Consecrated for Divine Purpose Romans 12:1-2
Introduction:
Today, we embark on a journey of understanding and renewal as we delve into the concept of consecration—a season of setting ourselves apart for God's divine purpose. The call to consecration is not merely a religious act but a transformational process where we yield ourselves completely to God. Let us explore this theme through Scripture, exegesis, and the insights of renowned Christian authors and preachers.
Point 1: Understanding Consecration
Scripture: Romans 12:1-2 (New Living Translation): "Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. 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."
In Romans 12:1-2, Paul implores believers to present their entire being—body, soul, and mind—as a living sacrifice to God. This act of consecration involves a complete surrender to God's will, leading to transformation by the renewing of our minds. Consecration is not conforming to the world's standards but embracing God's transformative work within us.
As Charles Spurgeon once said, "Consecration is not the giving of ourselves to God; it is the acknowledgment that God has taken us, and that we have surrendered ourselves to Him."
1 Peter 2:9 (New Living Translation): "But you are not like that, for you are a chosen people. You are royal priests, a holy nation, God's very own possession. As a result, you can show others the goodness of God, for he called you out of the darkness into his wonderful light."
In 1 Peter 2:9, Peter addresses believers as a chosen and special people, set apart by God for His purposes. This verse highlights the identity and calling of every believer—to be royal priests and representatives of God's goodness and light in the world. As consecrated individuals, we are called to reflect God's character and share His love with others.
2 Timothy 2:21 (New Living Translation): "If you keep yourself pure, you will be a special utensil for honorable use. Your life will be clean, and you will be ready for the Master to use you for every good work."
Paul's instruction in 2 Timothy 2:21 underscores the importance of personal holiness and consecration. A consecrated life involves maintaining purity and readiness for God's use. By living in obedience and purity, believers become vessels fit for the Master's use, prepared for His service and good works.
Point 2: The Cost of Consecration
Luke 14:27 (New Living Translation): "And if you do not carry your own cross and follow me, you cannot be my disciple."
Jesus emphasizes the cost of discipleship in Luke 14:27. Consecration requires denying ourselves, taking up our cross, and following Christ wholeheartedly. It involves sacrifice, commitment, and obedience to Christ's call. The journey of consecration is a continual surrender to God's leading, regardless of personal cost.
A.W. Tozer once said, "The cross is the lightning rod of grace that short-circuits God's wrath to Christ so that only the light of His love remains for believers."
Mark 8:34-35 (New Living Translation): "Then, calling the crowd to join his disciples, he said, 'If any of you wants to be my follower, you must give up your own way, take up your cross, and follow me. If you try to hang on to your life, you will lose it. But if you give up your life for my sake and for the sake of the Good News, you will save it.'"
In Mark 8:34-35, Jesus articulates the cost of discipleship and consecration. Following Christ requires a complete surrender of self and a willingness to embrace the cross—symbolizing self-denial, sacrifice, and obedience. True consecration involves relinquishing our own desires and embracing Christ's call to follow Him wholeheartedly.
Galatians 2:20 (New Living Translation): "My old self has been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me. So I live in this earthly body by trusting in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me."
In Galatians 2:20, Paul describes the transformative nature of consecration. Through identification with Christ's death and resurrection, believers experience a profound change—the old self dies, and Christ's life becomes their own. Consecration involves a life of faith, where Christ's indwelling presence empowers and guides every aspect of our existence.
Point 3: Living a Consecrated Life
Scripture: 1 Thessalonians 4:3-4 (New Living Translation): "God's will is for you to be holy, so stay away from all sexual sin. Then each of you will control his own body and live in holiness and honor."
Paul exhorts believers in 1 Thessalonians 4:3-4 to live in holiness and honor, aligning with God's will. A consecrated life is marked by purity, integrity, and obedience to God's commands. It involves striving for holiness and walking in the fear of the Lord, empowered by His Spirit.
As Andrew Murray said, "Consecration is not just the giving of ourselves to God; it is the giving back of Himself to us."
Hebrews 12:14 (New Living Translation): "Work at living in peace with everyone, and work at living a holy life, for those who are not holy will not see the Lord."
Hebrews 12:14 emphasizes the pursuit of holiness as a vital aspect of consecration. Consecrated living involves actively seeking peace with others and striving for personal holiness. Holiness is essential for encountering God and experiencing His presence in our lives.
1 Peter 1:15-16 (New Living Translation): "But now you must be holy in everything you do, just as God who chose you is holy. For the Scriptures say, 'You must be holy because I am holy.'"
Peter reiterates the call to holiness in 1 Peter 1:15-16, quoting from Leviticus 11:44-45. Consecration entails aligning our lives with God's holiness and purity. As God's chosen ones, we are called to reflect His character and live in obedience to His commands.
Application and Call to Action:
These passages collectively convey the significance of consecration—a life set apart for God's glory and purpose. As believers, we are called to embrace our identity as royal priests, maintain purity and readiness for God's use, deny ourselves and follow Christ wholeheartedly, experience the transformative power of Christ's indwelling life, pursue holiness, and reflect God's character in all aspects of our lives. May we live consecrated lives that honour God and bear witness to His goodness and grace.
The call to consecration is a divine invitation to a deeper walk with God. Today, let us examine our hearts and commit ourselves afresh to God's purpose. May we embrace the transformative power of consecration, yielding ourselves completely to God's will. Let us seek His presence daily, allowing Him to sanctify us and use us for His glory.
Closing:
May this season of consecration lead us to experience the fullness of God's blessings and the joy of fulfilling His divine purpose in our lives. Amen.
