Paul begins by describing the kind of sacrifice we should be making as believers. He begins in Romans 12:1 by stating this: Therefore, brothers and sisters, in view of the mercies of God, I urge you to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God; this is your true worship. (CSB)
Paul continues by giving us a list, in Romans 12:3-21, of sacrifices we will need to make, and is only possibly to make through the transforming power of the Holy Spirit . Here is the list that will be explored further in the session:
- Romans 12:3 - Do not think of himself more highly than he should think. Paul describes in verses 4-8 why this attitude can’t be a part of a believer’s life if he or she is to effectively serve the body of Christ – His church.
- Romans 12:9 - Let love be without hypocrisy.
- Romans 12:9 - Detest evil; cling to what is good.
- Romans 12:10 - Love one another deeply as brothers and sisters.
- Romans 12:10 - Outdo one another in showing honor.
- Romans 12:11 - Do not lack diligence in zeal; be fervent in the Spirit; serve the Lord. (Be set on fire by the Holy Spirit.)
- Romans 12:12 - Rejoice in hope; be patient in affliction; be persistent in prayer.
- Romans 12:13 - Share with the saints in their needs; pursue hospitality.
- Romans 12:14 - Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse.
- Romans 12:15 - Rejoice with those who rejoice; weep with those who weep.
- Romans 12:16 - Live in harmony with one another.
- Romans 12:16 - Do not be proud; instead, associate with the humble. Do not be wise in your own estimation.
- Romans 12:17 - Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Give careful thought to do what is honorable in everyone’s eyes.
- Romans 12:18 - If possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.
- Romans 12:19 - Friends do not avenge yourselves; instead, leave room for God’s wrath, because it is written, Vengeance belongs to me; I will repay, says the Lord.
- Romans 12:20 - If your enemy is hungry, feed him. If he is thirsty, give him something to drink. For in so doing you will be heaping fiery coals on his head.
- Romans 12:21 - Do not be conquered by evil, but conquer evil with good.
All of these are indicative of someone who is offering their entire being as a living sacrifice. Because most of these go against our normal human tendencies for responding to people, we truly must sacrifice our natural responses in order for complete spiritual transformation to take place in our lives. This is only possible because of salvation and the work of the Holy Spirit constantly in our lives.
DOWNLOADABLE TEACHING IDEAS
There are several ideas you might want to incorporate into your online discussion or Bible study emails to your group this week. I have also included an 8-minute video that describes how a farmer grafts a tree. This could be shared in advance of your online meeting in order to introduce the session.
There are several ideas you might want to incorporate into your online discussion or Bible study emails to your group this week. I have also included an 8-minute video that describes how a farmer grafts a tree. This could be shared in advance of your online meeting in order to introduce the session.
VIDEO SESSION
Consider sharing this link with your group if you are unable to meet online, or share it with your church members who aren't connected to a group.
