Love is first in this section because it is the cornerstone of Christlikeness. Love is the hinge upon which the two great commands from Jesus Christ swing. Love is the more excellent way (1 Corinthians 12.31) and the greatest of the triad: faith, hope, and love (1 Corinthians 13). Paul tells us to owe no one anything except to love one another because love is the fulfillment of the Law (Romans 13.8-10). "All the law is fulfilled in one word, even in this: "You shall love your neighbor as yourself" (Galatians 5.14). "Walk in love, as Christ also has loved us and given Himself for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet-smelling aroma" (Ephesians 5.2). "Above all ...things put on love, which is the bond of perfection" (Colossians 3.14). "You yourselves are taught by God to love one another" (1 Thessalonians 4.9). "The purpose of the commandment is love from a pure heart, from a good conscience, and from sincere faith" (1 Timothy 1.5).
I believe Romans 12:9-16 is governed by love that is selfless. It begins with an exhortation to selfless, sincere love and ends with a command for humility. Both sacrifice and humility are two hallmark characteristics of love. These verses give us nine essential elements of transforming love.
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Jim Oesterwind
Transforming Love Application of Righteousness Heritage Baptist Church
