

    We don’t all have the same function. Some men preach and teach, but we can be attentive to their sermons/lessons and encourage them in that effort (1 Thessalonians 5:12-13). Some may be excellent at talking to people in the community and inviting them to services, others may be capable to of making those who visit feel welcome. Some can work at sowing the seed, while others can water (1 Corinthians 3:6).  When we are knit together by what every joint supplies, according to the effective working by which every part does its share, we will grow together in love (Ephesians 4:16) and in service!    

“…so we, being many, are one body in Christ, and individually members of one another.”

    When a person is buried in baptism (fully immersed in water for the remission of their sins, Acts 2:37-38), they are baptized into Christ (Romans 6:3-4, Galatians 3:26-28); they become members of His body (1 Corinthians 12:12-13), which is the church (Ephesians 1:22-23).

    Take time just now to read and think on 1 Corinthians 12:1-31. We all have different functions, but we need to “have the same care for one other” (a.k.a. mercy, compassion, concern). We need to always be mindful of the weaker members so that we can guard them (as they grow stronger) and bear their burdens (stand with them as they go through trials, Galatians 1:1-3); we need to give them “greater honour,” which means we give them more respect, time, and attention – consider how a husband is to dwell with his wife with understanding, giving honour to her, as to a weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the grace of life (1 Peter 3:7) – that is how the church behaves toward its weaker members, as well.

    Another passage to read and think on is Ephesians 4:1-32. Each one of us need to walk worthy of the calling, endeavour to keep the unity of the Spirit, and do our part. Each one of us need to be renewed in the spirit of our mind and put on the new man created according to God in true righteousness and holiness; we need to get rid of sinful habits – for we are members of one another; it’s not just about us anymore – we are living sacrifices, we have denied self – we remind ourselves daily that what we do/don’t do affects others in the church, affects the church’s reputation in the community, and affects how others think about God and His way. Being of Christ’s body, we represent Him to the world; we must work together – be a benefit, not a hindrance, to the work – we must do and say what is good so that our brethren are edified.

“Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, let us use them…”

    Not every member is a preacher, or an elder, or a deacon, but we each have abilities that allow us to do good within the parameters God has given to us.

    We each can use our abilities to be a benefit to others:

• If you have ability to serve and provide help to others, look for opportunities to serve others (Galatians 6:9-10, Matthew 25:34-40). Example: Visit, cook/bake, clean house, do yardwork, etc. for those who are sick or elderly.
• If you are able to teach, teach the younger women, as God instructed (Titus 2:3-5)
• If you have an ability to urge people toward better service, do it with all your heart (1 Thessalonians 5:11, Hebrews 10:24-25). Example: face to face words of encouragement, a phone call, write a heartfelt card or text, etc.
• If you have ability to give, be generous in your giving (2 Corinthians 9:7-8). Example: provide help (material and/or monetary) to those in difficulties, provide financial support to preachers, etc.
• If you are a natural leader, lead with a determination to be a good example to other women (Titus 2:3-5, 1 Timothy 4:12-16)
• If you are merciful, be cheerful in it, don’t hold a grudge or keep a record of wrongs (1 Corinthians 13:4-8)

“And whatever you do, do it heartily as to the Lord and not to men.” (Colossians 3:23 NKJV)

    We have all been given an ability, your ability may not be the same as mine, but we both need to use what we have been given. Think about what you are able to do, and look for opportunities to use your abilities to benefit others and bring glory to God (Matthew 5:16).

You can do it! So can I!!

Study of Romans 12 – Verse 3

“For I say, through the grace given to me, to everyone who is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think soberly, as God has dealt to each one a measure of faith.” (Romans 12:3 NKJV)

Be Merciful Just as God Has Been Merciful to You

    At the beginning of this chapter, Paul wanted the brethren in Rome to remember God’s mercy – His mercy shown to both the Jews and the Gentiles in giving them the gospel, the “good news” of Jesus the Christ and the hope found only through Him (Romans 1:16, 2:1-16, and 11:28-32).  

    When we meditate on God’s mercy, realizing all He has done for us because He loves us; how He gave us His Son, who died to set us free from sin, how He determined beforehand that all families of the earth would be blessed by Jesus (Genesis 12:3) – how all would have access to the gospel and to “all things that pertain to life and godliness” (2 Peter 1:3); when we meditate on that, then we will willingly become living sacrifices, letting God’s word renew our minds and we will be transformed into people who are holy and acceptable to God, and we will prove His will to be good and acceptable and perfect!  

“…not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think soberly…”

    More highly means arrogantly, haughtily, to esteem oneself overmuch; more than is proper, to be vain.

    Think soberly means to be modest (in thought and feeling), to not let one’s opinion of himself (though just) to exceed the bounds of modesty (as shown within the Bible, consider 1 Thessalonians 4:11-12, 1 Timothy 2:9-10, 1 Peter 2:3-6). It means to have sound judgment, balanced, and disciplined, with thoughts and actions governed by wisdom and prudence.

    In meditating on God’s mercy, we will be better able to maintain a proper humility/humbleness – understanding who God is and who we are before Him - and we should also develop a greater capacity for showing mercy to others (Luke 6:35-36).

 “…God has dealt to each one a measure of faith”

    Think of Jesus’ parable of the talents in Matthew 25:14-30. One man was given five talents, another was given two, and the other only one. Each man had a responsibility to use what they had been given; each one was expected to end up with more than they started with. When we apply this to the matter of our faith, God gives some a large quantity of faith – they readily believe and willingly obey and continue to grow and develop as they learn through study and application. To others, He has given a different measure: they may hear of God, but they need to understand Him and His way (i.e. they need to see that His way is good and acceptable and perfect), then they will commit themselves to Him and His way, and continue to grow and develop in their walk. Then to others God has given a smaller measure: They hear about God, His power and might, and they believe but they are fearful of Him, and because of that fear (and their fear of doing differently than what they have always done) they don’t develop their faith beyond the point of simply believing that God exists. But we are each to develop whatever measure we were given – for some it will be easier, for others it will require effort – but, again, this is where being merciful and compassionate toward others, like God is toward us, comes into effect: those who are strong need to be helping those who are weak! Those full of faith should be examples in both word and deed to those who need God and His way to be proven, and to those who have focused on only one facet of God. Wherever we are in our faith, we need to keep going and keep growing so that we can help others to do the same!        

    Remember, not everyone has the same background, or the same upbringing. Not everyone has the same capacity to reason or understand. Not everyone has the same learning style (some are visual, some are aural/hearing, others learn through reading/writing, or through doing/hands-on). We each have our own strengths and weaknesses (both physically and spiritually), not everyone has been given the same measure of faith, so we need to be careful not to look down on a brother of sister who is weak where we are strong; instead we must help them (see Romans 15:1-2, Galatians 6:1-3). It may be that our weaker brother or sister is strong in areas that we need help, and they in turn can help us (read and think on Ephesians 4:15-16). If we are proud and unmerciful, looking down on others and/or criticizing their weakness, we are creating an obstacle that will prevent the body from functioning as it should.

    Think daily on the mercy God has shown to you. Appreciate your strengths in that they allow you to be a benefit to others, but remain aware of your own weaknesses and always lean on God for His help (2 Corinthians 12:7-10, Hebrews 4:16). Take time to read and consider Luke 18:9-14. Determine that from wherever you are right now that you will begin to grow and develop your faith, that you will seek God and submit to Him, wholly trusting that His way is the best way!

You can do it! So can I!!