ROMANS Study Guide

a person who is inspired of God to see need and seek to help meet that need by giving what is needed. The idea is that of tangible giving not just giving service. Such a person should then give in “simplicity or a focused mind that is generous without using it to exalt oneself” in the eyes of others.

6) Rules :(to stand before, to be over) This is the gift of “leading.” to lead or govern “speedily…eagerly or with (energetic) diligence.” The word is used in relationship to the office of elder who “rules well his own house” ( 1Tim.3:4-5). But the word here refers generally to those in the body of Christ who are inspired to give leadership or guidance to life of the Church or ministry in and through it. Such leadership should be marked with “diligence” or energy with a willing heart. 7) Showing mercy :(to be compassionate- with cheerfulness not begrudging) These are God’s people who are inspired to show God’s love and mercy to those in need of such compassion. John Calvin felt it spoke to those in the church who cared for the sick and weak and needy. These are those who have Spirit given empathy and wisdom in how to comfort and strengthen those in distress. Such gifted people need to minister their compassion with a “cheerful heart.” Proverbs states that “ a cheerful heart does good like medicine.” (Prov.17:22) . ( Note: this is obviously not an exhaustive list, but it illustrates what the body of Christ has to offer its members …I Cor.12:7 -10)

Rom 12:9 Let love be without hypocrisy, shrinking from evil, cleaving to good. Rom 12:10 in brotherly love to one another, loving fervently, having led one another in honor. Rom 12:11 As to diligence, not slothful, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord. Rom 12:12 rejoicing in hope, patient in affliction, steadfastly continuing in prayer, Rom 12:13 distributing to the needs of the saints, pursuing hospitality. Rom 12:14 Bless those who persecute you; bless, and do not curse. Rom 12:15 Rejoice with rejoicing ones, and weep with weeping ones. Rom 12:16 minding the same thing toward one another, not minding high things, but yielding to the lowly. Do not be wise within yourselves. Rom 12:17 Repay no one evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men. Rom 12:18 If it is possible, as far as is in you, being in peace with all men. Rom 12:19 not avenging yourselves, beloved, but giving place to wrath; for it is written, "Vengeance is Mine, I will repay, says the Lord." Rom 12:20 Therefore if your enemy hungers, feed him. If he thirsts, give him drink. For in so doing you shall heap coals of fire on his head. Rom 12:21 Do not be overcome by evil but overcome evil with good.

6. Paul turns to the quality of love and character (fruits of the Spirit…