Reasonable
I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. Rom 12:1
- Beseech. This is the strongest plea Paul could make. He used this word in matters of life and death. Obviously he feels that this is one of the most important things anyone could do. It is the only thing that will make him the servant Jesus wants him to be.
- Therefore. This word refers to what was said before Look at Chap.11 Verse 18 Speaking of the Jews who did not believe in Christ: 18 do not boast against the branches. But if you do boast, remember that you do not support the root, but the root supports you. 19 You will say then, “Branches were broken off that I might be grafted in.” 20 Well said. Because of unbelief they were broken off, and you stand by faith. Do not be haughty, but fear. 21 For if God did not spare the natural branches, He may not spare you either. 22 Therefore consider the goodness and severity of God: on those who fell, severity; but toward you, goodness, if you continue in His goodness. Otherwise you also will be cut off.
- Mercies. Consider that God provided for our salvation even though we were unworthy sinners, and that it was the free gift of His Son on the cross that won our hearts.
- Bodies. 18 knowing that you were not redeemed with corruptible things, like silver or gold, from your aimless conduct received by tradition from your fathers, 19 but with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot. 1Pet. 1. We are not our own but are bought with a price.
- Living. Christ saved us from death and gave us eternal life to use for his glory.
- Sacrifice? Can we really call it a sacrifice when it puts us in line for such favor from God, all the riches and resources of heaven are ours!
- Holy. Who wouldn’t want to be holy if they thought it possible?
- Acceptable to God. This is something we cannot do without!
It is so reasonable!
