Romans 12

In previous chapters, Paul has “leveled the playing field” between Jew and Gentile. Now he calls this diverse community to a life of sacrificial worship (1) – not mere singing of praise, but a commitment to one another, for “we belong to each other” (5). Paul calls us to value and participate in the diverse body of Christ.

Mere verbal affirmation of the gospel is not enough. Our experience of the grace of Jesus draws us into real community. Christians are not simply attenders of weekend services; we must be “devoted to one another” no matter what our differences (16). We humbly serve one another with energy and “zeal” because that is how we serve our Lord Jesus (11).