REJECTING GOD AND GLORIFYING SIN

DATE: Monday, June 23rd, 2025

BIBLE READING: Romans 12:1-2 (NIV)

Verse1: Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.

Verse2: Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.

KEY VERSE:

And be not conformed to this world, but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is good, and acceptable, and perfect will of God. Romans 12:2

MEDITATION:

The Clash of Kingdoms: A Choice of Allegiance in Every Heart

To a mind that has been genuinely regenerated by the power of the Holy Spirit, the very notion of someone deliberately rejecting God and glorifying sin may seem utterly inconceivable, perhaps even abhorrent. When one has tasted the goodness of the Lord, experienced the liberating power of His forgiveness, and encountered the transformative presence of His Spirit, turning back to the darkness of sin appears to be a bewildering act of self-sabotage. Sin, to the believer, is an abomination—a vile offense against a Holy God, something that must be vehemently resisted and not toyed with.

Yet, tragically, this is the stark reality for countless individuals and, at times, a subtle temptation even for believers. For an individual still “sold out to Satan,” as the saying goes, nothing within the realm of sinful behavior seems awkward or out of place. Whatever illicit or immoral act they engage in appears perfectly normal to them; it’s simply “a way of life,” a reflection of their chosen reality. This divergence in perspective highlights the fundamental spiritual battle being waged for the human heart—a battle between the seductive pull of the world and the transforming call of God. This profound choice of allegiance, whether conscious or unconscious, shapes every aspect of one’s existence, dictating values, behaviors, and ultimately, eternal destiny. Our foundational text, Romans 12:1-2, lays bare this spiritual imperative, urging us to choose transformation over conformity, and true worship over the glorification of sin.

Understanding the Regenerated Mind vs. the Unregenerated Mind

The core of our discussion lies in understanding the stark contrast between two states of the human mind: the unregenerated and the regenerated. This distinction is crucial for comprehending why some embrace sin while others abhor it.

The Unregenerated Mind: A State of Spiritual Blindness

An unregenerated mind is one that has not been renewed or quickened by the Holy Spirit. It remains in its natural, fallen state, spiritually darkened and often resistant to divine truth. This condition is not merely a lack of knowledge but a fundamental spiritual blindness that prevents a person from discerning the things of God (1 Corinthians 2:14). It is a mind that, through the influence of sin and the prince of this world, has become calloused, twisted, and deceived (Ephesians 4:18; 2 Corinthians 4:4).

The characteristics of an unregenerated mind are evident in its perspective on sin. To such a mind, moral relativism reigns supreme: truth is subjective, and right and wrong are matters of personal opinion or cultural consensus. Sin is rationalized, excused, or even celebrated. The prophet Isaiah lamented this state, saying, “Woe to those who call evil good and good evil, who put darkness for light and light for darkness, who put bitter for sweet and sweet for bitter!” (Isaiah 5:20). This spiritual inversion leads to behaviors that, to the believer, are clearly destructive and offensive to God, but to the unregenerated, look normal and are seen simply as a way of life.

Consider contemporary examples: promiscuity is rebranded as “sexual liberation”; dishonesty in business is called “savvy” or “smart”; materialism is glorified as “success”; pride is celebrated as “self-esteem”; and rebellion against authority is hailed as “individualism” or “breaking free.” Media, entertainment, and pervasive cultural narratives constantly normalize these patterns, making it incredibly difficult for an unregenerated mind to perceive their inherent sinfulness or their long-term destructive consequences. The Bible warns us about the deceptive nature of sin, stating that it can harden our hearts (Hebrews 3:13). This hardening prevents genuine repentance and traps individuals in a cycle of self-justification.

The ultimate consequence of an unregenerated mind is a tragic separation from God—spiritual death. Unable to perceive God’s goodness or desire His ways, such a mind remains antagonistic to Him, unable to please Him or fulfill His purposes (Romans 8:7-8).

The Regenerated Mind: A New Discernment and Hatred for Sin

In stark contrast, the regenerated mind is one that has undergone a profound transformation by the Holy Spirit. This is what the Bible refers to as being “born again” (John 3:3) or becoming a “new creation” (2 Corinthians 5:17). It is a work of grace, initiated by God, where our spirits are made alive to Him (Titus 3:5).

The primary characteristic of a regenerated mind is a new spiritual discernment and, crucially, a hatred for sin. When the Spirit of God takes residence within, He illuminates truth, exposes deception, and convicts of righteousness, sin, and judgment (John 16:8). What once seemed normal now appears as an abomination because it offends God, defiles His temple (our bodies), and creates a barrier in fellowship with Him. The desire for righteousness and holiness replaces the craving for sinful indulgence. While a regenerated mind is not instantly perfect, it is fundamentally reoriented. The direction of the heart has shifted from self-serving gratification to God-honoring obedience.

This doesn’t mean the regenerated mind is immune to temptation or conflict. Even the Apostle Paul confessed the internal battle: “For I do not do the good I want to do, but the evil I do not want to do—this I keep on doing” (Romans 7:19). However, the crucial difference is the response to sin: for the believer, sin is no longer a “way of life” but an unwelcome intruder, battled with remorse, confession, and a renewed commitment to walk in God’s ways. The pursuit of holiness becomes the earnest endeavor, driven by love for God and gratitude for His mercy.

The Call to Holy Living: Bodies as Living Sacrifices

The foundational instruction for all who claim to follow Christ is found in Romans 12:1-2. It serves as a comprehensive guide for living a life that truly honors God and rejects sin.

Romans 12:1-2 – The Foundation of Christian Conduct

Paul begins his exhortation with a profound “Therefore,” linking his call to action directly to the preceding eleven chapters of Romans, which lay out the glorious truth of God’s mercy, grace, and redemption for humanity through Christ. It is “in view of God’s mercy”—His unfathomable love that saved us while we were still sinners—that we are urged to respond.

The core of this response is to “offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.” This concept draws from the Old Testament practice of animal sacrifices, but with a radical difference. Unlike the dead animals offered on altars, we are to offer our bodies as a living sacrifice. This implies a continuous, dynamic, and conscious dedication of our entire being—our thoughts, emotions, desires, wills, physical actions, and talents—to God’s service. It is not a one-time event but a daily, moment-by-moment commitment. To be “holy” means to be set apart from sin and consecrated for God’s exclusive use, while “pleasing to God” signifies that such an offering brings Him true delight and honor. This act of presenting ourselves wholly to God is described as our “true and proper worship,” emphasizing that worship extends far beyond songs and rituals; it encompasses a lifestyle of obedience and devotion.

The Body as Temple of God: A Sacred Trust

The sanctity of our bodies is further emphasized in 1 Corinthians 6:19-20: “Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies.” This powerful truth elevates the significance of our physical beings. Our bodies are not mere vehicles for earthly pleasure or personal desires; they are consecrated dwelling places for God’s Spirit. To defile this temple through sin is not only an act of self-harm but a direct offense against the indwelling Holy Spirit, causing Him grief and hindering our fellowship with God.

When a person deliberately chooses to live a “free life that does not respect boundaries,” they are, in essence, rejecting God’s ownership and authority over their lives. This “free life,” as the world defines it, is often a license for unrestrained indulgence, a pursuit of fleeting pleasures without accountability. It’s an embrace of self-will over divine will. Whether through substance abuse, sexual immorality, gluttony, self-harm, or the misuse of body parts for ungodly purposes, such actions defile the temple of God and demonstrate a conscious disregard for His commands. True freedom, as Christ taught, is not freedom to sin, but freedom from the bondage of sin to serve God in righteousness (Galatians 5:13; 1 Peter 2:16). God’s boundaries are not arbitrary restrictions but loving protections, designed for our flourishing and His glory. To step outside them is to declare, “My will matters more than Yours,” which is a clear act of rejecting God Himself.

The World’s Pattern vs. God’s Transformation

Paul’s second admonition in Romans 12:2 is equally crucial: “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” This verse reveals the two primary forces vying for control over our lives and how we can navigate them.

“Do Not Conform to the Pattern of This World“

The Greek word for “conform” here, schema, refers to an outward fashion, a superficial resemblance, or a temporary mold. It speaks of the prevailing norms, values, philosophies, trends, and desires of a fallen world system. This “world” (kosmos in Greek, referring to the organized system of human society alienated from God) constantly exerts pressure to fit in, to adopt its way of thinking, acting, and valuing. It’s a subtle but pervasive influence, shaping us through:

Materialism: The relentless pursuit of possessions and wealth as the ultimate source of happiness and security.

Pride and Self-Exaltation: The emphasis on self-glory, self-promotion, and looking out for number one.

Consumerism: The belief that identity and fulfillment come through what one acquires and consumes.

Sexual Immorality: The normalization of promiscuity, lust, and perversion, redefining morality based on personal preference.

Violence and Retribution: The reliance on force and revenge rather than forgiveness and reconciliation.

Self-centeredness: A focus on personal gratification above all else, often at the expense of others.

Seeking Validation: The constant need for approval from peers, social media, or cultural trends.

Rationalizing Sin: Creating elaborate justifications for ungodly choices, often through popular philosophies or movements.

These worldly patterns are broadcast through various channels: media, entertainment, educational systems, social circles, and even political ideologies. They are designed to draw us away from God’s truth and His ways, making sin appear appealing, acceptable, or even necessary for success and happiness.

“But Be Transformed by the Renewing of Your Mind“

In contrast to mere outward conformity, God calls us to a profound internal metamorphosis. The Greek word for “transformed,” metamorphoo, is the same word used for Jesus’ transfiguration (Matthew 17:2) and describes a complete change from within, a fundamental shift in nature, like a caterpillar transforming into a butterfly. This transformation is not superficial; it is deep, affecting our very essence.

The locus of this transformation is critical: it occurs in the mind. Our minds are the battlegrounds where beliefs, values, attitudes, and decisions are formed. If the mind remains unrenewed, it will continue to gravitate towards worldly patterns. The renewing of the mind is an ongoing process, not a one-time event, and it happens primarily through:

• God’s Word: The Scriptures are living and active, piercing to the division of soul and spirit (Hebrews 4:12). Regular study and meditation on God’s Word cleanse, instruct, and reconfigure our thought patterns (Psalm 119:11, John 17:17).
• The Holy Spirit: The Spirit of God illuminates truth, convicts of sin, and empowers us to think according to God’s will (Romans 8:5-6). He helps us to “take every thought captive to obey Christ” (2 Corinthians 10:5).
• Prayer and Meditation: Consistent communication with God helps align our minds with His. Meditation on His attributes and promises shifts our focus from worldly anxieties to divine peace.
• Accountability and Fellowship: Being in healthy Christian community provides support, challenge, and correction, helping us to identify and correct ungodly thought patterns.
• Active Choice: We must actively choose to replace worldly thoughts with godly ones (Philippians 4:8).

The purpose of this transformation is profoundly practical: “Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.” A renewed mind gains spiritual clarity and discernment, enabling us to recognize and embrace God’s will. This leads not to a begrudging obedience, but to a joyful alignment with His plans, experiencing His will as truly good, pleasing, and perfect.

Living a Cheerful but Sober Life: A Call to Distinction

The call for children of God to live a “cheerful but sober life” provides a vital balance to our existence in a fallen world. It delineates a distinct pathway that avoids both joyless legalism and reckless indulgence.

The Balance: Cheerfulness and Sobriety

Cheerful: A believer’s life is not meant to be somber, gloomy, or devoid of joy. On the contrary, joy is a fruit of the Holy Spirit (Galatians 5:22). Nehemiah 8:10 declares, “The joy of the LORD is your strength.” Even in trials, believers are called to “count it all joy” (James 1:2). This cheerfulness is not based on fleeting circumstances or worldly pleasures, but on an internal, unshakable peace derived from our relationship with God. It’s a profound spiritual gladness that persists despite outward difficulties.

Sober: To be sober-minded means to be serious, self-controlled, discerning, and vigilant. It implies a clear, unclouded judgment, free from the intoxicating effects of worldly desires or spiritual deception (1 Peter 5:8, Titus 2:12). It speaks of a life lived with intentionality, purpose, and spiritual discernment, not given to excess, recklessness, or frivolous pursuits that dishonor God. It is a state of spiritual alertness, recognizing the spiritual battle and the need for wisdom.

The balance of cheerfulness and sobriety creates a Christian lifestyle that is attractive and authentic—filled with the joy of the Lord, yet marked by self-control and spiritual wisdom. This is profoundly different from the world’s “riotous life.”

Rejecting the “Riotous Life”

The phrase “those in the world who can afford to live a riotous life must not be heard of in the camp of children of God” is a stark warning. A “riotous life” is characterized by excessive pleasure, debauchery, unrestrained indulgence, and a blatant lack of self-control. It’s a life lived solely for immediate gratification, often leading to spiritual and physical ruin. The world promotes such a lifestyle as fulfilling, but it ultimately leaves one empty and bound by sin.

The distinctiveness of the Christian life is paramount. We are called to be “a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession” (1 Peter 2:9). This means we are set apart, peculiar, unique. Our lives are meant to reflect God’s holiness and righteousness, standing in stark contrast to the world’s patterns. When believers imitate the world’s riotous ways, we lose our “saltiness” and our “light” dims (Matthew 5:13-16). We cease to be a compelling witness for Christ, and instead, blend into the very darkness we are called to illuminate.

Ultimately, our motivation for holy living stems from a deep love for God and profound gratitude for His mercy. It involves daily choices, moment by moment, to honor Him in all we do. It’s a continuous pursuit, a lifelong journey of striving to please our Heavenly Father at all times, not out of obligation, but out of a heart transformed by His grace.

Self-Reflection and Commitment: Which Way Do I Lean?

Now, with these truths laid bare, it’s essential to turn the mirror inward. The profound question posed by the meditation is not rhetorical: “Which way am I glorifying sin in my life?” This requires honest, humble self-examination in the light of God’s Word and in the presence of the Holy Spirit.

Take a moment to consider:

• Are there areas where I am still conforming to the world’s pattern, even subtly?
• Am I rationalizing certain sins, or calling evil good?
• Am I treating my body as a personal possession for my own desires, rather than a holy temple of God?
• Do I pursue worldly “freedom” that disregards God’s loving boundaries?
• Is my life truly characterized by a cheerful sobriety, or am I prone to riotous indulgence or joyless legalism?
• Are there hidden sins, secret habits, or unconfessed attitudes that are hindering God’s glory from manifesting through me?

Honest answers to these questions are the first steps towards repentance and renewed commitment. God’s grace is always available for those who genuinely seek it.

Prayer and Call to Action

The journey of rejecting sin and glorifying God is a lifelong process, empowered by the Holy Spirit. It requires daily surrender, a commitment to renewing our minds, and a conscious choice to live distinctively for Christ. As we strive to present our bodies as living sacrifices, our lives become powerful testimonies, drawing others to the saving knowledge of Jesus.

PRAYER:

Father Lord, may my life daily glorify You so I can draw those around me to Jesus. Transform my mind, conform me to Your will, and empower me to live a holy, cheerful, and sober life that brings You honor in every way. In Jesus’ mighty name, Amen.

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR:

Nehemiah 4-6; Acts 2:14-47