This conference was held in the spring 2013 in Colorado. It complements the two previous Bible conferences held in Arkansas and Northern Virginia.
In addition to being styled "an apostle to the Gentiles" (Rom 11:13), Paul could also be called the apostle of the Mystery. This "mystery" contained new revelation intended for a new people—the Church—living in a new age or dispensation of God’s plan.
"now to Him who is able to establish you according to my gospel and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery kept secret since the world began, but now made manifest, and by the prophetic scriptures made known to all nations, according to the commandment of the everlasting God, for obedience to the faith …" Rom 16:25–26

Taking the Enigma Out of Paul’s Mystery – Colorado 2013

Gene Cunningham - May 23, 2000

Living Sacrifice 22

Rom 12:1-2 "present your bodies a living sacrifice" means that we stand constantly with a mental attitude and motivation to please God. "acceptable to God" walk by faith; live life through Divine viewpoint. Jesus Christ set the motivation standard, the tone of daily life (Rom 15:3, Joh 8:29). This is the essence of discipleship == "take up your cross" (Heb 12:2, Mat 16:24). If the believer seeks the approval of God, he will face hostility from men (Gal 1:10, Luk 16:15). What men strive for God detests. The path of God's approval is persecution (2Ti 3:12, Mat 5:10-12). The issue of relationship with God, and hence acceptability, is love (Rom 13:9) -- adjusting to His standards. To gain God's approval, you need strong motivation (2Ti 2:15). Jesus rebuked the Pharisees because they were motivated to gain the approval of men. God's approval requires we be tested (Phi 3:13). To be a "workman" requires faithfulness (1Co 4:2). The worst thing is to be ashamed at His coming (1Jo 2:28). God's approval is contingent on assimilating God's word (Psa 19:14).

Scripture References: Romans 15:3, Matthew 5:10-12, Romans 12:1-2, Luke 16:15, Galatians 1:10, Psalms 19:14, Matthew 16:24, John 2:28, Hebrews 12:2, Philippians 3:13, John 8:29, Romans 13:9

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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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