What does it mean to “offer your bodies as a living sacrifice…” (vs. 1)? How is this sacrifice similar to, but also different from, Old Testament sacrifices?
Paul invites us not to “conform to the pattern of this world” (vs. 2). What “patterns” of this world are we tempted to conform to, particularly those that work their way into our lives more subtly (maybe even without us knowing)?
What does it mean to be transformed by the renewing of one’s mind? Talk about a time in your life when God changed your mind (your thinking, your worldview, your will) about something. What is God inviting you to learn, re-learn, or un-learn in this season?
In verse 5 Paul says that “each member [of the body] belongs to all the others.” What do you think it means that we “belong” to each other? How have you seen this lived out? In what ways have we failed to live this out?
What are the “gifts” that God has given you? What are the obstacles that keep you from using your gifts to serve the LORD at Lake? What is one step you can take this week to Serve God’s Mission?
A simple practice: The Prayer of Examen. This is an old spiritual discipline that helps us develop a deeper level of spiritual sensitivity by recognizing and receiving the work of the Holy Spirit. Through the Prayer of Examen we simply review our day, inviting God to show us more—more of Himself, more of our own internal world, more of His calling on our lives. This week, we are invited to a Prayer of Examen based off Romans 12:1-8. Simply meditate in silence on these questions and then reflect as a group:
Where have I seen God’s mercy today?
When did I conform to the pattern of this world today?
When did I offer my body as a living sacrifice today?
How is God inviting me to serve Him, as a member of His body, in this season?
Jeff Mattesich