The little book of Jude is seldom read, and rarely preached—much to the loss of the Body of Christ. Whereas today many messages and ministries are trumpets giving an uncertain call (1Co 4:8), this small book is a clear call to believers in Jesus Christ to enter the invisible war raging from the beginning of time. In the age-old campaign of Satan against God, the issue is always truth or deception (Joh 8:44–45). Thus, Jude confronts the deceivers of his time with the timeless truth of the good news of life in Christ, and challenges those who have received this life to “contend earnestly [struggle valiantly] for the faith.”

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: Ephesians 4:30, 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

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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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