Constable’s chapter summary:
“In contrasting chapters 1-11 with chapters 12-16 of Romans, perhaps the most important distinction is that the first part deals primarily with God’s actions for humanity, and the last part deals with people’s actions in response to God’s. This is an oversimplification of the book, but the distinction is a valid one. God’s provision contrasts with man’s responsibility to behave in a manner consistent with what God has done, is doing, and will do for him (cf. Eph 4:1; Php 2:12-13). The first part is more information for belief whereas the last part is more exhortation for action. The first part stresses right relations with God and the last part right relations with other people.
“Doctrine must always precede exhortation since in doctrine the saint is shown his exalted position which makes the exhortation to a holy life, a reasonable one, and in doctrine, the saint is informed as to the resources of grace he possesses with which to obey the exhortations.” [Note: Kenneth S. Wuest, Romans in the Greek New Testament for the English Reader, p. 204.]”
Main points/topics in Romans 12, as I understand it
Do Not Conform To the World’s Ways—verses 1-2
All Believers Are Needed to Help Each Other—verses 3-8
God’s definition of love—verses 9-21
Romans 12:1-2 (WEL) I implore you, brothers, by the compassions of God, that you present yourselves as a holy, living sacrifice [which is] acceptable to God [and is] your rational service [to Him]. 2 Do not be conformed to this world but be transformed by the renewing of your mind so that you may discern what [is] the good, acceptable, and perfect will of God.
V1 I implore you, brothers, by the compassions of God, that you present yourselves as a holy, living sacrifice [which is] acceptable to God [and is] your rational service [to Him].
Paul appeals to these Roman believers by God’s compassions. Since God has shown you and all believers such mercy, we should offer a sacrifice of thanksgiving and surrendering ourselves to Him.
Matthew 26:42 CSB – Again, a second time, he went away and prayed, “My Father, if this cannot pass unless I drink it, your will be done.”
The sacrifice of ourselves replaces my will be done; it is God’s will be done. Surrendering to God’s will is reasonable—He is the King of kings, and Christ-followers want to be loyal and faithful servants.
All Christ-followers are considered priests serving under the High Priest Jesus Christ (Hebrews 4:14). 1 Peter 2:5 (VW) you also, as living stones, are being built up a spiritual house, a holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.
V2 Do not be conformed to this world but be transformed by the renewing of your mind so that you may discern what [is] the good, acceptable, and perfect will of God.
We must leave the world’s way of thinking and begin to think according to God’s principles.
There are two kingdoms—God’s kingdom and the devil’s kingdom (the devil is an usurper).
There are two worldviews—God’s and the devil’s.
There are two systems of laws—God’s laws (Law of Christ) and the devil’s (always against God’s laws).
Which one will we live in, as Christ-followers?
We learn:
- The importance of surrendering to God and His kingdom principles.
- The importance of God’s kingdom principles and rejection of any others.
Questions:
- Which king and under which kingdom principles do you live?
- Do you want to live under God’s authority and His principles for life?