Ten times Paul uses this phrase in the book of Romans (Rom 3:4, 3:6, 3:31, 6:2, 6:15, 7:7, 7:13, 9:14, 11:1, and 11:11). In fact it's a great way to understand the book of Romans, because in each case, Paul is posing a very important question and answers it with this phrase. It's like Paul's mini-catechism. (Definition: catechism means to learn by question and answer). Some of the great doctrines of Romans (and the NT) are covered in these ten questions.
Other tidbits:
- Sound thinking is not to think too highly or too lowly of yourself, but commensurate to your measure of faith (Rom. 12:3).
- For those in prophetic ministry, there are different levels of gracing, depending on setting, how you minister, depth of general revelation; etc. Know your limitations, but exercise your gift (Rom. 12:6).
- Abhor. Yes, bring this word back into your vocabulary (Rom. 12:9).
- "Contribute to the needs of the saints." Part of church is not just outreach but "patient care." We also need to take care of our own (Rom. 12:13, 10).
- Not only rid yourself of prideful behavior, but hidden prideful thoughts (Rom. 12:16).
- God does judge injustice. He does take action against wrong, but give Him space to do it (Rom. 12:19).