Romans 12:1-8
After a great deal of theology in the first 11 chapters of Romans, Paul now turns to some more practical matters.
Paul lists gifts of the Spirit on a number of occasions in his letters. Here he gives seven: Prophecy, Service (Ministry), Teaching, Exhortation, Generosity, Leadership, Mercy (vv. 6b-8). We all are gifted of God. So, of these seven, where are you? Don’t think too hard – you probably have more than one! And even as I am suggesting that you probably have more than one, Paul is telling his Roman listeners …not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think… (v. 3b) Frankly, I counted FIVE where I thought I was at least partially gifted. Am I thinking too highly of myself??
Do not be conformed to this world… (v. 2a) For three straight days, Archbishop Beach has posted a podcast online, “Wake up, America!” It truly is worth a listen. But you need to listen today; it might be gone tomorrow. He is especially strong in his comments when he says time and again, “Culture tells us…”. What a ridiculous set of items culture tells us. So really, listen to it – today!!
Slava Bohu!