“Let love be genuine. Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good. Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor. 11 Do not be slothful in zeal, be fervent in spirit, serve the Lord. Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer. Contribute to the needs of the saints and seek to show hospitality.” Romans 12:9-13 ESV
The header for these verses is “Marks of the True Christian.” Wow! Ouch! I wonder for each of us how we would react to this as the litmus test for our ‘marks as the true Christian?’ As I read this over and over the work “the” kept jumping out at me. In a World that today says everything is up for interpretation and my least favorite term, ‘my truth,’ what this scripture teaches us is that there are clearly defined attitudes and actions by which we should be associated. The singular truth that is Jesus Christ and the defined actions that represent him, his teachings and the only truth that is contained in The Word.
Objective is what is observed while subjective is what is said. When is looked these words for comparison on Grammarly, this was a fascinating definition. “Objective means verifiable information based on facts and evidence. Subjective means information or perspectives based on feelings, opinions, or emotions.”
The expectations and definitions for those of us who have surrendered our lives to the servitude of Christ are clearly defined and explained. The objectives of our lives are clearly defined. The actions and deeds of our daily lives outlined as a life plan for all to see and receive. Our path is clear and our expectations for self, understood.
So today, exemplify the marks of the true Christian. You are God’s beloved son, who through sin, brokenness and daily gain can be the light and example to those crossing your path and desperately needing the hope that you have in Christ Jesus.
“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. Never be wise in your own sight. Repay no one evil for evil, but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all. If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all. Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, “Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.” To the contrary, “if your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink; for by so doing you will heap burning coals on his head.” Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” Romans 12:14-21 ESV