By Robert Olsen, Ph.D.
Professor of Historical Theology and Director of Intercultural Studies, University of Mobile
SACRIFICE
Romans 12:1–13
Living sacrifice (1–2)
At this point in the Book of Romans, Paul shifts from writing about what the gospel is and what it means for us to how the gospel impacts our daily living. He begins by emphasizing that our bodies belong to God, and we are to offer them as living sacrifices. Sacrifice was a common element of worship in Paul’s day for all religions, but for Christians, Christ is the final sacrifice. This is why Christians did not participate in the Jewish temple sacrifices. Instead, Paul tells his readers to give up themselves as the sacrifice. This means that every aspect of our physical lives should be carried out for God’s glory. Work, sleep, worship at church and all other things should be done for the Lord.
Not only are our bodies for the Lord, but Paul tells us to renew our minds as well. Christianity is a religion that values the use of the mind to glorify God. The entire person is to operate in a way that brings honor to God. Reading the Bible, meditating on Scripture and praying are ways we can renew our minds. Memorizing Scripture is a good way for the Bible to be at the ready when we are faced with temptations and opposing worldviews.
The idea that what I do for God in regular life actually matters has consequences. Christianity transformed the world because believers lived and worked for God’s glory. Christians go the extra mile to care for others and are inspired to make products that help others. When we serve God with all our being, it is a form of loving our neighbors.
In the Church (3–8)
Not only does our work help society in general, but we are also to perform our work for fellow believers. One of the marks of the early Church was the way they demonstrated love for each other. To do this, the Holy Spirit has given each believer gifts to help in supporting the body. Paul lists some of these gifts in chapter 12. These gifts are to be used to serve and encourage the Church and are not to be neglected. This is why church attendance is so important for believers. It is where we are encouraged and where we can serve one another. The Church is put under stress when only a few people are willing to use their gifts. We all should be striving to serve one another and be involved in church ministries so that the body of Christ can flourish.
In relationships (9–13)
Finally, Paul emphasizes that Christians are to honor and share with each other. Churches should be known by their generosity toward their own members in need. This not only is a way of helping each other, but it is also a witness to the community that this is what Christianity is about — loving one another.
We also love our fellow believers by hating what is evil. Fellowship with believers helps us to be aware of sin in our lives. It also helps us be able to judge many worldly ideologies. Christians are sometimes fooled by claims that such beliefs are actually loving and should be supported by the Church. Other Christians help point us to Scripture to judge the worldviews we encounter every day. Focusing on discipleship and teaching within the Church is one way to prepare us and build each other up.
Share with others: