Mercy, one body, and overcoming evil (Romans 12:1–21)

Says After the doxology that all things are from God, through him, and to him (11:36), Paul writes, "Therefore I urge you, brothers, on account of God’s mercy" (12:1, BSB). The appeal that follows is made on account of that mercy.

Says The chapter has three movements. Bodies are to be offered as living sacrifices, and the mind renewed, so that God's will may be tested (12:1–2). The many are one body in Christ, with differing gifts (12:3–8). Love is to be sincere, persecutors blessed, and evil overcome with good (12:9–21).

Implies "Therefore" joins the appeal to mercies already declared. It does not open a second way of standing before God. Contested phrases are not decided here; see the notes on 12:1–2, 12:3–8, 12:9–16, and 12:17–21.

Says "Do not avenge yourselves, beloved, but leave room for God’s wrath" (12:19, BSB). "Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good" (12:21, BSB). What civil authority requires is not settled in this chapter. Romans 13 takes up governing authorities.