READ
Romans 12:1-8
CONSIDER
This week’s sermon will be the last of the “Identity” series. We will explore our identity as part of the body of Christ through Romans 12. Paul explained God’s plan of salvation for all people in the first 11 chapters. By the mercies of God, we are justified by faith through God’s only begotten Son, Jesus Christ. We were destined for death but were brought back to life by the redeeming work of Christ on the cross. Romans 12 marks the beginning of the second part of the epistle, focusing on how we should live as Christ-followers in response to God’s mercies.
I encourage you to read the entire chapter, viewing it as a guide to living for Christ within church communities. God does not call us to offer ourselves partly, but wholly, to Him. The church community is the ideal place for us to grow deeper in our understanding of God and to be transformed into His likeness.
Pastor Julian Wong
PRAY
Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for saving us by sending Your beloved Son, Jesus Christ. Lord Jesus, thank You for Your redemptive work on the cross. Thank You for setting a good example for us by denying Your own will to follow God’s. Thank You, God, for giving us the church—a community where we can grow together as one body. Thank You for providing a space where we can encourage one another to grow more like Christ and glorify Your name. Thank You for everything You have done for us and in us. Dwell in us and strengthen us to live for Your glory. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.
DIVING DEEPER
In the last part of the sermon, it mentioned the 6 areas of our community needs to learn together:
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- to serve interdependently
- to love sincerely
- to face difficult times joyfully
- to give generously
- to bless our enemies mercifully, and
- to walk with people closely.
Discuss with your community group and how we can offer our whole life in these areas.