Verse of the Day (October 14, 2019)

Verse of the Day (October 14, 2019) – Following numerous and important doctrinal explorations of God’s plan of redemption in previous chapters, Paul appeals to his readers “by the mercies of God” (mercies that make believers “holy and acceptable to God”) to let all he has said about the gospel do its glorious work. The ethical vision of these later chapters of Romans flows from the grand vision of divine grace in the first 11 chapters. Giving glory to God (11:36) is worship, and that is what the gospel enables (12:1) as people present their whole selves and lives completely to God. Part of this is a break with “this world” in its negative aspects, allowing renewal and discernment (v. 2), resulting in life that is “good and acceptable and perfect” (that is, “complete,” fulfilling God’s purposes). The aim of the gospel is not merely doctrinal truth but lives that connect with God, delight in his will, and further his interests in glad communion with him. (Gospel Transformation Study Bible) #BMSeminary