In Romans 12 Paul pleads with his audience of Jews and Gentiles to offer themselves to God as holy, living sacrifices. Up to this point in the epistle much has been said about faith, about God's merciful salvation, and the new resurrection life found in Christ. However, for those who desire to live in the freedom of Christ, there is the necessary giving up of self that must follow.

This is where Romans 12 digs into the implications of dying with Christ. Those who die with Christ are offering themselves to God, much like Jesus offered himself to the Father.

An offering of self is far more costly than we may have ever imagined. The rest of Romans 12 calls believers to use their gifts, to love one another deeply and sacrificially, and to treat enemies with kindness and respect. This is impossible for those committed to their own preservation and reputation.

Only those committed to offering themselves to God can live in such a way. To the extent that we resist living as prescribed in Romans 12, we are resisting the call to offer ourselves to God as living sacrifices.

Ed Cyzewski is the author of Coffeehouse Theology: Reflecting on God in Everyday Life. He blogs on theology at www.inamirrordimly.com and on writing at www.edcyz.com.