Romans 12 is a passage I’ve read many times, but this year it’s my personal theme.  I’m reading it – studying it – striving to understand how God wants to me to apply it.  I’ve challenged our staff and leaders to read & meditate on it over and over throughout the year; I’d encourage you to do the same.  Therefore, from time to time – I’ll blog on something from Romans 12.

(Rom 12:1 NIV)  Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God — this is your spiritual act of worship.

Why offer our body as a “living” sacrifice to God in order to serve Him & build His Kingdom in our generation & generations to come? 

Because of the “mercy” of God to all of us who have embraced the truth of Jesus Christ.   Think about what the scripture says of those of us who are “real-believers” not “make-believers”: we are His beloved – we are the recipients of His kindness – we are justified and not condemned – we have been given faith, hope & peace – we are forgiven & have the promise of a forever home with Him – we have received His Spirit – we are being conformed to the image of Christ – and the list could go on and on. 

Why offer our body as a “living” sacrifice to God?  Because that’s how He has chosen to work in this world to build His Kingdom.  It requires people like you and me to use our bodies physically to carry out His ongoing work in the world. 

Why offer our body as a “living” sacrifice to God?   Because a life sold out to Jesus Christ is one that is “a well pleasing sacrifice” that invites God’s presence and pleasure.  Have you ever noticed how the smell of sizzling fajitas or someone grilling nearby grabs your attention and impacts several of your senses.  It’s like you’re drawn to that aroma (it’s well pleasing).  A life that is consecrated to God & offered as a “living” sacrifice is that kind of aroma to God; it’s well pleasing to Him & invites His presence & pleasure.

Why offer our body as a “living” sacrifice to God?   Because it’s actually an act of true worship, and scripture says the Father seeks those who will worship Him in spirit and in truth.