I have been studying Romans 12 for the past week or so, because I was asked to teach Sunday school this week. As I have studied and listened to other messages about Romans, and one thing has become evident, Sin must be overcome, and we must be transformed into the likeness of Christ! Chapter 12, verses 1-2 speak about how we are to be transformed from our old selves and become a new creation in Christ. The greek word "MetamorphoO" is used for this description of the word "transformed". Usually in the english language, we use this word "transformed" to relate to a physical change. But Paul uses it in context of a "total transformation" much like a caterpillar being transformed into a butterfly. Everything that we are, is changed, and we start to become more like Christ.
Paul brings this point of view, you are either conformed into the likeness of the world and all that it is, or you become like Christ, it cannot be both ways. When we offer our bodies as "living sacrifices" as verse 1 says, there are also two sides to this, general and specific.
Generally we offer our bodies to God and say, "Ok God here I am, use me, here is my body, lead me.
And specifically, when God says, I want you to be a living sacrifice to the lost and tell them about me and share the good news with them, and I want you to be a living sacrifice and serve the body of Christ.
When we can begin to understand that we are to be transformed (MetamorphoO), into the image of Christ, and not be conformed any longer by this world, then we will begin to live our lives as God intended. Set apart, redeemed, and justified.
"Therefore, I urge you brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, Holy and pleasing to God. This is your spiritual act of worship. Do 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." Romans 12:1-2
