Right Side Up Thinking About Those in the Church

People around us are curious about Christians. They have questions like: Are Christians loving or unkind? Are Christians genuine or hypocritical? Are they the good guys or the bad guys? People want to know how to view Christians. And this is an important question not only for people outside the church, but also people inside the church. How should we regard other Christians: our neighbors, co-workers, and especially those in our own local church? In this passage from Romans 12:9-16, we see that God's word has some important information on how we should think about and respond to our brothers and sisters in Christ.

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. 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.

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.

- Romans 12:9-16