Living Sacrifices: How Selfless Love Helps the Church
"In view of God's mercy, are you ready to present yourself as a living sacrifice?
In this message from Romans 12, Pastor Rohan Bell challenges Christians to: • Put Jesus at the center, especially during the busy holiday season • Love those who are different from us, even when it's difficult • Serve enthusiastically, using our gifts to build up the body of Christ • Overcome evil with good by extending grace to others.
Focusing on the importance of presenting ourselves as living sacrifices to God, particularly in the context of relating to others who may be different from us, Rohan emphasizes that in view of God's mercy, we should offer ourselves willingly to God, prioritizing our relationship with Him and serving others, even those we may disagree with.
His message encourages believers to overcome differences, extend love, and live in harmony within the church community, reflecting Christ's love in all aspects of life.
Key Points:
-Present yourself as a living sacrifice to God in response to His mercy
-Embrace diversity within the church and learn from those different from you
-Use your God-given gifts to serve the body of Christ
-Prioritize putting God first in all areas of life (time, talent, treasure)
-Overcome evil with good by extending love and kindness to others, even "enemies"
--Live at peace with others as much as possible, extending olive branches of reconciliation
-Avoid conforming to the world's patterns and instead be transformed by renewing your mind
'Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.' - Romans 12:2
0:00 - 10:00 Chapter 1: The Context of Romans 12
Introduction to the context of Romans 12 and the importance of unity in diversity.
10:00 - 20:00 Chapter 2: Presenting Ourselves as Living Sacrifices
Discussion on what it means to be a living sacrifice and how to live differently from the world.
20:00 - 30:00 Chapter 3: Using Our Gifts for the Body of Christ
Exploration of how to use our God-given gifts to serve the church and others.
30:00 - 40:00 Chapter 4: Behaving Like a Christian
Practical advice on how to live out Christian principles in our daily lives and relationships.
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