NGH BIBLE STUDY – ROMANS – OUTLINE #26

Outline #26: The Presentation of the Believer – Rom 12:1-8

Our passage marks the transition from Paul’s teaching of salvation to its practical application in the believer’s life. Having explained God’s mercies throughout chapters 1-11, Paul now urges believers to present themselves to God as living sacrifices. This presentation involves a transformed life, renewed thinking, and a desire to discern and do God’s will. It also requires a humble attitude toward ourselves and other believers, recognizing that God has given to each differing gifts according to His grace. These gifts are not given for distinction, but for faithful service to others. Thus, this passage introduces the emphasis of our new section of the epistle: The Practice of the Believer’s Service – living out the mercies of God through consecration, humility, love, and ministry.

Outline of Romans 12:1-8

Rom 12:1-2 – The appeal for presentation

Rom 12:3-5 – The attitude in presentation

Rom 12:6-8 – The activity of presentation

Themes to think about

● The outworking of practical sanctification

● The totality of personal surrender

● The central role of the mind in spiritual growth

● The purpose & practice of spiritual gifts

Questions for discussion

1. What is the significance of the connection between “the mercies of God” and Paul’s appeal for presentation in Rom 12:1?

2. What is the difference between being “conformed to this world” and being “transformed by the renewing of your mind” (Rom 12:2)?

3. How is Biblical humility different from having an unnecessarily low view of oneself?

4. What does Paul mean by “gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us”?

5. How does this passage guard against both pride in one’s gift and discouragement over not having another person’s gift?