Scripture Reading: Romans 12:1
Introduction:
I. The New Testament book of Romans has been called the Cathedral of the Christian Faith. (Frederick Godet)
A. Since we will be spending this quarter exploring Romans 12:1-2, attention to specific details is necessary (Matthew 4:4).
II. The word, therefore, in Romans 12:1, serves as a conjunction connecting the doctrinal portion of Romans with the practical.
III. Words enable us to communicate our thoughts with each other and one word or even one letter can convey wrong information.
IV. Our focus for this study will be upon the value of connecting the previous information in Romans 1- 11 with the current verses, here in chapter 12.
Discussion:
I. “Therefore” intentionally directs our attention to what has already been said.
A. God wants us to think a certain way.
1. Let this mind be in you…(Philippians 2:5).
2. Finally, brethren, whatever things…think on these things (Philippians 4:8).
B. God is the potter and we are the clay (Isaiah 64:8).
II. “Therefore” is to emphasize previously stated truths. (Apply these to yourself.)
A. God’s wrath is revealed from heaven against ungodliness (Romans 1:18).
B. God has a plan, through the gospel to save me (Romans 1:16-17).
C. I have sinned and need God’s righteousness (Romans 3:23).
D. I am justified by faith and Abraham is my example (Romans 4-5).
E. God’s grace can cover any sin I have committed (Romans 5:20-21).
F. Thanks be to God, that when I was baptized, my old sinful self was put to death and now I am a servant of righteousness (Romans 6).
G. The law of the spirit of life in Christ has set me free (Romans 8:2).
H. Nothing can separate me from the love of God (Romans 8:31-39).
I. God’s promise to Israel is they can be saved, in Christ (Romans 9-11).
Conclusion:
“Therefore” is not stated to simply remind us of what has been written, but to motivate us to present ourselves to God and separate ourselves from the world. How can I possibly look at all He has done and then ignore what he urges me to do? HOW CAN I?