Romans 12:1-13
Paul addresses the saints at Rome concerning the matter of meaningful membership. While it is true, these verses are often used to challenge believers to a life of surrender, it is equally important to see his focus on the fellowship of the saints.
THE BIBLICAL BASIS FOR CHURCH MEMBERSHIP vv. 1-2
“Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God which is your spiritual worship. 2Do not conform any longer 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.”
1. The dedication of our lives. v.1
2. The transformation of our minds. v.2
3. The fellowship of the saints. v.2
THE BENEFITS OF BELONGING TO A CHURCH FAMILY: vv. 3-9
“For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the measure of faith God has given you. 4Just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function. 5so in Christ we who are many form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. 6We have different gifts, according to the grace given us. If a man’s gift is prophesying, let him use it in proportion to his faith. 7If it is serving, let him serve; if it is teaching, let him teach;8if it is encouraging, let him encourage; if it is contributing to the needs of others, let him give generously; if it is leadership, let him govern diligently; if it is showing mercy, let him do it cheerfully.
9″Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good.”
1. It helps me rightly relate to God. Matthew 22:37-38
2. It encourages me to face life’s problems. I Thessalonians 5:10-11
3. It helps me to become a mature Christian. Hebrews 6:1
4. It helps me find my place of service . Ephesians 4:12
5. It helps me fulfill my mission in life. Acts 20:24
