For the first 11 chapters of Romans Paul has been sharing with us some very important doctrines of the Christian life. And now, from chapters 12 to 16, Paul is going to show us how to apply the doctrines to our lives that will impact the way we live and the way we can impact the lives of those who live around us, both in the church and outside of the church.
Where does Paul start? He flows straight out of doctrine into devotion, or our worship of God. Then he spends the rest of his time instructing us in Christian duty, with ourselves, with the body of Christ, with the government and with the world. So, let’s begin by reading from chapter 12, verses 1-2.
I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. (Romans 12:1)
Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptabl and perfect. (Romans 12:2)
- We are to have the proper .
I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God,
With eyes wide open to the mercies of God, I beg you, my brothers [and sisters], as an act of intelligent worship, to give him your bodies.” – J.B. Phillips
Titus 3:4-7
- Grace or unmerited favor (1:5)
- Kindness or mercy (2:4)
- Justification by faith (3:28)
- Peace with God (5:1)
- Freedom from God’s wrath (5:9)
- Freedom from sin (6:11)
- Freedom from condemnation (8:1)
- Indwelling of the Spirit (8:11)
- Spirit of adoption (8:15)
- Victory and eternal glory (8:37-39)
- No separation (8:39)
- Grafted into the Olive Tree (11:17)
2. We are to have the proper .
I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. (Romans 12:1)
3. We are to have the proper .
Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, (Romans 12:2a)
Why do Our Minds Need to be Transformed?
A. There is a from the culture to to its values, ideals, and lifestyles.
B. There is a with our fallen minds to have us walk in .
Be renewed in the spirit of your minds. (Ephesians 4:22)
Therefore, preparing your minds for action, and being sober-minded, set your hope fully on the grace that will be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ. As obedient children, do not be conformed to the passion of your former ignorance. (I Peter 1:13-14)
How do We Experience a Renewed Mind?
Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind. (Romans 12:2b)
A. My mind is renewed by an internal, supernatural work of the Holy Spirit.
And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit. (2 Corinthians 3:18)
“If you are renewed by grace, and were to meet your old self, I am sure you would be very anxious to get out of his company.” – Charles H. Spurgeon
B. My mind is renewed by an external revelation of God’s word.
4. We will gain a proper revelation.
Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect. (Romans 12:2)