When In Rome Part Two

Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in 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 the Lord’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 everyone. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. Do not take revenge, my dear 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.

- Romans 12: 9-21


Questions:

- what are you to hate?

- are people to be hated?

- how are you supposed to live with others?

- are you to ever curse another person?

- how are you to treat an enemy?

- is revenge ever an option?

- how are you to treat those who mistreat you?

- who is the One who repays / avenges?

- how are you to respond to evil?

- what does it mean to not be overcome by evil?

- can war, fighting, curses be justified by followers of Christ?