Rich Wilkerson Jr. — The Book of Romans: 3 Words We Love to Forget

When you think of weddings, you can quickly imagine the classic lines: for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, until death do us part. The words hold weight because there is a level of accountability around them. Upholding the marriage vows becomes the daily determination of the couple.

In our continued talk through the Book of Romans, Pastor Rich Wilkerson Jr illustrates that Christians too have made a vow that holds us accountable to what we profess to believe. Our promise is to live lives of sacrifice, service and submission. But how often do we follow through?

The issue may be that it’s not uncommon, upon hearing the words sacrifice, service and submission, to think that we’re playing from a losing position. And according to the world’s standards, it’s not appealing to take on those acts because it may open us up to be taken advantage. However, Paul makes it clear that we are not operating according to the pattern of the world. Because of Christ’s example, we can powerfully live out our lives.

The primary challenge in living lives of sacrifice, service and submission is to change our thinking. In fact, we’re encouraged to renew our minds, to have a paradigm shift to have forward progress. Once we do, we understand that when we sacrifice, we are giving up one thing for something better. When we act in service to one another, we are building up a stronger church. And when we submit, we are giving over authority to the One who created heaven and earth.

While the world wants us to forget our vows, let’s instead remember that we find our fullest life when we walk them out. Christ didn’t save us so that we’d set up for weak, small or burdened lives. Take heart in following Jesus’ model of sacrifice, service and submission, for by them he conquered death, hell and the grave. Because he rules, we can live victoriously with him.