Romans, cont'd

It was a coincidence. The pastor was preaching on how grace overwhelms condemnation. About human failing. He said that he had a problem with legislating morality. We already know that God made the perfect law and it was broken, continually. Thus grace. On the way out after the service, I mentioned to him, "The more perfect the law, the more creative the criminal." He cited a verse from Romans, this one, I believe... it happened so fast in passing. Have to go back and ask him again. I look forward to more conversations, but his time is limited in the comings and goings.

Proceeding from Chapter 8; "Therefore there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus." We all fall short. Yes. We plead upon the blood of Jesus and will not be disappointed. We are forgiven. Released. Yet, I inventory the many little bondages I am captive of. Physical and mental. Call upon The Lord; we are assured. Live in The Spirit and nothing can separate us from Him. 

Rhetorically, Paul makes his case, citing the Prophets. Again, believe and you won't be disappointed. Then, personal advise: don't presume yourself better for having been saved; be happy and share the goodness...

Let love be without hypocrisy. Abhor what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in brotherly love; give preference to one another in honor; not lagging behind in diligence, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord; rejoicing in hope, persevering in tribulation, devoted to prayer, contributing to the needs of the saints, practicing hospitality. (12:9-12) 

I've done my best to be a good servant but often have those presumptions. Personal issues oftentimes go to reactive behaviors. And how to determine what is evil, I mean the everyday taken for granted things. Is Scotch whiskey evil? Am I being snarky? Is that evil? I downloaded this yesterday and will have a look. I do know the early councils did instruct the disciples to stay out of taverns. Ah... Paul says to behave properly...

Not in carousing and drunkenness, not in sexual promiscuity and sensuality, not in strife and jealousy. But put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh in regard to its lusts. (13:13-14)

OK. I understand. Yet do not judge. And accept secular authority as ordained by God. He ends with exhortation towards perseverance, encouraging our goodness and having us see that in others without prejudice, accepting one another as we are, human and redeemed, striving in peace toward God. James spoke of drawing near unto God. He will be with you.

Plate: Caravaggio - The Conversion of Saul