(read v.1 & 2)
(V.1-2) The command to "offer" ourselves to God reminds us of ch.6, where Paul used this same verb to express the basic response of believers to God's grace to us in Christ (see 6:13, 16, 19). We no longer offer animal sacrifices; we now offer ourselves as "living sacrifices." This offering of ourselves to God is our "true and proper worship" (12:1). We offer ourselves not ignorantly, like animals brought to slaughter, but intelligently and willingly. This is the worship that pleases God.
The old age to which we belonged in our pre-Christian past entices us to follow its "pattern" of sinful behavior. Rather than "conforming" our conduct to that age we must be "transformed" in our behavior by having a completely new mindset. A new orientation in our thinking leads to a new orientation in behavior.
Application (v.1-2):
We as believers are guided by our minds, which are in the process of being renewed by God's Spirit so that they perfectly reflect God's will. But because that process will never be completed in this life, we still need the external guidance of God's commands as set forth in Scripture. Put another way: Guidance computers in jet airliners tell pilots where they are and where to go, but airports still have runway lights. Similarly, knowledge of the truth comes with a call to penal accountability.
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