“For by the grace given to me, I tell everyone among you not to think of himself more highly than he should think. Instead, think soberly, as God has distributed a measure of faith to each one.” vs3

God has distributed a measure of faith to each of us. We are not great in faith, in most cases, and we don’t have perfect faith, like our Lord Jesus [John 3:34]. Instead, we have a gift, and we are to be humble. Do not be proud because you know God.

First, Paul urges us by the mercies of God [vs1]. “Therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, I urge you to present your bodies as a living sacrifice.” We have obtained mercy, and we did not save ourselves, but all was a gift through Jesus Christ. He chose us, saved us by His blood, and all understanding and giftedness come from Him. Based on this, we are to love others as a living sacrifice: We live for His glory now.

This is not too much or unreasonable to ask. “This is your reasonable service [vs1].” In fact, if MERCY is the motive, then nothing right and holy is unreasonable. He cannot command us to do anything wrong or beyond our indebtedness!

Secondly, God’s will is perfect for us [vs2]. “Do not be conformed to this age, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may discern what is the good, pleasing, and perfect will of God.” It is right for us to live godly. While the world pursues its lusts, we pursue Christ. While the world lives for self, we glorify God and are rewarded with joy and peace, clean consciences and uprightness.

Do not be conformed to this world but totally transformed! Don’t hold the old life but fully embrace the new.

Thirdly, we should not be proud [vs3]. “For by the grace given to me, I tell everyone among you not to think of himself more highly than he should think.” This is the danger of salvation improperly held - we think because we know more, then we are better, pride creeps in, and we LOSE the joy of Christ. It is called “cage-stage Calvinism,” by some, but we need more zeal and uncompromising love. We don’t need a peace treaty with evil, but we need the humility to say, “But I’ve obtained mercy.” We must be bold for truth and gentle with people. “The Lord’s slave must not quarrel, but must be gentle to everyone, able to teach, and patient [2 Tim 2:24].”

We can’t think ourselves BETTER than others: we must serve them with what we have [2 Cor 4:5]. We have been blessed to bless, not to be lords, praised, or magnified - but to teach them in true sincerity. Many would do better to remember we are saved by grace as we talk about grace, and to treat others with compassion.

I’m not advocating compromise but humility. This comes from looking at ourselves honestly and realizing grace gave us all that we have, and it is to be used to serve others. Let us do this, and we will be happy.