Introduction: In our text today, Paul is going to challenge us. Paul is going to give us another list and the first item is a bit hard to swallow. Today we will see why it is the path that we should pursue. 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. 17 Repay no one evil for evil. Have regard for good things in the sight of all men. 18 If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men. 19 Beloved, do not avenge yourselves, but rather give place to wrath; for it is written, “Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,” says the Lord. 20 Therefore “If your enemy is hungry, feed him; If he is thirsty, give him a drink; For in so doing you will heap coals of fire on his head.” 21 Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good. • Bless means to speak either about someone or to someone. • Persecute means to someone like hunting someone down. • To curse means to wish or pronounce upon someone. • What does Paul say in verse 17 to show us that we should not fight fire with fire? • According to verse 21 what should we use to fight or overcome evil? • How do Paul’s words agree with Jesus in Luke 6:27-36? • According to Matthew 18:23-33, how should God’s mercy to us influence how we show mercy to others? • According to verse 19 why are we not to seek vengeance? • According to verse 20, how are we to proactively do good to our enemies? • What is the desired outcome of our goodness and kindness to others, especially our enemies? •How might what we have learned here influence our approach to outreach and evangelism?