Our series “Received Righteousness” following the book of Romans continues.  Romans 12 begins with the beautiful phrase: in view of God’s mercy…  The previous chapters have made clear the core message of the gospel.  God’s mercy has been put on full display.  Now the emphasis shifts to our response.  In view of God’s mercy how shall we then live?  In Romans 12 we have described new kingdom ways in which we are to relate to God, friends and enemies.  In chapter 13 how we are to relate to governing authorities is the focus.  In chapter 14 we see how relationships should work among fellow believers, between the weak and the strong.  Chapter 15 broadens are call to healthy relationships to include not just our brothers and sisters in Christ but to all our neighbors.  And Christ is our example in how to bear the failings of the weak and not to please ourselves.  For in our weakness we were not cast aside but rather picked up and carried by Him.