The next section of New Testament books includes letters by the earliest church leaders. These letters were the earliest literary form of the New Testament and include letters to early churches and individuals, such as Romans. This is one of thirteen surviving letters of Paul to early churches. The letter to the church in Rome helps that early church answer basic questions such as how to live together, how to best live as Christians and Paul’s beliefs taught to these fellow believers. The New Oxford Annotated Bible (NRSV) notes that this letter is “Paul’s preaching of the gospel in writing in order to fulfill his divinely given commission that Gentiles, including those in Rome, might receive the fullness of the gospel.”

Romans 12:9-13

“⁹Let love be genuine; hate what is evil, hold fast to what is good; ¹⁰love one another with mutual affection; outdo one another in showing honor. ¹¹Do not lag in zeal, be ardent in spirit, serve the Lord. ¹²Rejoice in hope, be patient in suffering, persevere in prayer. ¹³Contribute to the needs of the saints; extend hospitality to strangers.”

Prayer

Lord Jesus may my love truly be genuine. I pray that because of your love, I may let go of what is evil and open my heart to what is good. Truly good, to love another by your Holy Spirit’s guidance. May I always rejoice in the hope found in you, I pray, Amen.