Marks of True Devotion Romans 12:1-8

Introduction Beginning of the practical portion –First eleven chapters was the theme of salvation by faith –Now we see the applications

Introduction Proper way to show devotion to God –Service is spiritual (reasonable, KJV) –The flesh of man is not indulged

Self Sacrifice (v. 1) Compare to Gentiles –Indulged the flesh (Romans 1:24) –Acted as if that was the body’s purpose (1 Corinthians 6:12, 13, 19, 20) –Modern idea of “If it feels good do it.”

Self Sacrifice (v. 1) Comparison –Jewish sacrifices offered after death –Both were to be holy, acceptable to God and without blemish

Self Sacrifice (v. 1) Complete surrender –Key to serving God (2 Corinthians 8:5) –Paul was willing to do all he could (2 Corinthians 12:14) –“Self is the altar upon which every acceptable sacrifice to God is made”

Self Alteration (v. 2) Viewed negatively –Not like the world (1 Peter 1:14) –Not to love the world (1 John 2:15-17) –Deny ungodliness and worldly lusts (Titus 2:11-14)

Self Alteration (v. 2) Viewed positively –Transformed (v. 2) –Undergo a spiritual metamorphosis (Romans 6:3-5) –In short, we are different people

Self Examination (v. 3) Crucial to proper growth –Examine ourselves (2 Corinthians 10:12-18; 13:5) –Do not overestimate (1 Corinthians 4:6) –Do not underestimate like Moses (Exodus 3)

Self Examination (v. 3) Proper standard –God’s word (James 1:23-25) –God gives to us according to the measure of our faith (Romans 12:3)

Self Involvement (vv. 4-8) Something for all of us to do –Many members of one body (1 Corinthians 12:12) –Each member is useful

Self Involvement (vv. 4-8) The design is perfect –Our spiritual service –He accepts what we have to offer (2 Corinthians 8:12)

Self Involvement (vv. 4-8) Designed to work together –Each contributes something to the whole –To be no division (1 Corinthians 12:25) –Have the same care for one another

Conclusion Are you devoted to God? Time to examine ourselves