Romans 12:14-21

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TALKS FOR GROWING CHRISTIANS

Guidelines on How to Relate to Unbelievers

BACKGROUND NOTES



DOCTRINAL POINT(S)

  1. The godly believer practices the biblical guidelines for peace with fellow men. These guidelines are:
    a) don't badmouth people
    b) do identify with people
    c) don't think you are better than other people
    d) don't try to get back at people
    e) do avoid suspicion of people
    f) do strive for peace
    g) do let God zap people
    h) overcome the evil of people with good.

PRACTICAL APPLICATION

  1. Your kindness will have an affect on the unbeliever.

QUESTIONS

  1. Cite a biblical example of the first guideline.

  2. How could you practice the second guideline?

  3. How could you practice the third guideline?

  4. What should you do when you are hurt by someone?

  5. How can you avoid being suspicious of people?

ANSWERS

  1. Stephen, when he was being stoned to death. See Acts 7:59-60. The Lord Jesus, when he was being crucified. See Luke 23:34.

  2. Be glad when a fellow worker is promoted, rather than being jealous.

  3. Associate with those who may be ostracized by others. In other words, don't be proud of your social status.

  4. Don't retaliate, lest you become bitter. Pray, and let the Lord handle it.

  5. By regarding good things, and be careful to do what is right yourself, in the little things. For example, do not take supplies from the office for your personal use.

DISCUSS/CONSIDER

  1. Do you consciously strive for peace, even when you are maligned or taken advantage of? Insomuch as possible, try to live with others in peace.

  2. "Vengeance is Mine,' saith the Lord." Do you let God handle all your tough situations?

CHALLENGE

  1. The Apostle Paul urges believes to live a godly life on a personal, individual level. Then we move on to relate to both fellow believers and unbelievers in a positive way. Is this your desire and goal?

KEY VERSES

  • "Inasmuch as possible, live peaceably with all men." Romans 12:18

  • "Do not avenge yourselves...for it is written, 'Vengeance is Mine, I will repay, says the Lord." Romans 12:19

  • "If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him a drink." Romans 12:20

  • "Overcome evil with good." Romans 12:21



Romans, Talks, New TestamentDeb HarmsRomans 12:14-21