The book of Romans is full of important doctrines and principles for living the Christian life. Martin Luther, the great Reformer, found his life transformed by the studying of this book – and that changed the world forever, reviving the truth of the Gospel. It is no surprise that Romans had such a profound effect.
In Romans 12:1-2 we find the hinge upon which the book rests. These verses bring together two concepts that we find woven in and out of Paul’s epistles. The first concept is that of “right thinking.” Note that Paul’s point is that we must be “transformed by the renewal of our minds.” One thing precedes the other. If we desire a transformed life, we must first change our thinking. As we dwell in and on God’s Word, and as we discern what is “good and acceptable and perfect,” our minds will be renewed, and we will begin to think more like Christ. Christlikeness is our goal.
Paul indicates our “right thinking” will hopefully lead to “right doing.” In other words, our very lives will be transformed. We will live out the faith we claim to believe. Our transformed life, indeed, is an offering of worship – of spiritual worship! We are not only to worship God with our minds, but with our bodies as well. This may be a new thought, but Paul clearly states that our worship is a balance of both internal (the mind) and external (the body) conformity to the life of Christ. It is holistic. Christlikeness is our goal in both our thinking and our outward life.
Ultimately, we grow and serve as whole beings. The internal mindset (right thinking) must be constantly renewed by God’s Word and His Spirit. As this takes place in our minds and hearts, we will willingly and joyfully serve God within the external (right doing). Right thinking will lead to right doing if we keep them in perspective.
Take a moment to pray for your own needs for a renewal of your mind. Throughout this course you will learn many new things regarding God’s truth as written down by Paul. How will you allow that to affect you? Are you ready to change your thinking to correspond with God’s truth? Are you willing to allow your renewed mind to change the way you live? Ask for God’s help and commit your ways to Him.
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