A Portrait of a Genuine Christian (Part 2) (Romans 12:14-21)

Romans 12:14-21 is a passage that focuses on how believers should respond to those who oppose or mistreat them. This passage provides practical instructions for Christians on how to live out their faith in the face of adversity and persecution.

Verse 14 begins with the command to "bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse them." The word "bless" here is translated from the Greek word "eulogeo," which means to speak well of or praise. This implies that believers should respond to persecution with kindness and compassion, rather than retaliating or seeking revenge. The phrase "do not curse them" emphasizes the importance of avoiding negative or harmful speech, and instead choosing to speak words of blessing and encouragement.

Verse 15 continues with the command to "rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep." This suggests that believers should have a spirit of empathy and compassion towards others, and seek to share in their joys and sorrows. This implies that Christians should not only focus on their own needs and desires, but also be attentive to the needs of others and seek to serve them in practical ways.

Verse 16 emphasizes the importance of having a spirit of humility and mutual respect towards others, even those who may oppose or mistreat us. The phrase "Live in harmony with one another" suggests that believers should strive for unity and peace in their relationships with others, rather than causing division or strife. The phrase "do not be haughty" emphasizes the importance of avoiding pride and arrogance, and instead cultivating a spirit of humility and meekness.

Verse 17-18 continues with the command to "Repay no one evil for evil, but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all. If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all." This implies that believers should not seek revenge or retaliate against those who harm them, but instead seek to do what is honorable and pleasing to God. The phrase "live peaceably with all" suggests that Christians should seek to maintain peaceful and respectful relationships with everyone, as far as it is within their control to do so.

Verse 19 emphasizes the importance of leaving justice in the hands of God, rather than seeking to take matters into our own hands. The phrase "Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, ‘Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord’" suggests that believers should trust in God's justice and sovereignty, and seek to forgive and show mercy towards others, even those who have wronged them.

Verse 20-21 concludes with the command to "if your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink; for by so doing you will heap burning coals on his head." This suggests that believers should respond to their enemies with kindness and generosity, rather than hatred or revenge. The phrase "heap burning coals on his head" has been interpreted in various ways, but may refer to the idea of shaming or convicting one's enemy through acts of kindness and love.

In summary, Romans 12:14-21 provides practical instructions for Christians on how to respond to adversity and persecution with love, kindness, and humility. This passage emphasizes the importance of avoiding retaliation, seeking peace and harmony with others, and trusting in God's justice and sovereignty. By following these commands, believers can demonstrate the love and grace of God to others, and contribute to the building up of the church and the spread of the gospel.