Romans 6:12-13 is about the call for believers to resist the temptations of sin by offering themselves to God as instruments of righteousness.
12 Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, to make you obey its passions.
13 Do not present your members to sin as instruments for unrighteousness, but present yourselves to God as those who have been brought from death to life, and your members to God as instruments for righteousness.
Setting the Scene for Romans 6:12-13
In Romans chapter 6, the apostle Paul is writing to the believers in Rome, explaining the concept of dying to sin and living for God. The scene is set in a small house church in Rome, where a group of believers has gathered for a bible study session. The room is dimly lit by oil lamps, casting a warm glow on the faces of those present. The air is filled with the scent of incense burning in the corner, creating a sense of peace and reverence.
Among those gathered are Lydia, a wealthy merchant who opened her home for the meeting, Priscilla and Aquila, a couple who are skilled tentmakers and faithful followers of Christ, and Timothy, a young disciple who is eager to learn from Paul’s teachings. The group sits on cushions arranged in a circle on the floor, leaning in attentively as Paul reads from his letter and expounds on the importance of living a life that is dedicated to God.
As Paul reaches Romans 6:12-13, his voice grows more impassioned, urging the believers to not let sin reign in their mortal bodies but to offer themselves to God as instruments of righteousness. The flickering light of the lamps casts shadows on the walls, emphasizing the gravity of Paul’s words as he challenges the believers to live in obedience to God’s will. The room is filled with a sense of conviction and determination as the group resolves to walk in the newness of life that Christ offers.
What is Romans 6:12-13 about?
The apostle Paul urges believers in this verse to not allow sin to have control over their lives. He is emphasizing the importance of making a conscious decision to resist the temptations of sin and to actively choose to live a life that is aligned with God’s will. Believers commit to living in a way that reflects God’s love, grace, and truth in every aspect of their lives by offering themselves as instruments of righteousness to God. This verse calls for a radical shift in mindset and behavior, where believers actively choose to pursue righteousness and holiness in all that they do.
Imagine sin as a tyrant trying to take over and rule your body, causing chaos and destruction in its wake. Paul is urging us to resist this tyrant and to instead surrender ourselves to God, allowing Him to guide and empower us to live righteously. We become vessels through which God’s love and goodness can flow into the world by offering ourselves as instruments of righteousness, impacting not only our own lives but also those around us. This verse challenges us to examine our hearts and actions, to make intentional choices that honor God and further His kingdom on earth. Let’s strive to live each day with a renewed commitment to righteousness, knowing that God is with us every step of the way.
Understanding what Romans 6:12-13 really means
In the book of Romans, penned by the Apostle Paul to the Christians in Rome, we find a profound exploration of the implications of the gospel and the transformative impact it should have on believers’ lives. Romans 6 specifically delves into the believer’s union with Christ in His death and resurrection, emphasizing the call to embrace a new life liberated from the grip of sin.
Paul’s exhortation in Romans 6:12 to “Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body” is a poignant reminder for believers to resist the control of sin over their actions and decisions. Instead of allowing sin to dictate their lives, believers are called to submit to the lordship of Christ, recognizing His authority over every aspect of their being.
The phrase “To make you obey its passions” underscores the insidious nature of sin, with its desires and passions that can lead individuals astray from God’s will. Believers are urged to combat these sinful inclinations and yield to the guidance of the Holy Spirit, who empowers them to walk in righteousness.
Paul’s instruction to “Do not present your members to sin as instruments for unrighteousness” emphasizes the need for believers to dedicate every facet of their lives to righteousness and service to God. This holistic commitment to living a life aligned with God’s purposes involves using one’s body and abilities as instruments for righteousness, as highlighted in the subsequent phrase.
By presenting themselves to God as those who have been brought from death to life, believers acknowledge their new identity in Christ and the transformative work of salvation in their lives. This call to live a life of holiness and devotion to God serves as a testament to the profound change that has taken place within them through their faith.
Related passages such as Galatians 5:24, Colossians 3:5, and 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 further reinforce the importance of crucifying sinful desires, rejecting unrighteous behaviors, and honoring God with our bodies. These passages provide additional context and support for the principles outlined in Romans 6:12-13, emphasizing the consistent biblical call to live a life that glorifies God.
In today’s world, characterized by pervasive temptations and moral compromises, the message of Romans 6:12-13 remains as relevant as ever. Believers are encouraged to stand firm in their faith, resisting the pressures to conform to sinful patterns and instead, embodying their new identity in Christ through righteous living.
Consider a scenario of a young professional navigating a morally challenging work environment. This individual, inspired by Romans 6:12-13, chooses to uphold their integrity and honor God in their decisions, despite facing adversity. Their unwavering commitment not only strengthens their faith but also serves as a compelling testimony to those around them, illustrating the transformative power of living out the gospel.
In conclusion, Romans 6:12-13 serves as a compelling call to believers to live a life liberated from the dominion of sin, presenting themselves to God as instruments of righteousness. By aligning every aspect of their lives with God’s will, believers reflect the profound impact of the gospel and bring honor to God through their actions and choices.
How can we yield our bodies as instruments of righteousness?
To yield our bodies as instruments of righteousness means to consciously choose to offer ourselves, our physical bodies, to God for His purposes and glory. It involves making a deliberate decision to live in a way that aligns with God’s will and character. We are called to actively engage in actions and behaviors that reflect righteousness and holiness, allowing God to use us as vessels for His kingdom work. This requires a surrender of our will and desires to God, allowing Him to guide and direct our thoughts, words, and actions. We acknowledge that our bodies are not our own, but belong to God by yielding them as instruments of righteousness. It is a recognition that we are called to honor God with our physical selves, not only in what we do, but also in how we treat and take care of our bodies. This includes living a life of integrity, purity, and obedience to God’s Word. It is a daily decision to walk in the Spirit, seeking to glorify God in all that we do, whether in our relationships, work, or other areas of our lives. Yielding our bodies as instruments of righteousness ultimately reflects our love and devotion to God. It is a response to His grace and mercy towards us, recognizing that we have been set free from sin and are now called to live a life that honors Him. We become vessels of His love, grace, and truth in a world that desperately needs to see the light of Christ shining through us as we submit ourselves to God and allow Him to work in and through us.
Application
In the busy workplace of life, let righteousness be your CEO and sin just a mere employee. It’s time to lead by example and show your family, friends, and colleagues the power of choosing the right path. Your actions speak volumes, so make every decision count towards a life that reflects God’s love and grace. Will you make the choice to uplift your spirit and those around you by choosing righteousness today?
Reverend Ogunlade is a seasoned Church Minister with over three decades of experience in guiding and nurturing congregations. With profound wisdom and a serene approach, Reverend Ogunlade has carried out various pastoral duties, including delivering uplifting sermons, conducting religious ceremonies, and offering sage counsel to individuals seeking spiritual guidance. Their commitment to fostering harmony and righteousness within their community is exemplified through their compassionate nature, making them a beloved and trusted figure among the congregation.