Paul says Christian love should be “without hypocrisy” (v.9, or “genuine”, “sincere”— true to our heart). It’s easy for a veneer of “niceness” to develop within the church, masking over a culture of backbiting, gossip, and pride. But being devoted to our brothers and sisters in real love (v.10), means hating what is evil (v.9) and loving them enough to confront them and speak the truth with them. We do this in the spirit of honouring them above ourselves (v.10).
Instead of saying “don’t persecute those who persecute you” (v.14), what does Paul say?
"Dear Lord, mould my heart to love others genuinely from the heart. Make me fervent in spirit to care for my fellow brothers and sisters. Give me diligence in zeal to serve your church. Let me be your humble instrument of blessing to others. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen."
God’s Word tells us that all who desire to live a godly life are bound to face opposition (2 Tim. 3:12); but leave all judgment to the Lord. Any resentment and vengeance on our part is taking on God’s role as judge. Paul tells us, either the person you’re angry with will repent someday and turn to Jesus; or they will not, and God will deal with it fairly. Leave it to God and actively pursue good. God will use these situations to build you and make you more like Christ.
What is the best solution to the problem of taking revenge into our own hands? (v.19)
"Dear Lord, help me not to seek revenge when I am wronged, but to trust you to make things right. Give me courage to do good to those who may not deserve it, and to live at peace with everyone. Even if everyone else acts one way, let me never be overcome by the values of the world, but instead commit my way to you. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen."
There are people who obey the state because they don’t want to be punished— but not when there is no prospect of punishment! But a Christian is to be different— it is a matter not only of fear, but of conscience before God (v.5). Christians submit and do not undermine authorities that God has placed, even when they support non-Christian values. (If they require disobedience to God, then honoring God is our duty.)