Living Sacrificially Romans’ Call to Selfless Living

Foundation Principles

The epistle to the Romans is a profound document that addresses the heart of Christian doctrine and practice. In Romans 12:1-2, Paul exhorts believers to present their bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God, as an act of spiritual worship. This foundational principle underlines the transformational nature of the Christian life, moving beyond mere external adherence to religious norms, towards an intimate, conscious commitment to God.

According to Paul, being a living sacrifice is an ongoing, dynamic expression of faith that involves the renewal of the mind. As Romans 12:2 teaches, "Do not be conformed to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will." This transformation is not a one-time event but a continual process of aligning one's thoughts and actions with God's truth.

The idea of sacrifice harkens back to the Old Testament practices where animals were offered to God. However, in the New Testament, under the new covenant established by Christ's ultimate sacrifice, our call is to become living sacrifices. This fundamental difference underscores a life lived actively for God's purposes, where every action and decision is an offering to Him.

This introduction to selfless living is a call to relinquish self-centered ambitions and embrace a life characterized by service, gratitude, and obedience to God's will. It sets the stage for a deeper exploration into the practical implications of sacrificial living, as presented in the subsequent steps. Our journey begins with an understanding of this profound call.

Step One: Understanding

Understanding the principle of living sacrificially requires a grasp of the theological and practical shifts that Paul introduces. To live as a "living sacrifice" demands a departure from worldly values and an adoption of a Christ-centered worldview. This involves recognizing that our lives are not our own, as Paul states in 1 Corinthians 6:19-20, "Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies."

Living sacrificially is rooted in the reality of Jesus' own sacrifice. As believers, we are called to emulate Christ's humility and selflessness. Philippians 2:5-8 powerfully illustrates this, emphasizing that Jesus, "being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant."

Understanding this concept also involves recognizing the cultural and historical context of sacrifice. In ancient times, sacrifices were a way to atone for sin and express gratitude to God. Jesus' sacrifice on the cross fulfilled the ultimate atonement, liberating us from the bondage of sin and inviting us into a new life empowered by the Holy Spirit.

Therefore, living sacrificially today means offering our daily lives—our time, resources, and talents—as a spiritual act of worship. It is a paradigm shift that moves us from self-focus to God-focus. Understanding this is the first step in truly embodying the life of a living sacrifice, which is a profound act of worship and obedience.

Step Two: Applying

Applying the principle of living sacrificially involves tangible actions that reflect our commitment to God. This application begins with personal introspection and an honest assessment of our priorities. Do our daily lives reflect the transformation and renewal of our minds as Paul describes?

One practical application is in how we manage our time. In a world that values productivity and efficiency, it can be challenging to prioritize time for prayer, study of the Word, and serving others. Yet, these practices are vital expressions of a life devoted to God. Scheduling regular times for devotion and service can help us align our lives more closely with biblical principles.

Another area of application is our finances. Jesus spoke often about the dangers of materialism and the love of money. Living sacrificially calls us to generosity, trusting that God will provide for our needs as we support others. This may involve regular giving to the church, supporting missions, or providing for those in need within our community.

Relationships also offer opportunities to live sacrificially. This might mean forgiving someone who has wronged us, being patient with difficult individuals, or extending kindness without expecting anything in return. These actions demonstrate Christ's love and are a powerful witness to the world around us.

Ultimately, applying a sacrificial life involves daily choices that honor God and exhibit love for