“Romans 12”

Sunday, February 12, 2017

Romans 12 begins what many have referred to as “the practical part” of the letter. Some would define chapters 1-11 as “doctrinal,” while calling chapters 12-16 as “practical.” It would be more accurate to say that the first 11 chapters of Romans have laid the foundational principles upon which applications are then made in the final 5 chapters.

Romans 12 is one of the most challenging chapters in all of the New Testament. It presents us with one responsibility after another in discussing our relationship with God and with each other as disciples. It is entirely possible that a Christian could spend his entire life, just trying to obey the duties outlined in this chapter.

Paul begins by telling us to present our bodies as living sacrifices to God. We are not to allow the world to pressure us into conformity, but rather to be changed or transformed into the image of Christ.

He points out that we are not all the same. We all have different abilities and opportunities. But whatever our unique circumstance may be, we are to do all we can to serve God and our fellow man.

The apostle speaks of many of our personal obligations before God, including brotherly love, honoring one another, being hospitable, being a blessing to others, rejoicing and weeping with each other and remaining humble in our service to Him.

The chapter ends by reminding us that we are not to be vengeful, angry people. Rather we are to be at peace with others, in every way we possibly can. God will avenge all wrong doing. We have a responsibility to overcome evil with good, not to repay evil with evil. Two wrongs never make a right.

--Roger Hillis

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