What are the governing principles of your life that determine what you think about, say and do? As followers of Jesus, we seek to live our lives in the way of Christ. These Christian ethics help us to navigate the ever-changing streams of contemporary culture, keeping us grounded on the truths of God’s Word, helping us to live in line with God’s Word and His will.
Some passages of Scripture are straight-forward instruction on how to live our lives. Romans 12:9-10 is one such passage.
Romans 12:9-10
9 Love must be without hypocrisy. Detest evil; cling to what is good. 10 Show family affection to one another with brotherly love. Outdo one another in showing honor.
Love without hypocrisy. Jesus showed love to all people unconditionally, and we should follow His example. Our love should be genuine, never fake. It should be steadfast, sacrificial and kind.
Detest evil. Followers of Jesus seek holiness and purity. We recognize that there is evil in the world and even in our own hearts. We detest evil and therefore do not want it to be part our words, thoughts or actions.
Cling to what is good. We know that there is good to cling to. God is good. His way is good. He makes all things new. He tells us that we should think about good things. We should think this way, talk this way, and live this way. Cling to what is good.
Philippians 4:8
8 Finally brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable—if there is any moral excellence and if there is any praise—dwell on these things.
Love each other like you are family. In Christ, we are spiritual brothers and sisters, mothers and fathers. We are closely related to each other through Christ. Show unconditional love to your spiritual family, encouraging them, serving them, helping them, praying for them, forgiving them, and being kind to them.
Show honor more than anyone else. It should never be unusual to see followers of Jesus showing honor and respect to each other and to others. As a matter of fact, we should have a healthy “competition” to see who can outdo one another in showing honor. We may not always agree with someone else, but we can show them the respect and honor they are due because of their position, office or role in life.
Establish strong Christian ethics and let them guide your thoughts, words and actions. Follow in the way of Christ. Live your life in line with God’s Word. Totally give yourself to God.
Romans 12:2
2 Do not be conformed to this age, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may discern what is the good, pleasing, and perfect will of God.