Spirit-filled Behavior of the Transformed Christian Life,pt1-Romans 12:9-13

Jesus summarized the Law and the Prophets as love of God and neighbor (Matt 22:34-40). In terms of the Christian virtues, love is preeminent; and if it is truly felt and practiced, the other requirements will follow. One evangelist said, "Take any of the commandments. 'Thou shalt have no other gods before Me.' If a man love God, you will not have to tell him that. Love is the fulfilling of that law. 'Take not His name in vain.' Would he ever dream of taking His name in vain if he loved Him? Remember the Sabbath day to keep it holy.' Would he not be too glad to have one day in seven to dedicate more exclusively to the object of his affection? Love would fulfill all these laws regarding God. And so, if he loved man, you would never think of telling him to honor his father and mother. He could not do anything else. It would be preposterous to tell him not to kill. You could only insult him if you suggested that he should not steal--how could he steal from those he loved? It would be superfluous to beg him not to bear false witness against his neighbor. If he loved him, it would be the last thing he would do. And you would never dream of urging him not to covet what his neighbors had. He would rather they possessed it than himself. In this way, 'Love is the fulfilling of the law.' It is the rule for fulfilling all rules, the new commandment for keeping all the old commandments, Christ's one secret of the Christian life." As we continue our study of Romans 12 we come to over 2 dozen exhortations and characteristics of the Christian life, starting with love. Join us for "Spirit-filled Behaviors of the Transformed Christian Life",pt1 (Romans 12:9-13).