God’s Perfect Will: The Transformation Endgame

Introduction

English Standard Version Chapter 12

12 I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. 2 Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.

This is possibly my favorite passage of scripture. After many years of pondering it and studying it, I still don’t fully comprehend the depth of its implications for my life.

These two verses are a hinge between the apostles theological dissertation of the gospel and his understanding of the practical application of this gospel to our everyday life.

Summary of Romans

Theology

Romans 1:18-11:36 is a section of the Book of Romans that explores God's relationship with humanity, particularly focusing on the Jews and Gentiles. Here's a brief summary:

God's Wrath and Human Sinfulness (1:18-3:20)

- Paul explains that God's wrath is revealed against all unrighteousness and sinfulness of humanity.

- He argues that both Jews and Gentiles are under sin and fall short of God's glory.

Justification by Faith (3:21-5:21)

- Paul presents the concept of justification by faith, emphasizing that salvation comes through faith in Jesus Christ, not by works of the law.

- He uses Abraham and David as examples of justification by faith.

Life in Christ (6:1-8:39)

- Paul discusses the believer's union with Christ, emphasizing that believers are dead to sin and alive to God.

- He explains the role of the law and the importance of living by the Spirit.

Israel's Unbelief and God's Sovereignty (9:1-11:36)

- Paul expresses his concern for his Jewish brethren and explores the mystery of Israel's unbelief.

- He discusses God's sovereignty in election and salvation, emphasizing that God's word has not failed.

- He concludes by praising God's wisdom and sovereignty.

This section of Romans provides a rich theological exploration of sin, salvation, and God's relationship with humanity.

Practical Application or Practice

Romans 12:3-16:27 focuses on practical Christian living and community. Here's a brief summary:

Christian Living (12:3-15:13)

- Humility and unity in the church (12:3-8)

- Love and kindness towards others (12:9-21)

- Submission to governing authorities (13:1-7)

- Loving one's neighbor (13:8-10)

- Living in light of the Lord's return (13:11-14)

- Welcoming and not judging one another (14:1-15:13)

Paul's Ministry and Plans (15:14-33)

- Paul explains his ministry to the Gentiles

- Shares his plans to visit Rome and Spain

Greetings and Farewell (16:1-27)

- Paul greets various individuals in the Roman church

- Warns against false teachers

- Concludes with a blessing

This section emphasizes the importance of living out one's faith in practical ways, building unity within the church, and trusting in God's sovereignty.

We Need Transformation

Verses 1 and 2 connect these two section in such a way that I get the sense that they are mutually inseparable.

Paul emphasizes this inseparability with THEREFORE.

οὖν

The Greek word οὖν is a postpositive particle used to indicate confirmation or inference. It refers to something previously mentioned or the current situation. It can attach to other words for emphasis and may also serve as an inferential or transitional element in various combinations.

Inferential - characterized by or involving conclusions reached on the basis of evidence and reasoning.

The weigh of his appeal is found in the THEREFORE.

His appeal becomes imperative in light of the evidences and reasonings he has demonstrated through his theological assertions.

The Greek is parakaleo. I am coming to understand that this word is closely related to comfort. It is translated in rom 12 as exhort or appeal, but in a number of other places we translate it comfort.

English Standard Version Chapter 1

3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, 4 who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.

It is a compound word - para; along side, and kaleo; to summon or call - to call along side.

Parakaleo seems to be an inherent aspect of the gospel and Paul uses it ambiguously here. The gospel is the source of healing and comfort, but it is also an appeal to participate.

Illustration of locking arms with people.

The word present is a priestly term. The people would present there sacrifice to the priest for approval.

We are called to present our bodies.

Soma

Ancient Faith Study Bible: Notes Chapter 12

Those who are moved … to turn again to the Lord out of that state of deformity wherein worldly desires conformed them to this world must receive from the Lord their reformation. ~ St. Augustine