the christian life includes sacrifice and service (romans 12:1)
Introduction:
1. In Romans 12:1, the apostle Paul used 2 key words that we are concentrating on today: "sacrifice" and "service." 2. Veterans, that we will be honoring Tuesday, certainly understand the importance of sacrifice and service. 3. Sacrifice and service also play important roles in the lives of Christians [soldiers in God's army]. 4. In our lesson we are examining: a. 3 verses that relate to sacrifice b. 3 verses that relate to service c. a passage that teaches us how to be armed for sacrifice and service.
Discussion:
I. LET US EXAMINE 3 VERSES THAT RELATE TO SACRIFICE
A. Romans 12:1 1. This verse makes an appeal for Christians to present our bodies [our entire being -- mind, body, and soul] a living sacrifice. 2. This appeal is based on God's mercies. 3. The type of sacrifice is one that is holy and pleasing to God. B. Hebrews 13:15 1. This verse makes an appeal for Christians to offer the sacrifice of praise to God [we are to "continually" express our gratitude to God]. 2. Keep in mind that this letter was written to encourage Christians to remain faithful [thanksgiving promotes faithfulness]. 3. A parallel passage is 1 Thessalonians 5:18. C. 1 Peter 2:5 1. This verse teaches Christians to offer up spiritual sacrifices that please God. 2. We are a holy priesthood and part of God's spiritual house.
II. LET US EXAMINE 3 VERSES THAT RELATE TO SERVICE
A. Luke 16:13 1. A Christian's service must not be divided. 2. A servant cannot serve 2 masters [2 masters cannot be loved equally]. 3. The Lord requires loyalty from His servants. B. Luke 22:26 1. A Christian's service is a measure of his greatness. 2. The Lord made this statement because of the situation in vs.24. 3. A serious warning is given in Galatians 5:15. C. Galatians 5:13 1. A Christian's service is to be motivated by "love." 2. The necessity of love is also emphasized in 1 Corinthians 13:3. D. After looking at 3 verses that relate to sacrifice and 3 verses that relate to service, . . .
III. LET US EXAMINE A PASSAGE THAT TEACHES US HOW TO BE ARMED FOR SACRIFICE AND SERVICE [Ephesians 6:10-18]
A. (vs.10-13) To be prepared for sacrifice and service, we must "put on the whole armor of God." B. (vs.14-17) The various items of armor are listed. C. (vs.18) We are to always pray [also emphasized in 1 Thessalonians 5:17].
Conclusion:
1. Christian soldiers look forward to a great victory (1 Corinthians 15:57). 2. Looking forward to this victory should motivate us to serve the Lord faithfully (1 Corinthians 15:58).
