Titled - "Be Ye Transformed"
Written by: Pastor Bob Lawrenz
Romans 12 – The Apostle Paul has seen both sides of mankind, and he learned more about God and His desires for mankind than even he thought possible. He did not learn these things at the feet of his teachers in the ways of Judaism. He learned them during his wilderness experience with the Holy Spirit. The author of the Scriptures brings a greater depth of understanding.
Just as Moses had his 40 year experience in the wilderness and learned of God’s ways, Paul had his own wilderness experience, learning from the Spirit of God, which is the Spirit of Christ, i.e. the Holy Spirit. Trial and tribulations will find all of us sooner or later, and we will all have a wilderness experience as the Holy Spirit draws us to Jesus and we all cry out to Him.
How often have we read in the Psalms that King David found himself in a trial and he cried out to the Lord, and God heard his cry, and saved him. This was especially true when David found himself being chased by King Saul and 3,000 of Saul’s Army. David fled to the Philistines to hide; he fled to the witches of Endor for insight and wisdom, And in 1 Samuel 22, he found rest in a cave, only to discover that King Saul took shelter in that same cave overnight. David’s burdens were great, fearing for his life, and his temptations grew greater as his men thought that Saul had been delivered into their hands by God. But David showed mercy and respect to Saul, realizing how much mercy God had shown to David himself, even through the ordeal with Goliath.
Finding Saul and his soldiers in the cave with him and his men, David showed mercy, believing that Saul was God’s anointed King. In the end, it was an Amalakite that slew Saul and his son, Jonathan, allowing David to take the Throne of all Israel. God spared David the task of removing Saul from the throne, more mercy on David again!
Love begets love, mercy begets more mercy. Hatred begets more hatred. Anger begets more anger. “…Choose you this day whom ye will serve: …as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.” – Joshua 24:15
From I Timothy 6:6 -
Romans 12 – The Apostle Paul has seen both sides of mankind, and he learned more about God and His desires for mankind than even he thought possible. He did not learn these things at the feet of his teachers in the ways of Judaism. He learned them during his wilderness experience with the Holy Spirit. The author of the Scriptures brings a greater depth of understanding.
Just as Moses had his 40 year experience in the wilderness and learned of God’s ways, Paul had his own wilderness experience, learning from the Spirit of God, which is the Spirit of Christ, i.e. the Holy Spirit. Trial and tribulations will find all of us sooner or later, and we will all have a wilderness experience as the Holy Spirit draws us to Jesus and we all cry out to Him.
How often have we read in the Psalms that King David found himself in a trial and he cried out to the Lord, and God heard his cry, and saved him. This was especially true when David found himself being chased by King Saul and 3,000 of Saul’s Army. David fled to the Philistines to hide; he fled to the witches of Endor for insight and wisdom, And in 1 Samuel 22, he found rest in a cave, only to discover that King Saul took shelter in that same cave overnight. David’s burdens were great, fearing for his life, and his temptations grew greater as his men thought that Saul had been delivered into their hands by God. But David showed mercy and respect to Saul, realizing how much mercy God had shown to David himself, even through the ordeal with Goliath.
Finding Saul and his soldiers in the cave with him and his men, David showed mercy, believing that Saul was God’s anointed King. In the end, it was an Amalakite that slew Saul and his son, Jonathan, allowing David to take the Throne of all Israel. God spared David the task of removing Saul from the throne, more mercy on David again!
Love begets love, mercy begets more mercy. Hatred begets more hatred. Anger begets more anger. “…Choose you this day whom ye will serve: …as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.” – Joshua 24:15
From I Timothy 6:6 -
“Godliness with contentment is great gain.”
Sunday Morning Message:
Romans 12:1-21 - "Be Ye Transformed"
Summary/Additional Commentary and Definitions:
After teaching the great doctrine regarding the gospel of God’s righteousness that is ours through faith in Christ in Romans chapters 1—11, Paul begins to exhort us to godly living. The key to a productive and satisfying Christian life is not in getting more but in giving all. Lord, take all of me!
In John 4:23, Jesus said, "But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him." God gave Himself for us in order that we might give ourselves to Him.
So, what does a transformed life look like? How are we to live in light of the saving power of the gospel?
As we begin Romans chapter 12, the exhortation in verses 1-2 really serves as a summary statement of all that follows. A living sacrifice to God is one who does not conform, but is transformed. We are not to be conformed to this world. Paul is using the word "world" here to refer to the spirit of the age. In other words, "world" refers to the popular worldview that rejects God and His revelation. As unbelievers, we are naturally conformed to the world (Ephesians 2:1–3). But as believers, we are no longer conformed to this world because we no longer belong to the spirit of this age. We have been translated from the kingdom of darkness into the kingdom of God’s beloved Son (Colossians 1:13). Therefore, rather than continuing to conform to this world, we are to be transformed by having our minds renewed. The only way to replace the error of the world’s way of thinking is to replace it with God’s truth, and the only infallible source of God’s truth is His revealed Word, the Bible. There are no shortcuts.
In John 4:23, Jesus said, "But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him." God gave Himself for us in order that we might give ourselves to Him.
So, what does a transformed life look like? How are we to live in light of the saving power of the gospel?
As we begin Romans chapter 12, the exhortation in verses 1-2 really serves as a summary statement of all that follows. A living sacrifice to God is one who does not conform, but is transformed. We are not to be conformed to this world. Paul is using the word "world" here to refer to the spirit of the age. In other words, "world" refers to the popular worldview that rejects God and His revelation. As unbelievers, we are naturally conformed to the world (Ephesians 2:1–3). But as believers, we are no longer conformed to this world because we no longer belong to the spirit of this age. We have been translated from the kingdom of darkness into the kingdom of God’s beloved Son (Colossians 1:13). Therefore, rather than continuing to conform to this world, we are to be transformed by having our minds renewed. The only way to replace the error of the world’s way of thinking is to replace it with God’s truth, and the only infallible source of God’s truth is His revealed Word, the Bible. There are no shortcuts.
This chapter focuses on the implications of the gospel for everyday behavior, emphasizing the transformation of believers, their roles within the church, and their conduct in the broader society. Paul provides practical guidance on how to live out the Christian faith through love, humility, and service.
Sunday Morning Audio Message:
Sunday Morning Audio Message:
All music on this website is used by permission:
CCLI License # 2457349
CCLI License # 2457349
Key Words and Definitions with Reference:
Beseech (12:1) - In the Greek, parakaleō comes from the root which means "to call alongside to help" i.e. invite, invoke. It later came to connote exhorting, encouraging, or counseling: —beseech, call for, (be of good) comfort, desire, (give) exhort(-ation), intreat, pray. It is often translated as "Helper," in reference to the Holy Spirit. (See John 14:16, 26; 15:26; 16:7).
Therefore (12:1) - Used in reference to the doxology at the end of chapter 11. Since all things are for the glory of God, we respond likewise. We offer ourselves as living sacrifices for His purposes and glory.
Mercies of God (12:1) - Paul expounded on the mercies of God which include God's love (1:7; cf. 5:5; 8:35, 39), His grace (1:6,7; 3:24; 5:2, 20, 21; 6:15), His righteousness (1:17; 3:21,22; 4:5,6,22-24; 5:17, 19), and also the gift of faith (1:5, 17; 3:22, 26; 4:5, 13; 5:1; 10:7; 12:3).
Present Your Bodies a Living Sacrifice (12:1) - Paul’s admonition to the believers in Rome was to sacrifice themselves to God, not as a sacrifice on the altar, as the Mosaic Law required the sacrifice of animals, but as a living sacrifice. Under the Old Covenant, God accepted the sacrifices of animals. But these were just a foreshadowing of the sacrifice of the Lamb of God, Jesus Christ. Because of His ultimate, once-for-all-time sacrifice on the cross, the Old Testament sacrifices became obsolete and are no longer of any effect (Hebrews 9:11-12). For those who are in Christ by virtue of saving faith, the only acceptable worship is to offer ourselves completely to the Lord. Under God’s control, the believer’s yet-unredeemed body can and must be yielded to Him as an instrument of righteousness (Romans 6:12-13; 8:11-13). In view of the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus for us, this is only “reasonable.”
Reasonable Service (12:1) - "Reasonable" comes from the Greek word logikós, meaning rational or logical. God has blessed believers with spiritual riches that only come by His wonderful mercy. It is reasonable therefore that those who love Him, who have put their trust in Him should offer their best, their highest form of service. Priests in the Old Testament were chosen by God for a purpose, to serve God with their lives through the offering of sacrifices. In the New Testament believers are chosen by God for a purpose, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, not blood sacrifices. Jesus has made one sacrifice for sin for all time, none other needs to be made. 1 Peter 2:5–9: “Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ. . . . But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light."
Do Not Be Conformed (12:2) - This is a firm warning not to conform or fashion one's self (both mind and character) to another's pattern. This refers to the way we assume an outward expression that does not reflect who we are in Christ.
This World (12:2) - or this "age." We are not to conform to the world's standards, it's system of beliefs, values, or the spirit of the age which is a world that is dominated by Satan.
Transformed (12:2) - Comes from the Greek word metamorphóō, which means to transform (literally or figuratively, "metamorphose"): —change, transfigure, transform. Matthew uses the same word to describe the Transfiguration of Jesus (17:2). Outwardly Christ's glory was seen at the Transfiguration, so ought Christians outwardly manifest the new nature we have been given, not just once, but daily.
Renewing of Your Mind (12:2) - Our renewed minds were once blinded by the god of this world, Satan (2 Corinthians 4:4). In Christ they can be and should be in harmony with and guided His Spirit. We are to have the mind of Christ (1 Corinthians 2:16).
Good . . . Acceptable . . . Perfect (12:2) - God's will for the believer is good, acceptable and perfect. These words describe a life that is Holy (set apart) morally, spiritually spotless from the stain of sin. As we offer our whole selves to Him, He transforms and redirects our lives. As believers renounce the ways of the world and submit to Christ, their minds, hearts, and wills are renewed by God’s Word and Spirit. This is how we can test and approve God’s will.
Grace (12:3) - The undeserved favor of God which called Paul to be an apostle giving him spiritual authority (Romans 1:1-5) and producing a sincere humility (1 timothy 1:12-14).
Soberly (12:3) - Comes from the Greek word sōphronéō, which means to be of sound mind, be in right mind. This is the exercise of sound judgment.
Measure of Faith (12:3) - The faith God has given to each of us. Not only is faith a gift from God but recognizing that prevents pride and encourages “sober judgment.” We should recognize the limits of the gifts God has given us, and also acknowledge the gifts that others possess, and that each believer is divinely placed into Christ as a vital and functioning part of His spiritual Body (Romans 12:4–8; cf. 1 Corinthians 12:27). No member is superior to any other.
Many Members . . . One Body (12:40) - Just as in the natural body, God has given the body of Christ a unified diversity.
In Christ (12:5) - Every true believer is unified with Christ.
According to the Grace . . . Given (12:6) The gifts are given, they are undeserved and unmerited. The gift, the way in which it is used, and the results are chosen by the Spirit.
Prophecy (12:6) - The Greek word translated “prophesying” or “prophecy” means to “speak forth” or declare the divine will, to interpret the purposes of God, or to make known in any way the truth of God which is designed to influence people. A pastor/preacher who declares the Bible can be considered a “prophesier” in that he is speaking forth the counsel of God. With the completion of the New Testament canon, prophesying changed from declaring new revelation to declaring the completed revelation God has already given. Jude 3 speaks of “the faith which was once delivered unto the saints” (emphasis added). In other words, the faith to which we hold has been settled forever, and it does not need the addition or refinement that comes from extra-biblical revelations. Christians are to be very wary of those who claim to have a “new” message from God. No utterance of man should be considered equal to or above the written Word. We must hold to the Word that God has already given and commit ourselves to sola scriptura—or Scripture alone.
In Proportion to our Faith (12:6) - The Greek word, analogia, translated "proportion" is essentially a mathematical term. One with a prophetic gift was able to use such a gift effectively in direct proportion to the strength of faith, or the faith, which is the full revealed message or body of Christian faith (Jude 3; 2 Timothy 4:2).
Ministry (12:7) - In the Greek diakonia from which we get our word "deacon" and "deaconess" referring to those who serve and is similar to the gift of helps. It includes every kind of practical help (Acts 20:35; 1 Corinthians 12:28).
Teaching (12:7) - The only gifts included in all three listings are the gifts of prophecy and teaching. This is the ability to interpret, clarify, and explain God's truth clearly (cf. Acts 18:24, 25; 2 Timothy 2:2). Pastors MUST have the gift of teaching (1 Timothy 3:2; Titus 1:9; cf. 1 Timothy 4:16), but many mature, qualified laymen also have this gift. This differs from preaching (prophecy), not in content, but the unique skill for public proclamation.
Exhortation (12:8) - From the Greek word parakaléō, meaning to call near, i.e. invite, invoke (by imploration, hortation or consolation): —beseech, call for, (be of good) comfort, desire, (give) exhort(-ation), intreat, pray. This gift enables a believer to effectively call others to obey and follow God's truth. It can be used to admonish and correct sin, or encourage, comfort and strengthen struggling believers.
Gives (12:8) - Giving of oneself or resources to meet the needs of others.
Simplicity (12:8) - From the Greek word hap-lot'-ace, which means singlemindedness, i.e. openhearted generosity, sincerity not looking for thanks and recognition, but does so for the Glory of God.
Shows Mercy (12:8) - The believer with this gift actively shows sympathy and sensitivity to those who are suffering. They are willing and able to help lessen someone's suffering with the resources they have.
Cheerfulness (12:8) - is in connection with showing mercy. It is an attitude of the heart that is encouraging not a discouraging commiseration with those suffering.
Dissimulation (12:9) - or hypocrisy. Christian love is to be real, pure and sincere, without selfish motive or agenda.
Kindly Affectionate . . . brotherly Love (12:10) - We are the family of God. We are to be devoted to God and to one another.
Preferring One Another (12:10) - If we want to love others as Christ does, we will follow His example of humility, thinking of others before ourselves.
Fervent In Spirit (12:11) - When we serve one another we cannot be lazy, we are to be diligent and enthusiastic. The Spirit of God is alive in us, not dead, not lazy but zealous. Paul wants believers to use all their spiritual energy, excitement, and devotion in ministering to others as they serve the Lord.
Fervent In Spirit (12:11) - When we serve one another we cannot be lazy, we are to be diligent and enthusiastic. The Spirit of God is alive in us, not dead, not lazy but zealous. Paul wants believers to use all their spiritual energy, excitement, and devotion in ministering to others as they serve the Lord.
Rejoicing In Hope (12:12) - Of Christ's return and our ultimate redemption.
Patient in Tribulation (12:12) The Greek text, the verb for “be patient” means “to be persistent, refuse to stop, persevere.” Tribulation is an oppressive, distressing state of physical, mental, social, or economic adversity or affliction.
Continuing Steadfastly in Prayer (12:12) - This is the constancy of prayer. When we pray without ceasing, we are acknowledging that our life belongs to the one who gave His own life to preserve ours and turning over our will and our desires to Him (Matthew 26:36–46; Romans 8:26–30; 1 Peter 5:6–7; 1 John 5:14–15). We are fully engaging in the privilege of relationship with the one who knows us completely, loves us with perfect love, and transforms us into His image. We are acknowledging spiritual realities and living our lives intentionally in God's presence, longing for the day we will be complete in Him (1 Corinthians 13:8–13; Hebrews 10:19–23).
Distributing (12:13) - From the Greek work that means commonality, partnership, or mutual sharing. It is often translated "fellowship," and "communion" (Acts 2:42, 44).
Given to Hospitality (12:13) - In the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus discusses the hospitable behavior of those who will inherit the kingdom: “For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me” (Matthew 25:34-36). In these days we often don’t think much about entertaining strangers, but hospitality is still an important part of Christian ministry (Romans 12:13; 1 Peter 4:9). By serving others we serve Christ (Matthew 25:40) and we promote the spread of God’s truth (3 John 5-8).
Bless Those Who Persecute You (12:14) - The concept of blessing those who persecute you goes beyond mere words; it involves praying for their well-being, seeking to understand their perspective, and responding with kindness and grace. When we are persecuted, we respond in love and forgiveness.
Rejoice . . . Weep (12:15) - We are to be genuinely happy in the blessings of others, and equally sensitive or compassionate to the hardships of others.
Same Mind One Toward Another (12:16) - Be impartial (James 2:1-4, 9; cf. Acts 10:34; 1 Timoth 5:21; 1 Peter 1:17).
Mind Not High Things (12:16) - Haughtiness with self-seeking pride
Recompense No One Evil For Evil (12:17) - Addressing the idea of revenge. Meting out retribution for an evil act is simply not our responsibility. It is the wrath of God that will enact judgment on evil. God will give vengeance and ultimately judge the works of mankind (Romans 12:19; Revelation 20:11–15; Hebrews 10:30). It is our role is to “do what is right” (Romans 12:17) and “overcome evil with good” (Romans 12:21).
Heap Coals of Fire on His Head (12:20) - This refers to an ancient Egyptian custom in which a person who wanted to show public contrition carried a pan of burning coals on his head. The coals represented the burning pain of his shame and guilt. When believers lovingly help their enemies, it should bring shame to such people for their hate and animosity (cf. Proverbs 25:21, 22).
