1. Scripture Reading: II Peter 3:8-18a
The Properly Functioning Reactions Toward Evil Treatment (Romans 12:17-21)
Scripture Reading:
II Peter 3:8-18a

2. Introduction
The Body of Christ emphasizes care, coordination and cooperation among the members of that Body, under the direction of Christ, who is the Head of the Body.

3. Do Not Return Evil for Evil
Correct Authority over evil
Human government (Rom 13:4)
God is the final, righteous, and only competent judge
Cf Jude 9; II Thess 1:7-9
Correct Timing
At Christ’s 2nd coming (Matt 24:25)
At the Great White Throne (Rev 20:11-15)
Correct purpose for believers
To provide a good testimony before all men (Rom 12:17b)
To give an explanation for our hope (I Pet 3:15)

4. Correctly Living in Peace with All Men (Rom 12:18)
Assuming it is possible
Cf II Cor 6:14-16
“As far as it rests with you” or “on your part”

5. Correctly Giving Place unto “The Wrath” (Rom 12:19) (The 7 bowls of God’s Wrath in Rev 16)
God will full repay
Cf Deut 32:35; II Tim 4:14

6. Correct Response to Those Who Constitute Themselves as our Enemy
Question: Who should a Christian make his enemy?
Answer: No one!
Feed them if they are hungry
Give drink if they are thirsty
The end result will be their shame
Cf Phil 1:28; I Pet 3:16

7. Correct Encouragement
Stop being conquered by the evil
Start conquering the evil by the good

8. Conclusion Correctly respond to evil treatment God will be glorified
The members of the Body will be encouraged