1. Do not let sin reign (11-12)

Our union with Christ is not a passive relationship. These verses contain a series of commands to be obeyed. This suggests spiritual struggle, because obedience doesn't come naturally. Paul calls the life of faith 'the good fight' (2Ti 4:7). We have mortal bodies; the roots of sin and death are in us. Union with Christ does not mean the battle has ended; it is just beginning. We must consciously affirm the fact that we are dead to sin--especially when our sinful desires push us to deny it. We are alive to God.

2. Instruments of righteousness (13-14)

When we were slaves of sin, we thought we were freely using the parts of our body for ourselves, but actually, we were being used as instruments of wickedness. Now we belong to Jesus. So we must offer our hearts and heads, hands and feet, every part to God for his use. There is a war going on, and there is no neutral territory. Christ set us free so that God might use us. Only when we positively offer ourselves to God for his use can we be free.

Application: Lord, use me as an instrument of your righteousness and peace.
One Word: Offer yourselves to God