Part 3: Loving Your Enemies

ROMANS 12: RELATIONSHIPS MATTER

PART 3

Romans 12:14-21

“Hiding hatred makes you a liar; slandering others makes you a fool.” Proverbs 10:18 (NLT)

1. DON’T AVOID THE OFFENDER.

“If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.” Romans 12:18 (NIV)

• Resist superiority.  

“One who despises his neighbor lacks sense, But a person of understanding keeps silent.” Proverbs 11:12 (NASB)

2. STAY AWAY FROM HATE.

“Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone… 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,’ says the Lord.” Romans 12:17, 19 (NIV)

• You don’t know everything about the situation.

• You have sin of your own to deal with.

“Don’t rejoice when your enemies fall; don’t be happy when they stumble. For the Lord will be displeased with you and will turn His anger away from them.” Proverbs 24:17-18 (NLT)

3. REPAY EVIL WITH GOOD.

“Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse.”  Romans 12:14 (NIV)

“Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.”  Romans 12:15 (NIV) 

“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.” Romans 12:20 (NIV)

4. REMEMBER THE GOSPEL.

“Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited.” Romans 12:16 (NIV)

• Be humble.

• Remember Jesus.  

MY NEXT STEP TODAY IS: 

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This week’s Reading Plan and blog/podcast:

• YouVersion® Bible App Reading Plan:
  “Love Your Neighbour (And Your Enemies)”  (7 days) 

• Blog and Podcast: Loving Your Enemies