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
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.