I have begun a series of posts on the message of Romans 12 entitled “Life on the Altar: The Life We Are Called to Live.” I expect this study will take us into the summer, and my prayer is that it will be an encouragement to you in your walk with Christ.

The legacy of the book of Romans roars through the centuries as a clarion word to the content and power of the Gospel. From Augustine to Luther to Wesley to a countless multitude, each coming to saving faith in Jesus Christ through the inspired message of this doctrinal treasure. The book of Romans continues to make an impact in this world for “faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of Christ.” (Romans 10:17)

Romans 12:1 is a major pivot as the apostle Paul writes, “Therefore I urge you, brethren, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies a living and holy sacrifice, acceptable to God, which is your spiritual service of worship. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect.” (12:1-2 NASB)

When Paul wrote, “Therefore,” I don’t think there has been a more consequential conjunction every used! Typically, conjunctions (and, or, but, however, etc) don’t energize us. However, in this instance, Paul’s use of “Therefore” points back to the previous chapters in which he labored to communicate what God has done in Christ. This means our lives are built on something substantial.  Because of what Christ has accomplished for us as believers, we are called to live surrendered lives to do his will in this world. (more…)