The Word

14 Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse.15 Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep.16 Be of the same mind toward one another; do not be haughty in mind, but associate with the lowly. Do not be wise in your own estimation.17 Never pay back evil for evil to anyone. Respect what is right in the sight of all men.18 If possible, so far as it depends on you, be at peace with all men.19 Never take your own revenge, beloved, but leave room for the wrath of God, for it is written, “VENGEANCE IS MINE, I WILL REPAY,” says the Lord.20 ”BUT IF YOUR ENEMY IS HUNGRY, FEED HIM, AND IF HE IS THIRSTY, GIVE HIM A DRINK; FOR IN SO DOING YOU WILL HEAP BURNING COALS ON HIS HEAD.”21 Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.

Romans 12:14-21 (NASB)

What is it saying?

  • Don’t retaliate when wronged. God will judge them.
  • Share joy and sorrow of others.
  • Don’t consider yourself above anyone.
  • When possible, be at peace with everyone.
  • Overcome evil with good.

What does it mean?

  • See Matthew 5:38-47 for similar ideas.
  • Response to Evil
    • Bless them
    • Respect what is right
    • Be at peace
    • Never take your own revenge
    • Meet the needs of the enemy. Why are they doing what they’re doing?
  • All are ways to avoid being overcome by evil, and instead use good to overcome evil you’ve been subjected to.
  • The goal isn’t getting even, but repentance.
  • It’s God’s place to determine the punishment for evil.

What am I going to do with it?

  • What is my response to being wronged? I may not actively seek out retaliation, but I want it to be clear that I have been wronged. That means I’m more concerned with judgement than peace and repentance.
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Romans

January 13, 2012

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