I speak in human terms because of the weakness of your flesh, for as you presented your members as servants to uncleanness and to wickedness upon wickedness, even so now present your members as servants to righteousness for sanctification. Romans 6:19 WEB
In the preceding verses, Paul writes that believers in Christ were once slaves to sin. He then asserts that those who trust in Christ begin to obey from their hearts the teachings of Christ. Paul then asserts that the faithful are set free from sin and become slaves or servants to righteousness.
Paul writes to the Romans about speaking to them in human terms. Due to the weakness of the flesh, Paul uses language that his readers can readily understand. The apostle intends to communicate that we serve one master and that is God.
No One Can Serve Two Masters
Jesus tells us in Matthew 6:24, “No one can serve two masters, for either he will hate the one and love the other; or else he will be devoted to one and despise the other. You can’t serve both God and Mammon. WEB” Jesus came to call us to repentance.
In his statement to the Romans, Paul makes clear that God calls those who believe in Christ to live in submission to the will of God. This means using our minds, bodies, and souls in obedient service to the Lord.
This is akin to slavery but not the chattel slavery that we think of in modern times. Rather, it is a relationship with a definite authority. Paul is teaching that God is the ultimate authority. Those who live in sin, live in rebellion to the authority of God. Those who intend to serve God, must present themselves as servants to righteousness.
Prayer: “Father God, thank you for the clarity of your holy word. Thank you for calling me to repentance. I choose to serve you and your righteousness. Help me live a life that is pleasing to you. In Jesus’ name – Amen”
Yesterday’s Devotional: First Called Christians
