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