Rules for Christian Living
Rules for Christian Living
Have you ever wondered what the behavior and actions of a genuine Christian look like?
The Apostle Paul, inspired by the Holy Spirit, gives us a clear and practical picture in Romans 12. This passage serves as a blueprint for Christian living—full of wisdom, humility, and grace.
Romans 12:9–21 (NKJV)
Let love be without hypocrisy.
Abhor what is evil. Cling to what is good.
Be kindly affectionate to one another with brotherly love,
in honor giving preference to one another;
not lagging in diligence, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord;
rejoicing in hope, patient in tribulation, continuing steadfastly in prayer;
distributing to the needs of the saints, given to hospitality.
Bless those who persecute you;
bless and do not curse.
Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep.
Be of the same mind toward one another.
Do not set your mind on high things,
but associate with the humble.
Do not be wise in your own opinion.
Repay no one evil for evil.
Have regard for good things in the sight of all men.
If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men.
Beloved, do not avenge yourselves,
but rather give place to wrath; for it is written,
"Vengeance is Mine, I will repay," says the Lord.
Therefore:
"If your enemy is hungry, feed him;
If he is thirsty, give him a drink;
For in so doing you will heap coals of fire on his head."
Do not be overcome by evil,
but overcome evil with good.
The epistles are commentary on the gospels, written by the apostles and other leaders of the apostolic church. All these rules elaborate on Jesus’s command in Matthew 7:12 to treat others the way that we want to be treated. Sin splatters. Individuals that neglect these rules will inflict physical and emotional pain on others. A family without these rules will fall apart. Without these holy affections, churches will collapse. As goes this church, so goes society. If we do not live these commands out, then our gospel witness will be dulled, and the Lord will find other people to advance his kingdom. Let us pledge to follow these rules as we work out our salvation with fear and trembling so our spiritual growth bubbles over to the glory of God in this wicked world.
Soli Deo Gloria
