Message Notes

Senior Sunday School 9 February 2025

Text: Romans 12

Subject: A Vibrant Christian Lifestyle II

14 Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse.

15 Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep.

16 Be of the same mind toward one another. Do not set your mind on high things, but associate with the humble. Do not be wise in your own opinion.

Romans 12:14-16

INTRODUCTION

1. The teachings of the Lord Jesus

a) They were all related to life

b) Every lesson was carefully honed to apply to life

2. The Beatitudes

a) There were 8 Blessings (Beatitudes)

b) All were life-related

PROBLEMS IN LIFE

1. This was a topic that had to be raised up

2. They are to be expected

3. One major problem: Persecution

4. The Church in the 1st century

a) It experienced much persecution

b) The next few centuries would see even more persecution

5. What was to be the desired response when persecuted?

a) To bless

b) Not to curse

c) This was no easy challenge

MANY NEEDS AND CHALLENGES IN LIFE

1. There are those who rejoice

a) Because of achievements

b) Because of success

c) Because of blessings

d) Our response?

To rejoice with those who rejoice!

2. There are also those who weep

a) Because of failure

b) Because of losses

c) Because of illness

d) Because of death

e) What is our response?

To weep with those who weep!

RELATIONSHIP WITH EACH OTHER

1. Having the same mind

a) This is to be considered

b) This is to be cultivated

c) The mind of the Lord Jesus (Phil 2:5-11)

d) It would take much work to make this possible

2. Some problems to note:

a) Setting the mind on high things

b) Having a high opinion of self

3. Choosing

a) To be among the humble

b) The poor in spirit

c) Their company is to be deeply appreciated

OUR CHALLENGE

1. To give heed to these words of admonition

2. To develop a stronger sense of cohesion as a Church

3. To cultivate and practise the mind of the Lord Jesus Christ