At times today's reading seemed as if there were two different authors. Chapters 12, 14 and 15 seemed much less theological and cerebral and more simply written. Short, simple sentences with a clear message- unlike some of what was written by Paul earlier in Romans. For me, on a Friday at the end of a long week, this was a relief.
However, the simplicity of writing did not mean a simplistic message. Chapter 12 reminds us of how we each have a unique gift or way of serving the church. Chapter 13 discusses the importance of submitting to governmental authority. Do not judge others based on their actions is a focus of Chapter 14. Chapter 16 reminded me that Romans was literally just a letter written to a group of believers. Paul probably didn't think that his writings would be foundational for the Church 2000 years later. He ends the book of Romans by giving props to his peeps- Pheobe, Titus, Timothy, etc.
What I took away from today's reading was found early in Chapter 12. 2Do not conform any longer 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. 3For 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 measure of faith God has given you. It is easy for me to allow my thought life to be a hindrance. Either I worry about things I ought not to worry about, or I fall into a judgmental way of thinking. These two verses reminded me that before I go to work, before I interact with students, before I start on any work or service project, whatever it is, I need to make sure things are right between the ears.
http://www.scripturestudies.com/Vol1/A3/a3_ex.html This link give a good explanation of "sober judgment".
What are your thoughts on today's reading?
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