Pitfalls of Spiritual Pride (Romans 12:3-8)

I. Manifestations of spiritual pride (Romans 12:3)

1. Beware of self-deception or deprecation (3 John 9; Philippians 2:3-5; 1 Corinthians 12:7)
2. Beware of defensiveness in self-assessment (Romans 12:3c; Ephesians 2:8-9; 1 Corinthians 15:10)

II. Metaphorical use of the body to illustrate unity and diversity in the church (Romans 12:4-5)

1. Analogy of the human body functioning as individual parts (Romans 12:4-5; 1 Corinthians 12:14-26)
2. Mutual dependence by believers for church edification (Romans 12:5b; Romans 8:9; 1 Corinthians 12:4-11)

III. Mobilization of spiritual gifts of individuals to benefit the church (Romans 12:6-8)

1. The call to serve (Romans 12:6)
2. The posture in service (Romans 12:6b-8a; 1 Corinthians 12:28-31; Ephesians 4:11-12)