Off the Shelf Sunday School--Romans

Christian Service (12:9-21)

Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Share with God’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality. Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited. Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everybody. If it is possible, as far as it depends upon you, live at peace with everyone. Do not take revenge, my friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” says the Lord. On the contrary: “If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.” Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.        

1.        Paul says that Christians are to love others in a way that is genuine and reflects their desire to do good for others. It should not be to gain something by doing something good. What are some examples of Christian good works that are sincere and some that are motivated by reputation or rewards?   

2.        Christians are to have strong negative feelings about evil deeds, thoughts and emotions. What are some examples (and how do you overcome them)?

3.        Christians are to serve each other and treat others with respect. Being humble is having the attitude of a servant and doing good for others without drawing attention to oneself. (Lk 14:11; Phil 2:5-8)

4.        Zeal and spiritual fervor are expressions Paul uses to describe energetic enthusiasm for the gospel and love for God. Experiencing the presence of God, his love and his pleasure in response to our obedience are ways that this zeal is maintained. What are some ways that we can experience God and maintain spiritual enthusiasm?

5.        Christians are to live in peace with others. They are to be people of good reputation who forgive others and do not keep grudges. Those who lived under the Old Testament laws exacted revenge. However, Jesus taught his disciples to be peace makers and be merciful to others because God has been merciful. (Mt 5:38-42; Jas 3:17-18)

6.        Being gentle and kind in response to being abused can convict those who do evil and cause them to change their ways. This is one way that good behavior can overcome evil behavior. However, some people are so steeped in evil habits that they have seared their conscience. These people refuse to acknowledge and repent of their evil ways. God will bring terrible punishment upon them which is like coals of fire upon their heads. (1 Tim 4:1-2)