This study was presented in the August 2013 Bible conference in Southern California.Though Corinth was a “problem church” for Paul, how thankful we ought to be for them, for without their problems and questions, we would not have the answers and guidance provided in this wonderful letter. As with all the epistles, the challenge is to lay hold of the character of Christ. We are to be “transformed by the renewing of [our] minds” (Rom 12:2), and to “Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus” (Phi 2:5).
Key verses for this study:
- “For I determined not to know anything among you except Jesus Christ and Him crucified.” 1Co 2:2 and
- “Therefore purge out the old leaven, that you may be a new lump, since you are truly unleavened. For indeed Christ, our Passover, was sacrificed for us.” 1Co 5:7
1st Corinthians – California 2013
Gene Cunningham - May 23, 2000
Living Sacrifice 20
Rom 12:1-2 contains 12 subjects: (1) Time is short (2) appreciation for the brethren, (3) exploit God's provisions, mercies of God, (4) pick up your cross, (5)divine approval, (6) fruitful Christian service, (7) separate and sanctified (8) spiritual warfare (9) progressively conform to the image of Christ (10) diligence being a student of the Word of God (11) will of God for us must be demonstrated (12) the abundant life. "Present youselves a living sacrifice" means avail yourself to service. The word "present yourselves" to means the body being prepared for "service" (Mat 26:53, Rom 6:12-19). Death reigns through sin, but the abundance of Grace provisions make us the master in our own life (Rom 5:12-17). Grace sets us free from slavery to demonstrate the Kingdom of God to men (Rom 6:14). Paul shows the concept of our body as a spiritual base of operations (2Co 6:6-7). Believer is a temple of the Holy Spirit; the weapon is our spiritual gift.
Scripture References: Romans 6:14, Romans 5:12-17, Romans 6:12-19, Matthew 26:53, Romans 12:1-2
From Series: "Living Sacrifice (1995)"
Romans 12 and specifically Rom 12:1-2 is a pivot point between the doctrinal section and application of the book. This series methodically uses this passage to outline aspects or doctrines of the christian life -- God's provision and our prospect. Our lives can be acceptable to God if we progress on the path He intends. Living Sacrifice presents 12 doctrines: (1) redeeming time; (2) standing (positional truth); (3) self-presentation - availability; (4) approval; (5) service; (6) provision; (7) spiritual warfare; (8) conformity; (9) spiritual advance; (10) renewal; (11) divine guidance; (12) abundant life.