Mar 29, 2020
Originally Presented: June 8th, 2008
Scripture Reading: Romans 12:1-2
Romans 12:1 marks a significant change in the subject matter of the book. In the first eleven chapters, the focus is on the glories of God in the gospel of Christ and wonder of His salvation. It is a magnificent description of the work of our Lord Jesus Christ and His eternal redemption. But these eleven chapters are primarily description, not direction.
Chapter 12 begins the section of the book which presents commands in living which are built on the wonders of salvation described in chapters 1-11. Many areas of living are covered
. . . church life, relationships, civil obedience, differences of conviction, compassion on the poor.
The order we see so often in New Testament epistles is that doctrine precedes exhortation. Right thinking about God and His salvation in Jesus is the foundation for right living. The mind and heart rooted in truth is the only lasting motive for proper living.
Theology is the only true and holy fountain for morality. This is the Biblical arrangement of God's revelation which must govern the way we approach our lives. Living that rises from worship exalts our Father and displays His salvation in splendor and honor.