Rom 12

Rom 12-16 is a new section talking about God’s righteousness manifesting in group setting such as in church, within our neighborhood and in our society. For any Christian to grow and manifest God’s righteousness in his life, “offering our life as a living sacrifice” is always the entrance of this growth. We call this step “dedication” or “total surrender.” We should be carefully calculate the cost before we decide and it is a voluntary step. “Therefore” in 12:1 is for us to look back all the wonderful grace and blessings God has provided us in chapter 1-12. It should be our reasonable choice. Without this step, we cannot discern God’s will (v. 2) and all the commands that follow won’t be possible.

Comments

Audrey said…
The Scriptures in 12:1-2 are so familiar to me. However, I found that the command calls us to switch our focus. God is the one that we should please v.1, and not the world v.2. What will happen when a group of such dedicated people meet together v.3-5? Somebody call this danger the "spiritual proud," i.e. we think we are the most dedicated person in the world. No, Paul commands us "not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think v.3." We are different v.4, but we are one v.5. Uses diligently our gifts v.6-8 and exercise love to each other v.9-16 are the 2 key components. At last, if we have arguments among us we should sacrifice our own opinion to live peacefully with others v.17-21.
May 22, 2007 at 8:45:00 AM CST
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