‘Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.‘ Romans 12:21
In almost 200 words Paul in Romans 12:9-21manages to give around 30 instructions on how to live the Christian life. At a quick read it would be possible to miss some of them. but they cover every aspect of our lives.
‘Love must be sincere’ and ‘hate what is evil, verse 9. These are good basic instructions. The subject of prayer is also covered. ‘Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.’ verse 12. Sharing is well represented ‘Share with God’s people who are in need,’‘ ‘Practise hospitality,’ (13) ‘If your enemy is hungry, feed him.’ (20) Paul reminds us to be enthusiastic in our Christian life. ‘Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervour.’ (13)
It would be helpful if we had time to study each one of these instructions in depth. In doing so we would maybe discover some of our own failings. It is a high standard to live up to, but it is what God is asking us to do. These are the New Testament equivalents of the The Ten Commandments of the Old Testament, clothed in the commands of Jesus. I can imagine how overwhelming it would be to hear all these instructions in one sermon, but maybe they would make a series of sermons.