Theology for Everybody: RomansSample

For those who live Kingdom down, the next marker is peace. There’s a “settledness” to somebody in the Spirit. Even if things are crazy in the world, things are controlled in your heart. Even if everything out there is in flux, everything inside is in the Spirit. These kinds of people are easier to get along with; they bring peace with them because they live for the Prince of Peace. There is not much drama or conflict with these people because the peace that surrounds them is supernatural.

Paul says when we disagree, we can also have joy. In our modern era, the Christian faith has largely lost this concept of joy. Christians should be fun, happy, and joyful people. We laugh in church because we are going to laugh in heaven. If you belong to Jesus and all your sins are forgiven, God is for you, His Kingdom awaits you, and you should have peace and joy. When you disagree, it doesn’t mean you should lose love, righteousness, peace, or joy. A disagreement is not so big as to push out the fruit of the Spirit.

When we disagree, we need to ask, “How can I treat you the way Jesus treated me when I disagreed with Him?” The apostle already told us in Romans 2:4 that God’s kindness leads us to repentance. Jesus and I didn’t start out agreeing. We started disagreeing, but He was so good to me that eventually, He won by loving and serving me. I knew He had my best interest at heart, so I was willing to surrender and follow Him.

“Mutual upbuilding” is a win-win. I see the world in three categories. First, I see demonic people. That’s a lose-lose situation. Second, I see people who live in their fallen, sinful flesh. That’s a win-lose situation. “You give, I take. I win, you lose. I push, and you surrender.” It’s a win-lose. Third, I see people who live in the Spirit. That’s a win-win; it’s mutually upbuilding. Who wins? God does, and we do too. Even when we disagree, we can build each other up. We can help one another. We can differ agreeably.

Today’s Reflection

How can you have joy in your relationships with those you disagree with?