Romans 12: Living Sacrifices
IN THE FIRST eleven chapters Paul has described God's gift of righteousness. In Christ we who were condemned are justified. We who were sinners are sanctified. And we who had no hope will be glorified. But what is our proper response to God's mercy, love and grace? Paul tells us in this and the following chapters.
Warming Up to God
Jesus once told a Pharisee that a person who is forgiven little loves little. But a person who is forgiven much loves much (Lk 7:47). Why do you think this is so?
Read Romans 12. »
Discovering the Word
- Why do you think Paul uses the imagery of "living sacrifices" to describe our proper response to God's mercy?
- Sometimes we view God's will as something to be avoided rather than desired. How can the last part of verse 2 correct this distortion?
- How can the realization that we are members of a body (vv. 3-8) prevent us from thinking too highly of ourselves (v. 3)?
- How would the kind of love Paul describes in verses 9-16 transform our relationships with other Christians?
- How would Paul's advice in verses 17-21 help us to overcome our enemies?
Applying the Word
- What are some ways we can renew our minds (v. 2) and so be transformed?
- As you think "with sober judgment" about yourself, what gift (or gifts) do you think God has given you (vv. 3-8)?
- In what ways do you need to begin living more sacrificially before God, other Christians or the world?
Responding in Prayer
Ask God to use you in serving the body of Christ.
For Further Study
The New Friars by Scott Bessenecker