by Roby Ellis

[Scripture Reading: Romans 12:1-2]

Introduction

A. When properly executed, the OT sacrificial system must have been a marvel, and yet Paul says it was only “a shadow of the good things to come” (Hebrews 10:1).

B. These sacrifices required extensive preparation before they could be offered, and this holds true for our sacrifice as well.

I. God prepared Jesus a body for the performing of His will.

A. The OT sacrifices were prepared carefully according to the law prescribed by God (Leviticus 1-7).

B. Remission of sins would only come through the offering of a body prepared by God Himself (Hebrews 10:4-5; 5:8-9).

C. Our bodies must also be prepared for our service to God (Leviticus 8; John 13:8; James 4:8; 1:27; Hebrews 10:22).

D. The sacrifice that God demands is a living sacrifice (Romans 12:1; 6:10-11).

II. What does a living sacrifice look like? How does it live?

A. This sacrifice lives for the good of the body (Romans 12).

B. This sacrifice lives in submission to authority (Romans 13).

C. This sacrifice lives for the Lord alone (Romans 14).

D. This sacrifice lives to serve others (Romans 15).

Conclusion

A. To surrender one’s life for a glorious cause is noble indeed, but it is equally noble to surrender it consistently for a lifetime.

B. God does not care for sacrifices that die against their will; He wants sacrifices that will live before Him of their own free will.