SF519 - THE POWER OF POSITIVE LIVING (Romans 12 14-21)

SF519

THE POWER OF POSITIVE LIVING

Romans 12:14-21

INTRODUCTION

Much of our culture runs counter to what we say we believe.

Therefore we are faced with a dilemma about what to do, how to live out what we believe.

In a dog eat dog world how is a Christian to behave?

Are we to react and work like the world?

Are we to simply be passive and allow the world to take advantage of us?

The Apostle Paul helps us with some very practical truths about how a Christian is to related to a pagan and secular society...

Romans 12:14-21

1A.       THE POWER OF A PROPER PERSPECTIVE (14-16)

1B.       Persecution in not to be Feared or Fought (14)

“Bless” = eulogize - to speak well of

Jesus’ Explanation (Luke 6:27‑33)

Jesus’ Example

(1 Peter 2:21‑23)  To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his steps. {22} "He committed no sin, and no deceit was found in his mouth." {23} When they hurled their insults at him, he did not retaliate; when he suffered, he made no threats. Instead, he entrusted himself to him who judges justly.

2B.       See Life - Changing Events as Opportunities for Ministry (15) 

Be big enough to enjoy someone else’s success.

Be sensitive enough to endure someone else’s pain

3B.       Measure each Person’s Worth by God’s Standard (16)

Don’t be partial

“Live in harmony with one another...” = we are to make allowances for one another

Don’t be Proud

Of who you are

Of what you know or have

2A.       THE POWER OF A PLANNED PROCEDURE (17-21)

1B.       Live Passively (17a)

Avoid the tendency to go on the attack...

Joseph is our example

His brothers persecuted him, ridiculed him and sold him into slavery.

He provided for them, protected them, pardoned them and promoted them.

2B.       Live Purposefully (17b)

Our lives must be beyond reproach!

Make your word your bond!

3B.       Live Peaceably (18)

We are to go to great lengths to get along with everyone.

However, we cannot compromise God’s Word.

3B.       Live Positively (19-21)

Recognize...

The prerogative of vengeance is God’s (19)

(Phillips p.210)

The principle of vengeance that is God’s (20-21)

This was demonstrated on Calvary!

APPLICATION

Our world and our God are waiting for someone to step forward and live this kind of life.

Some have said that Christianity is dead, I simply think that for many, it has not been tried!