THE EARLY CHURCH IN ROME - Our Reasonable Service

A LIVING SACRIFICE

Read Romans 11–12

     As far as the gospel is concerned, they are enemies on your account; but as far as election is concerned, they are loved… for God's gifts and his call are irrevocable.   Romans 11:28a-29 NIV

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     In this section Paul addresses the believers who were saved as a result of his ministry to Gentiles. Paul’s own people have for the most part, rejected the gospel, but one day there will be an awakening in Israel. He writes, 
     “I do not want you to be ignorant of this mystery, brothers, so that you may not be conceited: Israel has experienced a hardening in part until the full number of the Gentiles has come in. And so all Israel will be saved…   (11:25-26a NIV)

     Paul reminds the Gentile Christians that God still has plans for the Jews who are now opposing them: He says, “Just as you who were at one time disobedient to God have now received mercy as a result of their disobedience, so they too have now become disobedient in order that they too may now receive mercy as a result of God's mercy to you.   (11:30-31 NIV) In view of this great mercy to them and to us, what are we to do? 

    "I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service." Romans 12:1 NKJV

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     I am so thankful that the gospel was presented to me along with your merciful gift of faith to believe it. I am praying for those precious people who seem unable to come to faith and receive your gift of salvation. 

     Lord grant me wisdom as I share Your Word in a way they can understand.  Draw them by the influence of Your Holy Spirit to become part of the family of Christ.

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     For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the measure of faith God has given you. Romans 12:3 NIV