Your reasonable service

This chapter commences the section of the book that is intensely practical. It takes the truth taught in chapters 1 to 8 as the basis for a life of sacrifice and devotion. One of its keywords is service, vv. 1, 7 (ministry), and verse 11.

It is important to see chapter 12 against the background of chapter 8. Think of what God has wrought in Christ. Think of the conditions from which we have been rescued. Such a work demands our complete separation from the world and conformity to Christ, v. 2. See the extent of the sacrifice: ‘present your bodies’. God does not entertain half-measures! God does not want only a part: He wants all! The world should no longer shape our thinking and govern our actions.

In verses 3 to 13, Paul shows how the exhortation of the first two verses is to be worked out in the Christian life. There are three key thoughts in the section: humility, diversity, and unity. ‘God has dealt to every man’, v. 3. This truth emphasizes the sovereign activity of God. He has given the gifts, dispelling any thought of pride in the servant. The power that God gives is to be seen in the exercise of the gifts given. Seven gifts are mentioned, ranging from the public and prominent gifts to the private and personal. It is emphasized again that all are ‘according to the grace that is given to us’, v. 6. Note too that the exercise of these gifts is described by the present participle - this should be habitual!

For any gift to be a benefit to the saints it must be exercised by Christ-like people. The marks of such a person are listed in these verses: (1) love, practically demonstrated, v. 9 RV; (2) separation from evil; (3) ‘sticking fast’ to that which is good, v. 9; (4) full of tenderness, v. 10; (5) unflagging zeal, v. 11; (6) heavenly vision and steadfast prayer, v. 12; (7) fellowship with saints in genuine need, v. 13; and (8) hospitality, v. 13.

Finally, vv. 14 to 21, the apostle considers how we relate to the world. He acknowledges difficulties that will confront us. He says, ‘If it be possible’, v. 18. It is not always possible to be at peace with all men. However, as H. C. G. MOULE puts it, ‘Let the peace, if broken, be broken on the other side’!