Owe no one anything, except to love each other, for the one who loves another has fulfilled the law. Romans 13:8 esv
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Just prior to this verse, Paul tells the Roman church to pay their bills, pay their taxes, pay respect, and pay honor. In this way, people (including authorities in their lives) will see through them the One to whom they serve.
This line of thinking continues with today’s verse. Paul wants them to understand that the only debt they should owe is a debt of love, for this it what fulfills the Law. Paul is reflecting the heart of his Master as found in the teaching found in the synoptic Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke). When Jesus is asked about the most important commandment, Jesus definitively declares that all of the law hangs on the commandment to love.
So if you believe that your Master calls you to love, and if a great teacher like Paul tells you this is the only debt you should owe, then is this something you should avoid?
I make you an offer you can’t refuse: Pay up! And show the world who you are indebted to.
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