In Romans 12, Paul gives a list of directives to believers about living in Christ. Being saved by Jesus means becoming more and more like Jesus, and so these directives are actually marks of what a Christian looks like. After giving the overarching description of the believer as someone marked by love, Paul takes up a second category: selflessness. The Christian is called to be like Jesus, who served others and put them before Himself. A key component of love is self-sacrifice, and the believer is to follow Jesus in that virtue. Selflessness shows itself in a variety of ways, and Paul emphasizes three of them: putting others first, not focusing on self, and serving the Lord. As we follow Paul’s instructions, we will see our lives shine forth more with the light of Jesus. This is where we see “The Marks of the Christian 2: Selflessness” (Romans 12:10-11).

I. Putting Others First
A. Show Honor to Others
B. Lead the Way in Selflessness

II. Not Focused on Self
A. Do Not Grow Weary
B. Fervent in the Spirit

III. Directed Toward the Lord
A. Knowing Whose You Are
B. Serving the Master

Questions for consideration: (1) What does it look like to show honor to others? How can you do that with others around you? (2) Why do you think Paul reminds you not to be slothful or to grow weary? What might cause you could be discouraged like that? (3) Why is it important for the believer to remember that he ultimately serves the Lord?