The book of Hosea is divided into two unequal sections: The first (Chapters 1–3) uses the relationship between Hosea and Gomer, to set the stage
 for the second (Chapters 4–14), which deals with God’s complaint against Israel and the coming judgment. In the first, we have the faithful prophet and the faithless bride; in the second, we see the faithful God and faithless Israel.
The theme of the book is the loyal love of God for idolatrous Israel, and the power of His redemption and forgiveness to transform her into His beloved bride.

Gene Cunningham - May 23, 2000

Living Sacrifice 01

Rom 12:1-2 - Romans 12 is a pivot point between the doctrinal section and application. Aspects presented: provision; prospect - life can be acceptable to God; progression. 12 doctrines: redeeming time; standing (positional truth); self-presentation (availability); approval; service; provision; spiritual warfare; conformity; spiritual advance; renewal; divine guidance; abundant life. Illustration: Luk 8:5-15 the seed is dependent on the soil. "I urge you therefore" a commander encouraging a soldier to stand firm. "Therefore" is there for context -- the grief of God (Eph 4:30) in Rom 9:1-5 which explains analogous privilege of sons of God in Israel as a nation, and their tragic failure. We are a spiritual nation and have greater provision. Loss of reward is at stake (Mat 8:38, Mat 10:33, Luk 9:26, Heb 11:16). "by the mercies of God" -- provisions of God's Grace (Mat 9:36). "present your bodies as a living sacrifice" taking up the cross -- just as levitical sacrifice it must be living and holy (set apart) (1Co 15:31, Gal 2:20, Mat 8:34). "Acceptable" -- well pleasing in that it fits with God's character. A believer filled with the spirit is acceptable to God (compatible), but not to the world. A character "being conformed" is developed through the renewing of your mind.

Scripture References: Matthew 9:36, Luke 8:5-15, Hebrews 11:16, Romans 12:1-2, Luke 9:26, Matthew 10:33, Matthew 8:38, Matthew 8:34, Romans 9:1-5, Galatians 2:20, Ephesians 4:30

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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.

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