The Scripture makes it very clear that as we focus on purity we experience power from above. Paul stressed this in his final letter to his understudy Timothy. “Therefore if anyone cleanses himself from the latter [i.e., “iniquity”], he will be a vessel for honor, sanctified and useful for the Master, prepared for every good work” (2Ti 2:21). How? The process is simple: God the Father works through the Son. The Son works through the Holy Spirit. The Spirit works through the Word. The Word works through the believer. The believer works through living faith.
1st Thessalonians – The Word Working in You – Uniontown, PA 2007Gene Cunningham - May 23, 2000
Living Sacrifice 14
He is not ashamed to call us brethren (Heb 2:14). Paul uses Elijah as example to illustrate the role of the remnant during times of apostacy (Rom 11:1-6). "There is a remnant according to the election of grace" (Rom 11:5). Grace is God's invitation (Rom 5:8). Faith is the response to the call. When Grace and faith come together, that's "the election of grace". We should have the confidence that the remnant has. Has God forsaken Israel? No (Rom 11:1). Paul knew he was part of the remnant in a theocratic nation. Today there is a remnant (Rom 11:5). Out of the national people of God were a few who were of the spiritual people of God (Christians). Paul stood accountable to God (1Co 4:3-4, Joh 16:7-11).
Scripture References: Romans 5:8, Romans 11:5, Romans 11:1-6, Hebrews 2:14, John 16:7-11, Romans 11:5, Romans 11:1
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.