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At first it looks as though Paul has wandered off message. In Romans chapter 13 he's talking about the kind of citizens Christians ought to be: obeying the laws, paying their taxes, and making good on any outstanding debts. But then his thoughts jump the track to a totally different kind of debt. Let's explore this divinely inspired diversion with the apostle.

Romans 13:8-10

1. To whom do we owe a love-debt? How can we begin repaying this debt?
2. Why is our love-debt one we can never fully repay?
3. How can all the commandments (v. 9) be summed up in one?
4. Why do you think love is more important than all the other commandments? Can you give a practical example?
5. Who is your neighbor (seeLuke 10:25-37)?
6. How do you love yourself (seeEphesians 5:29)? Are you concerned that others be properly fed, clothed, and housed?
7. How does love satisfy all God's requirements (v. 10; see alsoMatthew 22:36-40)?
8. How does the law of love go well beyond our legal obligation to others (seeJames 2:8-9for one example)?

Ask God for a heart-shift that develops your caring side, making you the well-rounded man of God He intends.

8 Owe nothing to anyone—except for your obligation to love one another. If you love your neighbor, you will fulfill the requirements of God's law. 9 For the commandments say, "You must not commit adultery. You must not murder. You must not steal. You must not covet." These—and other such commandments—are summed up in this one commandment: "Love your neighbor as yourself." 10 Love does no wrong to others, so love fulfills the requirements of God's law.

Copyright © 2007 by the author or Christianity Today International/Men of Integrity magazine.Click here for reprint information on Men of Integrity.

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Prayer for the Week

Lord, I want to replicate your tough but tender love in my world. Please teach me how.

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