Daily Bible Plan
- FCC Communications Team
- 2 days ago
- 3 min read
16. June 2025
Devotion by Pastor Joseph Antwi
Theme: From Upper Room to Every Room
Fortified City Church & Love City Church, Basel
Journeying with Paul — From Galatians to Romans
Devotion by Pastor Joseph Antwi
Theme: Living Sacrifice — A Call to Holy Worship
Introduction:
As we move deeper into the book of Romans, we encounter one of the most powerful shifts in Paul’s letter — from doctrine to application, from theology to transformation. Romans 12 begins with an urgent plea: that in light of God’s mercy, we offer ourselves entirely to Him.
Paul, writing under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, takes us beyond belief and into lifestyle. What does it mean to not only believe in Jesus but to live in a way that daily honors Him? This chapter challenges us to worship not merely with our lips, but with our lives.
Overview of Romans 12:1–8
Living Sacrifice – Worship in Action
Paul calls believers to present their bodies as living sacrifices—holy and pleasing to God. This is our spiritual act of worship, and it demands that we live in a way that reflects God’s holiness.
Key Verse: “Therefore, I urge you… to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.” — Romans 12:1 (NIV)
Main Theme: Worship is not just an act — it is a lifestyle of holiness and surrender.
Application: True worship begins with giving ourselves entirely to God. Holiness is not optional; it is the standard God calls us to.
Key Scripture
Romans 12:1–2 (NIV):“Do not conform 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.”
Devotional Reflection
What Does It Mean to Be a Living Sacrifice?
To offer ourselves as a living sacrifice means that everything about us—our actions, our speech, even our appearance—must reflect the holiness of God. As Paul says in 1 Peter 1:15, “Be holy in all you do.” Holiness is not legalism; it is love in action.
Jesus warned us in Mark 7:20–23 that what comes out of a person defiles them. Our lives should be marked by purity, not compromise. Whether it's our dress, relationships, or private decisions, we are called to live clean because the Holy Spirit dwells within us.
Your body is His temple.“Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit...? You are not your own; you were bought at a price.” — 1 Corinthians 6:19–20
Renewing the Mind: The Path to Transformation
Paul doesn’t call us to holiness through law but through transformation. This happens when our minds are renewed by the Word and the Spirit. We are to reject the world’s standards and walk in the Spirit (Galatians 5:16), putting to death the old nature (Colossians 3:5).
This is not about control, but about freedom—freedom from sin, shame, and spiritual compromise. Purity brings peace and protection; sin opens doors to demonic oppression.
Unity and Honor in the Body
Romans 12:3–8 reminds us that we are one body with many parts, each with different gifts. Whether it's prophecy, service, giving, or leadership—use your gift with humility and zeal. We are called to honor one another, not compete.
“We have different gifts… If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your faith…” — Romans 12:6
Let’s be faithful stewards of what God has given us, encouraging one another and building up the church.
Reflection Questions
Am I offering my body daily as a living sacrifice to God?
In what areas am I still conforming to the world’s standards instead of God’s Word?
How am I using the gifts God has given me to serve the body of Christ?
What practical changes can I make this week to live in holiness and spiritual integrity?
Closing Encouragement
Church, God’s mercy demands our response—not out of fear, but out of love. Let us be holy in body, renewed in mind, and unified in mission. Your life is your worship. Offer it fully.
“So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him…” — Colossians 2:6
With you on the journey,
Pastor Joseph Antwi
For prayer & counseling, send a message to WhatsApp: +41 79 663 63 24
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