Read: Romans 12
Present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. (v. 1)
René Descartes was a French mathematician and philosopher known for his statement, “I think, therefore I am.” The adverb therefore means that something occurs (or should occur) because of something else. Descartes was saying that one’s ability to think is evidence that they exist. The apostle Paul uses therefore multiple times in the book of Romans to connect a section of teaching with a resulting action or truth (see Rom. 5:1 and 8:1).
In Romans 12:1, Paul once again uses this adverb as he instructs, “Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship” (NIV). There is forgiveness, reconciliation, and salvation through Christ, therefore (consequently, or, in response) we are called to live for Jesus.
Over the next two weeks, we will read through Romans 12 every day, focusing on one verse at a time, to discover the many ways that we can offer our bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God. This is the way we worship and glorify God, not by bringing an Old Testament animal sacrifice, but by offering our very self. As we begin our reading today, in view of God’s mercy, how are you a living sacrifice and therefore, how might your thoughts, words, and actions need to change?
As you pray, thank God for his mercy and ask him to help you offer your body as a living sacrifice.
Steve Petroelje is a specialized transition pastor who serves vacant churches and helps them assess health, pursue missional effectiveness, and conduct a pastoral search process. He is the past-president of the Words of Hope Board of Directors.
