Some may ask, “Why should we study the missionary methods of Paul? Surely, in all this time, we have grown beyond his old ways and have found better ways of accomplishing ministry.”
To this I would say, look around at the condition of the church at large throughout the world today, and see if you can find a model of success that compares to Paul. Yes, we have our “mega-churches.” They have huge congregations and lots of money, but are they successful in the sight of God? Are they raising up a generation of mature, Bible-instructed believers? I think not. The ignorance of the average believer today is astounding. Many cannot even give a clear presentation of the Gospel message.
In a recent survey across the United States, only about 13% of regular church goers said that they believe in hell, and about the same number doubted the inspiration and infallibility of the Bible. The church as a whole is in a shambles, and the reason is that we have forsaken the God-given way—exemplified by Paul—to achieve the great commission of “making disciples of all nations” (Mat 28:19).

Gene Cunningham - May 23, 2000

Living Sacrifice 12

Rom 12:1-2 contians 12 major doctrines and summarizes the book of Romans. Value of being "brethren" comes from Christ and emphasized throughout scripture(1Pe 1:22, Heb 2:18, Rom 8:1, Heb 4:16). Paul's value of the meaning of brotherhood is found in Romans chapter nine through eleven. Paul warned Israel continually of the need for faith. Paul calls on witnesses (2Co 13:1) -- Christ, the Holy Spirit, and his conscience -- to counter his accusers that he was a traitor (Rom 9:1) "Christ is the end of the law to those who have believed" (Rom 10:4). Paul had great anquish for the loss Israel had sustained because of unbelief. (Rom 9:2). We should have these feelings regarding others who don't believe. Paul had wished himself accursed (Rom 9:3), but something stopped him (2Co 12:8). His motives drove him in his ministry (1Co 15:10, 1Co 9:19-27). Blessings Israel had (Rom 9:4-5): everything God gave them doesn't even come close to what God has provided believers in the Church Age.

Scripture References: Romans 10:4, Romans 9:1, Hebrews 4:16, Romans 8:1, Romans 9:4-5, Hebrews 2:18, Romans 9:3, Romans 12:1-2, Romans 9:2

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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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