Romans 12:9-21 – Love in action

One of the marks of a true believer can be detected in the way he loves others. He not only loves the fellow believers in the church but also people for whom Christ came to redeem in His love.

In verses 9-10, Paul showed Christ’s kind of love should be demonstrated. It should be without hypocrisy but sincere and not hypocritical. True love doesn’t say one thing and act another. It is not separated from morality but clings to what is good. Furthermore, it demonstrates itself in devotion to one another. It is considerate and not self-seeking. In fact, it shows itself in the spirit of self-giving by honoring and preferring others over self. Love is not self-gratifying.

In verse 11 we are reminded to always show diligence and spiritual zeal in service while relating to others. And in verse 12, we are told to express a joyful spirit that characterizes hope, rather than despair. And also pray devotedly. Verses 13-15 tell us to demonstrate generosity, practice hospitality and show sensitivity to others.

Since Christ is impartial, so in verse 16, we are told to treat others equally and exhibit humility. One thing not to do is: don’t seek vengeance but instead be non-retaliatory in life. We are not to seek to get even (v.17) but instead strive for peaceful existence with others (v.18). This can happen if we recognize that it is God’s prerogative in how others should be dealt with ultimately. Whereas, for believers, we must learn to respond appropriately (vv.19-21).

It is said that when one repays evil for evil, he is only doing what an animal would do. When he repays good for good, he is only doing what any ordinary human would do. And when he repays evil for good, he is doing what the devil would do. But when he repays good for evil, he is doing what God who would.

Who would you rather emulate? The highest demonstration of love is seen on Calvary. For God so loved the world, that He gave us His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life (John 3:16). And this same Lord Who died for us, commands us: A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another, even as I have loved you, that you also love one another. By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another (John 13:34-35).