Characteristics of the Church

Our minister had a great lesson just a couple of weeks ago about 12 characteristics of the church. I have been thinking about them a lot and thought I would share. The text for the lesson was Romans 12.

1. Sincerity: Romans 12:9 Let love be without hypocrisy.
2. Discernment: Romans 12:9 Abhor what is evil. Cling to what is good.
3. Affection: Romans 12:10 Be kindly affectionate to one another with brotherly love,
4. Honor: Romans 12:10 in honor giving preference to one another;
5. Enthusiasm: Romans 12:11-12 not lagging in diligence, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord; rejoicing in hope,
6. Patience: Romans 12:12 patient in tribulation, continuing steadfastly in prayer;
7. Generosity: Romans 12:13 distributing to the needs of the saints,
8. Hospitality: Romans 12:13 given to hospitality.
9. Goodwill: Romans 12:14 Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse.
10. Joy and Sympathy: Romans 12:15 Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep.
11. Harmony: Romans 12:16 Be of the same mind toward one another.
12. Humility: Romans 12:16 Do not set your mind on high things but associate with the humble. Do not be wise in your own opinion.