The indicative mood in Greek describes what is, and the imperative mood speaks of what should be. The expression “become what you are” captures both of those Greek moods.
The first 11 chapters describe what God has done for us so that we can become who we are. Chapter 12 illustrates what we should be.
The clearest way God’s people demonstrate their love and devotion for Him is through how they treat others. In previous verses (Romans 12.3-12), we’ve seen the command to love as a reflection of our relationship with God.
This love is expressed through practical acts of service.
Contribute to the needs of the saints; extend hospitality to strangers.
Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse them.
Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep.
Live in harmony with one another; do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly; do not claim to be wiser than you are (Romans 12.13-16).
The Needs of the Saints
Love involves caring for fellow Christians. The phrase “contribute to the needs of the saints” or “partner with the saints” refers to supporting fellow believers, particularly those in Jerusalem who were enduring severe persecution.
One of Paul’s key missions was to collect funds from Gentile churches to help ease the suffering of their brothers and sisters in Rome.
Hospitality involves the practice of showing kindness, generosity, and care to those who are outsiders or in need, especially welcoming them into our home or community.
If you’ve ever felt like an outsider in a group or at an event, you understand how meaningful it is when someone welcomes you and brings you into their fellowship and friendship.
Blessing – An Act of Love
Followers of the Lord are called to reflect His character, and the most important aspect of His character is love. One way we demonstrate this love is by turning enemies into friends, which is why we bless those who persecute us.
This teaching is not unfamiliar to Paul; he learned it from Jesus, who taught the same principle in the Sermon on the Mount.
“You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’
But I say to you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may be children of your Father in heaven” (Matthew 5.43-45).
The Old Testament word for compassion is a vivid word picture. It describes the sound a mother camel makes when her baby is being weaned.
When we share in the feelings of others—whether rejoicing with them or weeping with them—we are showing God’s compassion through us to those He loves.
Humility
If you observe how Jesus treated those who are often marginalized in society—such as women, children, and the poor—you will see how He humbly cared for each one with tender love.
From this, you can gain a clear understanding of the kind of behavior Paul encourages us to have. We do well to emphasize in our lives Paul’s exhortations and Jesus’ actions.
Extend hospitality to strangers.
Do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly; do not claim to be wiser than you are (Romans 12.13 and 16).
If we’re seeking to reflect God’s image to the world, closely observing Jesus and carefully reading Paul’s writings will guide us. Let’s commit to reading, praying, and following His direction.
YouTube Discussion
Rudy Ross and I discussed this passage on YouTube today. It is on the Bob Spradling channel.
Real Voices 