At this point, Paul has essentially concluded what he wants his readers to know about God’s plan of salvation, with a strong emphasis that mankind can only be saved through the mercy of God. Paul also pointed out that even though we believers may never fully understand how or why God works the way He does, it is important that we accept those ways, as His understanding, knowledge and resources are without limits. We must trust and have faith in Jesus, as He is the only path to salvation. Paul now stops and urges us to apply what we know about God through His Word and live accordingly. Chapter twelve begins with two vital concepts that every Jesus-following Christian should be aware of as they are both fundamental (essential to our walk with Him) and foundational (the platform on which we build our Christian lives on). To say they are important, would be a massive understatement.
12:1 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.
Paul begins this section on how to live as a Christian by appealing to his readers that we are to, by the mercies of God, present to Him our bodies as living sacrifices. Before continuing, we need to ask what is a ‘sacrifice’, or more precisely, how does the Bible define or use the word ‘sacrifice’? In the Bible the word is commonly used in two ways, the first application refers to the act of killing an animal as an offering to God (also used in conjunction with idol worship). We see here in this verse, Paul connecting us to the Old Testament process of worshiping God through the offering of sacrifices, as he further explains they were to be, “holy and acceptable to God.” But how does that apply to us? Especially since he says they are to be “as a living sacrifice,” which leads us to the second common use of the word ‘sacrifice’, that would be as a metaphor. In this application it is referring to our rejection of things of this world (priorities, values, etc.) and the willingness to embrace God and His ways instead. We ‘sacrifice’ who we were to follow Jesus, nothing else matters anymore. Paul then identifies this as our spiritual act of worship.
The Greek word that is translated here as ‘spiritual’ is ‘logikos’, which means something that is reasonable or logical. The word ‘worship’ is the Greek word ‘latreia’, referring to service, with emphasis of being hired to serve. Paul is saying that by obeying and living according to what Jesus taught, is how we worship God. Jesus made it clear when He said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” Jesus said all authority has been given to Him and that we are to observe (apply) all that He taught us to do. If we don’t live as instructed, we certainly can’t effectively teach it to others.
The English word ‘worship’ is often misunderstood by Christians and non-Christians alike. Both the Middle English and Old English words were derived from two words; ‘worth’, referring to something of value or importance; and ‘ship’, an English suffix that denotes either condition, character, office, or skill; constructing words like ‘friendship’. Therefore, the English word ‘worship’ implies giving or doing something that has value. In the New Testament there are a number of Greek words that are often translated into the English language as worship, worshiping or worshiper. One of those words is ‘lateria’, as seen here in this verse, which as explained above, captures the idea of being hired or being of service, in some cases as a servant or slave. Does that imply that we are to follow a strict protocol or procedure to worship God? No. Since a Christian is best defined as a person who has a personal relationship with Jesus and not a ‘religion’ (in the sense of having to follow any specific ceremony, procedure or ritual), the process of how to worship is not defined in the New Testament for Christians, other than through our obedience and following of Jesus. The predominant word in the New Testament that is most often translated as ‘worship’ is ‘proskynēo’, which means “to kiss,” referring to our action (or series of actions) that result in showing respect, obeisance, or to fall prostrate before someone. Interestingly, Paul only used that word once (see 1 Corinthians 14:25).
So, what does Paul mean by, “bodies as a living sacrifice?” It means we worship God through our continual obedience to Jesus (24/7). Without our loving obedience to Jesus, we would essentially be wasting our time by trying to worship Him in any other manner. We need to remember Jesus’ reply when asked what the greatest commandment was, He said, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the great and first commandment. And a second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself. On these two commandments depend all the Law and the Prophets.” (Matthew 22:37-40) Jesus is our priority; we abide in Him as we continue to do what He has called us to do (see also John 15:10). But how do we know what to do? How do we know what pleases Him? God gave us His Word, the Bible, so that we can know Him and also know what pleases Him. We need to study the Word so that we can know, grow and go in His name.
12:2 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.
Paul adds that we are not to conform to the ways of world (see also 1 Peter 1:14-16; 1 John 2:15-17). Once again Paul pleads with us to not think like those of this time and age, referring to human wisdom and knowledge, nor are we to embrace their ideas of life’s priorities or values. Instead, we are to be transformed (to change from one form to another) by the renewing of our minds. The Greek word that is translated here as ‘renewal’ is ‘anakainosis’, which can also be translated as ‘renovation’. What are two things a renovation requires? Something old (our old way of thinking) and something new (making Jesus our number one priority in life). We should not be like some “renovation projects” that get started but never finished. With Jesus we can replace and purge the world’s priorities and influences in our minds with God’s values and priorities (see also 2 Corinthians 4:16-18; Ephesians 4:20-24; Colossians 3:8-10; Titus 3:4-9). Paul tells us that then we will be able to discern God’s will. Can we know God’s will? Yes! But how? By applying what Paul says here, we are to be changed by renovating how we think. Then we can see for ourselves God’s will, as His Word comes alive in us. The Greek word that is translated here as ‘discern’ is ‘dokimazo’, meaning to test or prove. When God’s Word is applied in our lives, we become closer to God. That fellowship allows us to abide in His Son allowing us to see His good, acceptable and perfect will.
These two verses remind us that we are to reject the world and embrace Jesus. Those two things are essential for every Christian that desires to truly serve and honor God. Worshiping God is continual, there is no special time or place for our worship. If we only honor God on Sunday morning, we are essentially wasting our time. Remember, we are His ambassadors (see 2 Corinthians 5:20), we represent Jesus to a dying and condemned world. We are not called to be like them, we are to reflect Jesus in everything we say and do, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. A sacrifice would not be a true sacrifice if it had no value or was easy to obtain. Following Jesus is not easy as our still-corrupt bodies want to follow the lusts and the ways of the world. It is that struggle that defines us as Christians. If we remain in Jesus, our struggle in life will be minimal. However, if we wander away from Him, our struggle will become great and possibly intensive. But always remember, when that happens, repent and Jesus will forgive you!
Spiritual Gifts are to be Used
12:3 For by the grace given to me I say to everyone among you not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think with sober judgment, each according to the measure of faith that God has assigned.
After establishing the two foundational principles and essential concepts that our walk with Jesus are built on, that we are to always obey Jesus (Paul recognized that obeying Jesus is not always easy in this world, that is why he referred to as a ‘sacrifice’) and that through our obedience we worship God; and secondly, we are to be transformed, changed from our old self into a new person, shaped by God (our old ways of thinking and living are gone, purged). Paul then reasserts his authority (see Romans 1:1-6), calling the attention of every believer to not think of themselves more highly than they ought to think (this is the second time Paul warns us to not be arrogant, see Romans 11:20). But to think with sober judgment (‘sōphroneō’, referring to curbing one’s passions, from being misled). The Greek word translated here in this verse twice as “to think,” is ‘phroneō’, it involves one’s will, affection and conscience, which can include an opinion, or something thought through (processed according to one’s worldview, see below for definition of a worldview). Paul says we are to think and lead our lives according to the measure of faith that God has assigned to us (see also 1 Corinthians 7:17), as we are all very different.
12:4 For as in one body we have many members, and the members do not all have the same function, 5 so we, though many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another. 6 Having gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, let us use them: if prophecy, in proportion to our faith; 7 if service, in our serving; the one who teaches, in his teaching; 8 the one who exhorts, in his exhortation; the one who contributes, in generosity; the one who leads, with zeal; the one who does acts of mercy, with cheerfulness.
Paul then uses the familiar analogy that we are like the human body. Each body has many parts and members with each having several different functions, but only one whole body (see also 1 Corinthians 12:12-26). As Christians, we are also many, but only one body in Christ (see also Ephesians 4:13; John 17:11). We are individually members, but also belong to each other (see also 1 Corinthians 6:15; 12:27; Ephesians 4:25). We all have gifts that have been given to us from God, to do as He has called us to do (not our assignment, but His). However, these gifts differ according to the grace given to us (see 1 Corinthians 12:4; 1 Peter 4:7-11), something we should fully utilize! If one is given the gift of prophecy, then they should prophesy (speak for God) in proportion of to their faith (see also Acts 13:1; 1 Corinthians 12:10; 2 Timothy 2:15). If one is called to serve others or minister, they should be willing to serve to their fullest. For the one gifted to teach, they should be found teaching. The one who is gifted to exhort (Greek word ‘parakaleō’, to call to one’s side, to admonish, teach, explain and to encourage), should be encouraging and comforting. For the one who is gifted to contribute (Greek word ‘metadidomi, referring to one sharing or giving), they should give generously. For the one called to be a leader, let them lead with zeal and enthusiasm (see also 1 Corinthians 12:28; 1 Timothy 5:17). The one who does acts of mercy (Greek word ‘eleaō’, to show compassion, to extend a helping hand), should do so with cheerfulness (Greek word ‘hilarotes’, from the root word meaning to be happy or glad, see also 2 Corinthians 9:7).
These verses are one of three major sections found in the New Testament regarding Spiritual Gifts (the other two sections are 1 Corinthians 12:1-14:25 and Ephesians 4:1-16). These are God’s gifts to believers for the benefit of His kingdom. These should not be confused with the “Fruit of the Spirit” (external evidence of the Holy Spirit inside us) or the gift of salvation, the adoption as children of God. As Christians, we all have one or more gift to be used to help others find Jesus (see also Matthew 25:14-30; 1 Peter 4:10).
Worldview
The term ‘worldview’ is easily defined but it is not easily explained. It is defined by most dictionaries as either a philosophy of life or a particular conception of the world, while they both may be true, neither one is very useful. Everyone has a worldview and after you recognize what shapes our worldviews, you will see why every person’s worldview is actually unique and different.
This may sound like a far-fetched question, however in order to understand the construct of a worldview we need to ask, “What is reality?” Now before you walk away shaking your head, think about the process for a moment that you go through in your head to determine if something is real. There is no need to dig out those old textbooks or wish you paid more attention in your philosophy class, if you are like most people you can quickly realize that, even though most people don’t spend a lot of time analyzing their surroundings, the process is actually somewhat complex. For example, our understanding of reality is strongly based on a combination of perception (what we see, hear, smell, touch, etc.), facts determined from past experiences (such as touching something that is hot), and learned behavior (inferences, deductions, assumptions, presumptions, etc.) all combined within a strong sense of what we believe is possible (things we were taught as well as discovered on our own).
If you were right now distracted by a small bright point of light that quickly flashed from one side of you to the opposite side, would you think it was a small creature like a fairy or just a reflection off something like a passing car outdoors? Probably most of you would consider it to be a flash of light. Why? To begin with there are no such things as fairies, right? What about that small dark spot that is moving next to your foot? Is it a bug or a creeping ink spot? Our worldview is largely responsible for how we process information, not only to answer questions like these but also how we navigate in life (our decisions, values, morals, priorities, goals, etc.)
Everything from where we were born, where we lived, where we went to school, who our teachers were, who we had as friends, who were our parents and their parents, our neighbors, wealth, demographics, race, religious upbringing, level of education, exposure to politics and a lot more all have some influence in shaping how you view the world, your worldview. So, you can see that you truly do have a unique view. The fact that you are unique is both a good thing and a bad thing. Good in the sense of having a unique perspective, something that you might be willing to share with others helping them see things differently. But unfortunately, since you do have a different viewpoint, it may mean more arguments or create contentious moments.
As Christians we often hear the terms like, “Biblical Worldview” or a “Christian Worldview.” They generally refer to doing more than believing in Jesus for your salvation. A Biblical worldview entails believing that the entire Bible is true and as such we are to apply the truth of the Bible in every aspect of our lives.
Paul explains that once a believer has dedicated their lives to God and have been transformed (verses 1-2), they are given not on their own, God will guide and provide for them the resources each one needs. He first outlined God’s gifts of grace (verses 3-8) and how they should be used and now he focuses on what he describes in his epistle to the church at Galatia as, “fruits of the Spirit” (see Galatians 5:22-23). Even though not identified as such here in Romans, these are nonetheless all common attributes that each Christian should demonstrate. If the Holy Spirit truly resides in a person, these ‘fruits’ will be evident in a person’s life.
12:9 Let love be genuine. Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good.
Like many of the lists found in the New Testament describing the traits of believers, Paul begins with love. The Greek language has several words that are often translated into English as ‘love’, the word Paul is using here is ‘agapē’. This word is considered the highest form of love, as it represents a never-ending and unconditional love. As a noun, the word has been used four times prior in this epistle, each time referring to God’s love for us (see Romans 5:5, 8; 8:35, 39). Here he now tells us, his readers, to genuinely love. To naturally love without end and to love unconditionally. Wait, is this for real? Who loves unconditionally and without end? Well, this is certainly not a human trait. Exactly! Genuine agapē love is only available from God. Something each Christian has the capacity to do (since the Holy Spirit does reside within), but they still need to desire and choose to do so.
The second ‘attribute’ may not at first sound like an attribute at all, but it is correctly placed being immediately after agapē, as Christians need to abhor those things that are evil (Greek ‘ponēós’, wicked, malicious, corrupt, etc.) A believer should not just ‘think’ or identify something that is evil for themselves, they should actively stand against and be seen or heard opposing evil. There are many ways to define evil, perhaps the easiest way for a Christian to define evil is to call anything (or anyone) that makes you take your eyes off Jesus, is indeed evil.
While rejecting that which is evil, a Christian should firmly hang on to what is good. The Greek word ‘kolláō’ refers to being adhered to something, in modern terms perhaps even “glued to.” To what? Anything that is good, excellent, of good character, useful, etc. Essentially those things that are helpful but not evil. For a Christian that would mainly be beneficial in their walk with Jesus.
12:10 Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor.
Paul calls all believers to love each other with brotherly affection (Greek ‘philadelphia’, noun for one who loves his brother). Do Christians always get along or show brotherly affection to each other? No, in fact this was one of the problems at the church in Corinth, as Paul wrote, “I appeal to you, brothers, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree, and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be united in the same mind and the same judgment.” (1 Corinthians 1:10, see also 1 Corinthians 1:11-17; 3:1-23; 11:18; Philippians 1:27; 2:2) While disagreements may occur, these debates should never become hostile or overly heated, especially in sight or earshot of any unbelievers. Jesus, knowing that Satan would use disharmony as one of his weapons against Christians and the church, prayed that believers would remain unified, so that the world would know that He was indeed sent by God the Father (see John 17:20-26).
In that affection Paul adds that they should honor and respect each other. Here he recommends to “outdo one another in showing honor,” while this may sound like a competition to ‘outdo’ someone else, this phrase simply refers to the need to always respect fellow believers, or perhaps this could be worded, “delight in honoring each other.” (NLT)
12:11 Do not be slothful in zeal, be fervent in spirit, serve the Lord.
To describe how Christians are to serve God, Paul chooses two colorful and memorable phrases, one with a distinct contrast and the other with a strong encouragement. Being slothful (Greek word ‘oknērós’, referring to one being slow, delayed or lazy) is certainly a contrasting concept to the word zeal (Greek ‘spoudē’, to speed, hasten, be diligent, earnest). One way to translate would be “don’t be lazy in your diligence.” Paul then instructs that one should be fervent (Greek ‘zéō’, referring to action like that of water being boiled, the word is derived from the sound of boiling water, meaning to seethe, found only twice in Scripture, both times referring to being fervent, see Acts 18:25) in spirit (Greek ‘pneúma’, breath, breathing, air in motion, spirit of life, or a reference to a person’s mood). While the term ‘spirit’ is not connected to God in this verse, in context one could easily see the concept of a Christian being fervent (displaying a passionate intensity) for the Holy Spirit being implied here.
When it comes to serving God, many sadly choose comfort or routine over being diligent or having any level of zeal. Jesus warned against being lukewarm in our service to Him, “So, because you are lukewarm, and neither hot nor cold, I will spit you out of my mouth.” (Revelation 3:16). Service to God should never be considered an option to a Christian, as we are each owned by God (bought by the blood of Jesus, see Romans 6:18; Acts 20:28; 1 Peter 1:18-19). Paul is reminding us that our service to Him should be a priority in our life and done to our best of abilities. If the ‘fire’ in our life of service to God seems to be dimming or just smoldering for Jesus, Paul is saying we need to put another ‘log’ on the fire, to seek Him and keep the Spiritual fire alive.
12:12 Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.
Paul next focuses on three personal behaviors that Christians should share. The first is rejoicing in hope (Greek ‘elpís’), as defined in the previous usage in this epistle, this would refer to the expectation of being saved (see Romans 4:18; 5:2, 4, 5; 8:20, 24). A believer is to be glad that they are indeed saved through Jesus, not burdened or worried. They are to be patient in tribulation (Greek ‘thlípsis’, to crush, press, compress, squeeze, bring affliction, see previous use in Romans 2:9; 5:3; 8:35). The true nature of a person can only be revealed when under less-than-ideal circumstances, such as during the time of tribulation. Having patience during trying times can be a strong witness to others regarding faith in God. The third personal behavior is to be constant in prayer (see also Luke 18:1; Ephesians 6:18; Colossians 4:2-4; 1 Thessalonians 5:17). An excellent habit to have since while praying, it is difficult to impossible to sin!
12:13 Contribute to the needs of the saints and seek to show hospitality.
Paul then asks believers to contribute to the needs of fellow believers. The word translated as ‘contribute’ is the Greek word ‘koinōnéō’, meaning to participate in or be a partaker of (derived from the word ‘koinōnía’, meaning fellowship, to share with). Christians are to be active participants with other Christians and provide assistance when needed. This is not necessarily a reference to money, but as a call to be involved and work with other believers. Paul also encourages them to demonstrate hospitality and kindness to all, not just fellow believers.
12:14 Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse them.
In this next section, Paul lists a number of potential scenarios involving the interaction with other people groups. These could possibly be described as “appropriate behavior for ambassadors of Christ” (see 2 Corinthians 5:20). Paul begins with what sounds like Jesus’ instructions, “But I say to you who hear, Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who abuse you.” (Luke 6:27-28) The action or extent of the blessing (Greek ‘eulogéō’, to speak well of, to bless, same word used twice in this verse) is not stated, but Paul does state that a believer should not curse those that are persecuting them.
12:15 Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep.
Not necessarily connected to the previous verse, Paul asks Christians to be sensitive to the emotional condition of others. When one is rejoicing, then join them in their celebration. If someone is weeping, cry with them, be truly sympathetic.
12:16 Live in harmony with one another. Do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly. Never be wise in your own sight.
When living among others, one should live as harmoniously, the Greek phrase “auto phronountes,” essentially means to think or be mindful of others. Paul points out that process begins by not being arrogant and to not think too highly of oneself, one who is willing to interact and listen to others, especially those that are lowly (destitute, social outcasts, etc.)
12:17 Repay no one evil for evil, but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all. 18 If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all. 19 Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, “Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.” 20 To the contrary, “if your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink; for by so doing you will heap burning coals on his head.” 21 Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.
The desire to seek revenge may be one of the more prominent traits found in humanity. Paul instructs believers to not repay evil with evil, instead they are to always do what is honorable (Greek ‘kalós’, good, to do the right thing) for everyone. Whenever possible, assuming they can influence the situation, Paul says Christians should live peaceably with each other. To amplify the need to withdraw from acting on revenge, Paul tells believers to never avenge themselves as God will repay for them, quoting Deuteronomy 32:35 (see also Psalm 94:1; 1 Thessalonians 4:6; Hebrews 10:30). Instead of vengeance, a Christian is to feed their enemy if they are hungry and give them something to drink if they are thirsty. By quoting Proverbs 25:21-22, Paul connects the unorthodox approach of a “reverse vengeance,” to that of Christian outreach. With vengeance and revenge so entrenched in human behavior, what better way to show the world the love of God to the world than to do the unexpected and be kind to those that may oppose us? Remember Jesus taught, “But I say to you who hear, Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who abuse you. To one who strikes you on the cheek, offer the other also, and from one who takes away your cloak do not withhold your tunic either. Give to everyone who begs from you, and from one who takes away your goods do not demand them back. And as you wish that others would do to you, do so to them.” (Luke 6:27-31)
The concept of “heaping burning coals on his head,” is based on an ancient Egyptian custom to publicly demonstrate contrition to represent shame. While shame is not the goal of a Christian, the love of God allows us to suppress the evil in our hearts and instead of repaying evil with evil, demonstrate to a lost world that the unconditional love of God exists! Paul emphasizes this by concluding that believers are not to be overcome by evil, but that they are to overcome evil with good.
The Choice is Yours
When we began to review this section (Romans 12:9-21), we compared this list of appropriate behaviors for Christians to the “Fruits of the Spirit,” as presented in Galatians 5:22-23. These fruits are not unlike the fruit of a fruit tree, once planted they need watering and nutrients from the soil to produce healthy fruit. Paul is making it clear that these fruits (appropriate Christian behaviors) do not automatically appear in our lives (otherwise why discuss the need to do these things here?) As Paul pointed out in Romans 12:2, Christians are not to conform to the ways of the world, but they still can choose how to live. In order to produce healthy fruit, a believer must continue to be nurtured by the Holy Spirit and fed by the Word of God, so that can mature and continue to grow closer to Jesus.
There is a tool that is often employed by leaders of businesses and other organizations called a 360 assessment. It is often used to assess one’s current ability to lead, as well as provide guidance in showing any blind weaknesses and hidden strengths. It is called a ‘360’ as it uses participants from all around the person being assessed. In business they would typically include peers, bosses, customers and the people that report directly to the person and their assessments are compared to person’s own self-assessment. For growing Christians, it may be an interesting exercise to use this list of Paul’s appropriate behaviors in this section to not only assess themselves but also seek input from others. However, before beginning, always seek God’s guidance and a humble heart, as it is often the case that one’s perspective of themselves is very different than others. The idea is to grow closer to Jesus, not create enemies from friends!