Romans 13:1-14 Respect for Authority

Respect for Authority
Romans 13:1-14

Intro Questions

Text Graphic

• God is ... What do we learn about God in this passage?
• We are ... What do we learn about people in this passage?
• 
  
• I will ... What has the Holy Spirit revealed to us in this passage? How can I apply it to my life this week?
• 
  
• You can ... Who do you know who needs to hear this? Feel free to share with others by social media links at the bottom of this.

https://www.youtube.com/c/edmondchurchofchrist

Salvation By Christ Alone - Part 11 from North Boulevard Church of Christ on Vimeo.

Other Resources: 

Procrastination Romans 13 https://virtualbiblestudy.com/lessons/romans/13

Romans 12:3-21 Many Gifts but One Body

Many Gifts but One Body
Romans 12:3-21

Intro Questions

#God                #People           #Time  #Place #Obedient faith           #Sin     #Key Idea

 

Humble Service in the Body of Christ

³ For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the faith God has distributed to each of you. ⁴ For just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, ⁵ so in Christ we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. ⁶ We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your[a] faith; ⁷ if it is serving, then serve; if it is teaching, then teach; ⁸ if it is to encourage, then give encouragement; if it is giving, then give generously; if it is to lead,^[b] do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully.

Love in Action

⁹ Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. ¹⁰ Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. ¹¹ Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. ¹² Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. 13 Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality.

¹⁴ Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. ¹⁵ Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. ¹⁶ Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position.^[c] Do not be conceited.

¹⁷ Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. ¹⁸ If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. ¹⁹ Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,”[^d] says the Lord. ²⁰ On the contrary:

“If your enemy is hungry, feed him;
    if he is thirsty, give him something to drink.
In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.”^[e]

²¹ Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.

 

• God is ... What do we learn about God in this passage?
• We are ... What do we learn about people in this passage?
• 
  
• I will ... What has the Holy Spirit revealed to us in this passage? How can I apply it to my life this week?
• 
  
• You can ... Who do you know who needs to hear this? Feel free to share with others by social media links at the bottom of this.

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Document for DBS

Series: Connected “Abiding in Christ”

In a time of growing isolation and individualism, we are reminded of how important it is to stay connected to God and to each other. Jesus’ metaphor of the vine and branches calls us into a life of connection over production as we abide in Him.

Title: “Connected Community” (Romans 12:1-13)

Bookmark: Click Here

Opening Thoughts: As we nurture meaningful connections within the body, we each accept our role and responsibility to build up the body by serving cheerfully.

v  Introduction to connection

o   Helen Keller

§  “Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.” –Helen Keller

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Text: Romans 12:1-13

A Living Sacrifice

12 Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. ² Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.

Humble Service in the Body of Christ

³ For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the faith God has distributed to each of you. ⁴ For just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, ⁵ so in Christ we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. ⁶ We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your^[a] faith; ⁷ if it is serving, then serve; if it is teaching, then teach; ⁸ if it is to encourage, then give encouragement; if it is giving, then give generously; if it is to lead,^[b] do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully.

Love in Action

⁹ Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. ¹⁰ Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. ¹¹ Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. ¹² Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. ¹³ Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality.

 

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Summarize the main story: Describe the events of the story in your own words.

v  Review and retell the story.

Reflections for applications:

v  Connected by Mercy

o   Romans 12:1

v  Connected & Transformed

o   Romans 12:2

v  Interdependence

o   Romans 12:3

v  Unified Diversity

o   Romans 12:4-5

o   Charlie Brown’s Christmas Tree

v  Enthusiastic Service: Making the Body Bigger & Better

o   Romans 12:6-8

v  Connectedness in Action

o   Hebrews 10:24-25 And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, ²⁵ not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.

v  “There’s no such thing as ‘can’t’. You taught me that.” –Anne Sullivan in “The Miracle Worker” by William Gibson

o   Galatians 6:2 Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.

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Digging Questions:

·         How will you respond to making “Connection to Jesus”? What transformative move needs to be made?

·         What do these biblical texts tell you about God and His nature?

·         What is God calling us (me and you individually) to do?

Take Away Challenges

·         What has the Holy Spirit revealed to you in this passage? How will you apply it to your life this week?

·         Whom do you know who needs to hear this?

·         What is God bringing to your attention in this discussion? What beliefs, thoughts or actions need to be addressed or changed?

Hashtags #Connected #Involvement

Sunday sermon link          https://youtu.be/d632Ei1cFaI

Kevin’s Blog Link to more resources: Click here for Kevin’s Blog Notes

Comments and resources with some more resources:

https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Romans+12%3A1-13&version=NIV

https://www.youtube.com/c/edmondchurchofchrist

Romans 12:1-8


Romans 12:9-21


Salvation By Christ Alone - Part 10 from North Boulevard Church of Christ on Vimeo.

Holy People in a Hostile World (Romans 12:14-21)

https://youtu.be/0rnoD8AWETw

What does it look like to “live peaceably with all”? Paul gives various instructions to the Roman Christians about how to be at peace within the church community, as well as within society at large. These instructions would likely be received differently depending on a person’s social position. For instance, it would likely be the strong and powerful Christians who really needed to be told to, “Contribute to the needs of the saints and seek to show hospitality.” The weak and powerless Christians, on the other hand, might especially need to hear, “Repay no one evil for evil.” The bottom line, for all Christians, is to “Love your neighbor as yourself,” that is how we all live peaceably with both believers and unbelievers.

Other Resources: 

Transformation! Romans 12

What Good Would I Be?

But as God has distributed to each one . . . so let him walk. 1 Corinthians 7:17

Recommended Reading = Romans 12:4-8

In Argentina, everyone is required by law to spend two years in military service. One fellow showed up at the induction center, objecting, "What good would I be? I have no arms!" They put him in the army anyway. At basic training camp, his commanding officer said, "See that fellow up there on the hill pumping water? Go tell him when the pail is full. He's blind."

Sometimes we can get caught up asking, "What good would I be?" and believing we have nothing to offer of service to God. As it turns out, we are all functioning parts of the whole body of Christ, and though we may not see the value of the gifts and abilities God has given us, He has a plan to use them in union with the unique talents of other believers to achieve a particular goal. In fact, He hand picked each worker and personally assigned their different abilities, knowing that that's where they would thrive and serve Him best.

Dear Christian, do not wish for another believer's talents, for yours were given to you by your Creator, the One who knew your name even as He created the universe. Take joy in knowing that He has given you exactly what you're supposed to have.

We should never lessen the gifts and talents that God has given us. Zig Ziglar

 

Romans 11:25-12:2 God’s Mercy Is for Everyone

God’s Mercy Is for Everyone
Romans 11:25-12:2

Intro Questions

#God                #People           #Time  #Place #Obedient faith           #Sin     #Key Idea

 

All Israel Will Be Saved

²⁵ I do not want you to be ignorant of this mystery, brothers and sisters, so that you may not be conceited: Israel has experienced a hardening in part until the full number of the Gentiles has come in, ²⁶ and in this way^[a] all Israel will be saved. As it is written:

“The deliverer will come from Zion;
    he will turn godlessness away from Jacob.
²⁷ And this is^[b] my covenant with them
    when I take away their sins.”^[c]

²⁸ As far as the gospel is concerned, they are enemies for your sake; but as far as election is concerned, they are loved on account of the patriarchs, ²⁹ for God’s gifts and his call are irrevocable. ³⁰ Just as you who were at one time disobedient to God have now received mercy as a result of their disobedience, ³¹ so they too have now become disobedient in order that they too may now^[d] receive mercy as a result of God’s mercy to you. ³² For God has bound everyone over to disobedience so that he may have mercy on them all.

Doxology

³³ Oh, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and^[e] knowledge of God!
    How unsearchable his judgments,
    and his paths beyond tracing out!
³⁴ “Who has known the mind of the Lord?
    Or who has been his counselor?”^[f]
35 “Who has ever given to God,
    that God should repay them?”^[g]
36 For from him and through him and for him are all things.
    To him be the glory forever! Amen.

A Living Sacrifice

12 Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. ² Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.

 

• God is ... What do we learn about God in this passage?
• We are ... What do we learn about people in this passage?
• 
  
• I will ... What has the Holy Spirit revealed to us in this passage? How can I apply it to my life this week?
• 
  
• You can ... Who do you know who needs to hear this? Feel free to share with others by social media links at the bottom of this.

https://www.youtube.com/c/edmondchurchofchrist

Other Resources: 

Curiosity And Obedience Romans 11

Be Transformed from the Inside Out

“And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.” Romans 12:2 (KJV)

Do Not Conform to the World

Every day, we face pressure to think, act, and live according to the world's standards. Society tells us what success looks like, what we should value, and how we should live. Without realizing it, we can begin to adopt these attitudes and drift away from God's truth.

In Romans 12:2, the apostle Paul reminds us that God has called us to live differently. As believers, we are not called to blend in with the world but to reflect the character of Jesus Christ.

To conform means to take the shape or pattern of something around us. The world encourages us to seek popularity, pursue material possessions, and put ourselves first. But God's Word calls us to humility, contentment, forgiveness, and love.

Refusing to conform does not mean withdrawing from the world. It means living in the world while remaining faithful to God. When others choose bitterness, we can choose forgiveness. When others compromise their integrity, we can stand for truth.

The question is not whether the world will influence us, but whether we will allow God's Word to guide our lives.

Be Transformed by a Renewed Mind

Paul continues, “But be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind.”

God desires more than outward changes in our behavior. He wants to transform us from the inside out. This transformation begins in our minds because our thoughts influence our attitudes, decisions, and actions.

When we continually focus on fear, anger, and negativity, these things can shape how we see ourselves and others. But when we fill our minds with Scripture, prayer, and God's promises, our thinking begins to change.

This renewal requires daily surrender. We must allow the Holy Spirit to reveal thoughts and attitudes that do not please God and replace them with His truth.

Perhaps you struggle with worry, discouragement, or past habits. Remember that God is still working in you. Your struggles do not have to define your future. As you seek Him and obey His Word, He can give you a new perspective, renewed strength, and a deeper faith.

Transformation does not happen all at once. It is a daily process of trusting God and allowing Him to shape us into the people He created us to be.

Discover the Will of God

Paul explains that a renewed mind helps us recognize God's “good, and acceptable, and perfect, will.”

As we grow in our relationship with God, we become better equipped to make decisions that honor Him. Instead of allowing emotions, circumstances, or popular opinions to direct our choices, we learn to seek His wisdom through prayer and Scripture.

Sometimes God's will requires us to wait when we want immediate answers, forgive when we feel hurt, or step forward in faith when the future seems uncertain. Although obedience is not always easy, we can trust that God's wisdom is greater than our own.

The more we surrender to Him, the more our desires begin to align with His purposes. We learn that His way is not always the easiest, but it is always worthy of our trust.

Conclusion

Romans 12:2 challenges us to examine our lives. Are we allowing the world to shape our thinking, or are we allowing God to transform us?

We cannot always control the influences around us, but we can choose what we allow to shape our hearts and minds. Through prayer, Scripture, and obedience, God can renew our thinking and guide our steps.

God is not merely interested in changing what you do; He wants to transform who you are. Surrender to Him daily, trust His Word, and allow your life to reflect the love and character of Jesus Christ.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, renew my mind and transform my heart. Help me resist the pressures of this world and remain faithful to Your Word. Remove thoughts and attitudes that do not please You. Give me wisdom to recognize Your will and courage to obey it. May my words, choices, and actions reflect Jesus Christ. Transform me from the inside out so that my life brings glory to Your name. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Reflection Question: What thought or habit do you need to surrender to God today?

Today's Challenge: Choose one truth from God's Word to focus on throughout the day, allowing it to shape your thoughts, attitudes, and actions.