October 31, 2013
“But overcome evil with good.” Romans 12:21
This summarizes the verses from Romans 12:17-21.
What evil do you see today close at hand?
What good can you do to overcome it?
Tag Archives: romans 12
Crouton – 30
October 30, 2013
“Do not be overcome by evil” Romans 12:21
Should we be passive in the face of evil?
Should we use the tools of evil against evil?
How would using evil’s methods affect us?
Crouton 29
October 29, 2013
“In doing this, you will heap burning coals upon his head.” Roman s 12:20
In doing what?
What do burning coals signify?
Why would God call us to act in love towards our enemies?
Crouton 28
October 28, 2013
“If he is thirsty, give him something t drink.”
What do you think about the idea that he command to love your enemy was found in the Old Testament?
Crouton 27
October 17, 2013
“On the contrary: ‘If you enemy is hungry, feed him” Romans 12:20
The next few croutons are a quote from Proverbs 25:21-22.
If your enemy is hungry, give him food to eat;
if he is thirsty, give him water to drink.
In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head,
and the Lord will reward you.
What is this advice “on the contrary” to?
Does this proverb promise reconciliation? What does it promise?
Crouton 26
October 27, 2013
For it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” says the Lord. Romans 12:19
The quote is from the Song of Moses found in Deuteronomy 32:35 –
Do you think God should avenge evil?
What are we to be doing until God brings justice?
Crouton 25
October 25, 2013
“Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath” Romans 12:19
Will those who choose evil get away with it?
Is it your job to even the accounts by making them pay?
How is God better at punishment than you might be?
Crouton – 24
October 24, 2013
“If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.” Romans 12:18
There are two conditions:
- If it is possible: maybe it is not possible.
- as far as it depends on you: you can only control your part.
Are you in conflict with anyone?
Crouton 23
October 23, 2013
“Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone.” Romans 12:17
Do people who are not Christ followers have any say over how we act?
- (e.g. John 13:34-35 ; Acts 2:42-47)
What is the church’s current reputation within your community?
What is your reputation?
Crouton — 22
October 22, 2013
“Do not repay anyone evil for evil.” Romans 12:17
Note that “eye for an eye and tooth for a tooth” was not for individual revenge, but for justice to be proportional. Even so Jesus refined our understanding on repayment and revenge.
Matthew 5:38-48 “You have heard that it was said, ‘Eye for eye, and tooth for tooth.’ But I tell you, do not resist an evil person. If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to them the other cheek also. And if anyone wants to sue you and take your shirt, hand over your coat as well. If anyone forces you to go one mile, go with them two miles. Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you.
“You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be children of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that? And if you greet only your own people, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that? Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.
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