Romans 12

The section we know as Chapter 12 of Romans begins with one of Paul's most quoted and approved lines: "I appeal to you therefore, brothers and sisters, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your minds, so that you may discern what is the will of God--what is good and acceptable and perfect" (verses 1 and 2, NRSV).

"Therefore" (in Greek just one syllable: oun) indicates that, given all the previous matters discussed in the essay, Paul is going to lay out how the Christian should live. That one little word means a great deal, but it is normally passed over or not assigned much importance. However it is crucial: given that God's purpose is redemption and that God offers salvation (God's love and protection) to all people on the same basis, here is how you should live. So then, how should we live? To the ancient Gentiles: stop giving your bodies over to licentious living. Instead, live an ethical life loving God and your fellow humans. That is, seek the good of others over your own desires and your own good. This message also applies to societies in post-modern times. To the ancient Jews: God does not want your sacrifices or your righteousness, he wants you to live in relationship with him and in obedience, relying on God's righteousness. Living for God and for the good of other people is the sacrifice God demands. This message addresses the self-satisfied people in churches that believe that God's nature requires retribution, but following the rules laid out by the community pleases God. Paul's message, based on that of Jesus, could not have been more counter cultural, then or now. Human wisdom only leads to trouble.

Paul goes on to point out that we must not see ourselves as alone and separate from others. The church is a community, metaphorically the body of Christ. Each of us has a part to play and none of us is the all-in-all, and none is unimportant, either. Christ, none of us, is the head.

Verses 9 to the end of the chapter explain how love (agape, not romantic love) is to be practiced. Never fall prey to schadenfreude, accompany with your emotions those who are in difficulties and those who are happy, persevere when you suffer, meet the needs of fellow Christians and give hospitality to strangers. The latter was a sacred duty in ancient times. As for your enemies, let God deal with them. Meanwhile, feed them if they are hungry, do not treat them as they treat you, give them water if they are thirsty.

All this is clear and easy to understand. It is extremely difficult to practice, because it goes completely against our human nature and what our culture says we should do.