Those of you who were in this group last semester will remember that this chapter is what prompted our journey into Romans this semester. It holds a special place for me because of that and I am really looking forward to discussing this again (and anew) with everyone.
Also, this week's reading of Romans chapter 12 marks our entry into the last section of Romans. In the first 11 chapters, Paul has set out what to believe by highlighting our sinfulness, and how to receive forgiveness through faith. In the last 4 chapters, he talks about how to behave by giving guidelines for living as redeemed people in a fallen world.
Here are some questions and applications to think through for next week.
1. Name one aspect of the 'pattern of this world' that is currently tempting you to conform to it. Is there any specific way you can apply Romans 12:1-2 with regard to the temptation you named? Make a list of ways you still conform to the world, and ask the Holy Spirit to transform your mind with regard to these. Find Scriptures to meditate on to help you.
2. What kinds of needs are the gifts Paul named in 12:6-8 designed to meet? How could you participate in meeting one or more of those needs? Write down a function in our church or the larger Body of Christ that you either are fulfilling now or are able to fulfill. If necessary, ask God to show you at least one function for which He has gifted you.
3. Based on Romans 12:9, if our love must be 'sincere', should we not do loving acts unless we feel affectionate towards someone? In what ways is Christian love more than just emotion? (See 1 John 3:17-18) Ask God to show you if your love is insincere in any way. Mediate on Romans 12:9-21 and look for opportunities to act in sincere love this week.
4. How can we be sure that our kindness to our enemies stems from sincere love and not a desire to make them feel guilty? (Romans 12:19-20)
Blog on!
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
No comments:
Post a Comment