Persecution by the Jews

Rom. 8:31-39 Paul – writing to Christians suffering persecution by the Jews in Rome – says he is certain that nothing can separate believers from God’s love. For “nothing above us, nothing below us, nor anything else in the whole world will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Romans 8:39).

Rom. 9-11       Paul explains that this new relationship with God is offered to both Jews and non-Jews (Gentiles) “because there is no difference between those who are Jews and those who are not. The same Lord is the Lord of all and gives many blessings to all who trust in him…” (Romans 10:12).

Rom. 12:1-21 He states that, as a result of their new relationship with God, believers will stand out as different from the crowd. “Do not change yourselves to be like the people of this world, but be changed within by a new way of thinking. Then you will be able to decide what God wants for you” (Romans 12:2).

 

Martha Collison baking for 21hrs to protect children from trafficking (Tearfund)

Paul says believers should stand out from the crowd (Romans 12:2):

Martha Collison baking for 21hrs to protect children from trafficking  (Tearfund)

 

Rom. 13:1-14 Paul explains that believers should obey the state authorities because “No one rules unless God has given him the power to rule” (Romans 13:1). “This is also why you pay taxes. Rulers are working for God and give their time to their work” (Romans 13:6).

Good citizenship, says Paul, extends to helping our neighbours and living a decent life. “Let us live in a right way, like people who belong to the day. We should not have wild parties or get drunk. There should be no sexual sins of any kind, no fighting or jealousy” (Romans 13:13).

Rom. 14:1-23 Paul urges his readers to be tolerant of those with different opinions. He cites a quarrel between vegetarians and meat-eaters. “So why do you judge your brothers or sisters in Christ? And why do you think you are better than they are” (Romans 14:10).

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