Dedicated Service
1 Therefore I urge you,brothers and sisters, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies [dedicating all of yourselves, set apart] as a living sacrifice, holy and well-pleasing to God,which isyour rational (logical, intelligent) act of worship.
2 And do not be conformed to this world [any longer with its superficial values and customs], but betransformedandprogressively changed [as you mature spiritually] by the renewing of your mind [focusing on godly values and ethical attitudes], so that you may prove [for yourselves] what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect [in His plan and purpose for you].
3 For by the grace [of God] given to me I say to everyone of you not to think more highly of himself [and of his importance and ability] than he ought to think; but to think so as to have sound judgment, as God has apportioned to each a degree of faith [and a purpose designed for service].
4 For just as in one [physical] body we have many parts, and these parts do not all have the same functionorspecial use,
5 so we, who are many, are [nevertheless just] one body in Christ, and individually [we are] parts one of another [mutually dependent on each other].
6 Since we have gifts that differ according to the grace given to us,each of us is to use them accordingly:if [someone has the gift of] prophecy, [let him speak a new message from God to His people] in proportion to the faithpossessed;
7 if service, in the act of serving; or he who teaches, in the act of teaching;
8 or he who encourages, in the act of encouragement; he who gives, with generosity; he who leads,with diligence; he who shows mercy [in caring for others], with cheerfulness.
9 Love is to be sincereandactive [the real thing–without guile and hypocrisy]. Hate what is evil [detest all ungodliness, do not tolerate wickedness]; hold on tightly to what is good.
10 Be devoted to one another with [authentic] brotherly affection [as members of one family], give preference to one another in honor;
11 never lagging behind in diligence; aglow in the Spirit,enthusiasticallyserving the Lord;
12 constantlyrejoicing in hope [because of our confidence in Christ], steadfastandpatient in distress, devoted to prayer [continually seeking wisdom, guidance, and strength],
13 contributing to the needs of God’s people, pursuing [the practice of] hospitality.
14 Bless those who persecute you [who cause you harm or hardship]; bless and do not curse [them].
15 Rejoice with those who rejoice [sharing others’ joy], and weep with those who weep [sharing others’ grief].
16 Live in harmony with one another; do not be haughty [conceited, self-important, exclusive], but associate with humble people [those with a realistic self-view]. Do not overestimate yourself.
17 Never repay anyone evil for evil. Take thought for what is rightandgraciousandproper in the sight of everyone.
18 If possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.
19 Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave the way open for God’s wrath [and His judicial righteousness]; for it is written [in Scripture], “Vengeance isMine, Iwill repay,” says the Lord.
20 But if your enemy is hungry,feed him;if he is thirsty,give him a drink;for by doing this you will heapburning coals on his head.”
21 Do not be overcomeandconquered by evil, but overcome evil with good.