1 Corinthians 4:20
Verse
Context
Paul’s Fatherly Warning
19But I will come to you shortly, if the Lord is willing, and then I will find out not only what these arrogant people are saying, but what power they have.20For the kingdom of God is not a matter of talk but of power.21Which do you prefer? Shall I come to you with a rod, or in love and with a gentle spirit?
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
For the kingdom of God - The religion of the Lord Jesus is not in word - in human eloquence, excellence of speech, or even in doctrines; but in power, εν δυναμει, in the mighty energy of the Holy Spirit; enlightening, quickening, converting, and sanctifying believers; and all his genuine apostles are enabled, on all necessary occasions, to demonstrate the truth of their calling by miracles; for this the original word often means.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
kingdom of God is not in word--Translate, as in Co1 4:19, to which the reference is "speech." Not empty "speeches," but the manifest "power" of the Spirit attests the presence of "the kingdom of God" (the reign of the Gospel spiritually), in a church or in an individual (compare Co1 2:1, Co1 2:4; Th1 1:5).
John Gill Bible Commentary
For the kingdom of God,.... By "the kingdom of God" is not meant the kingdom of heaven, or the ultimate glory and happiness of the saints; though that is a kingdom prepared by God, which he gives to his children, calls them to by his grace, and will give them an abundant entrance into, when time shall be no more with them; and though that is not attained to "in", or "by word", by mere talk and profession; not everyone that says Lord, Lord, shall enter into it; or that professes the name of Christ, and prophesies in it; but "in" or "by power"; through the power of God, beginning, carrying on, and finishing a work of grace upon the soul, and keeping it, through faith, unto salvation: nor the kingdom of grace, or that internal principle of grace in the soul, which reigns, and by which Christ reigns there, and by which the saints appear to be kings as well as priests unto God: though this also does not lie "in word", in a profession of faith, in talking about love, and in making pretensions to the knowledge of divine things; nor merely in deeds, and outward actions, in bodily exercise, in a form of godliness, and a round of religion, and a show of righteousness; but in power: in internal powerful godliness; for true godliness is a powerful thing; faith is powerful, and so is love; and so is prayer, and preaching; and so is all religion, internal and external, where there is the life and truth of grace, and that in exercise. But I rather think the Gospel is here meant, often in Scripture called the kingdom of God, and the doctrines of it, the mysteries of the kingdom; because it is a message from the King of kings; the means of setting up the kingdom or grace in the heart; its subjects are things concerning the kingdom of God; it is what has brought life and immortality, or an immortal life to light; and gives the best account of the invisible glories of the heavenly state, and points out the saints' meetness for it, and title to it; declaring that except a man is born again, and has a better righteousness than his own, even that of Christ's, he shall neither see nor enter into the kingdom of heaven. Now the Gospel is not in "word"; though it lies in the word of God, the Scriptures of truth: and treats of the essential word of God, the Lord Jesus Christ; and cannot be preached without words, even the words of men; yet is not to be preached with wisdom of words, with enticing words of man's wisdom, or in the words which man's wisdom teacheth; nor does the efficacy of it lie in, or depend upon the words of the preacher, or on mere moral persuasion: for whenever it is effectual, it comes not "in word only, but also in power"; Th1 1:5 and by "power" is meant, not a power of working miracles the first preachers of the Gospel had, and by which it was greatly confirmed; nor a godly life and conversation which that enforced upon, and engaged both ministers and people to; but the powerful efficacy of the Spirit, attending the preaching of the Gospel to the quickening of dead sinners, the enlightening of blind eyes, and unstopping of deaf ears; the softening of hard hearts, the delivering of persons from the slavery of sin and Satan, the transforming and renewing of them both inwardly and outwardly; and to the comforting, enlivening, strengthening, and establishing of the saints; all which can never be ascribed to the persuasive language of men, but to the power of God; and which is the more apparent when it is observed what mean and despicable instruments in the eyes of men are made use of: what the doctrines are that are preached, not being of man, nor agreeably to his carnal reason, but esteemed foolishness by him; and the manner in which they are propagated, not in a carnal way, by outward force, but by the foolishness of preaching: and the opposition made to it both by the enmity of man's heart unto it, by the men of the world, and by Satan and his principalities and powers.
1 Corinthians 4:20
Paul’s Fatherly Warning
19But I will come to you shortly, if the Lord is willing, and then I will find out not only what these arrogant people are saying, but what power they have.20For the kingdom of God is not a matter of talk but of power.21Which do you prefer? Shall I come to you with a rod, or in love and with a gentle spirit?
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
The Kingdom of God - Part 1
By B.H. Clendennen4.8K09:45MAT 5:14MAT 6:10MAT 12:28JHN 3:3JHN 18:361CO 4:202CO 5:17EPH 2:8COL 1:13This sermon emphasizes the importance of being born again to truly experience the kingdom of God. It highlights the need for a genuine transformation where Christ is birthed in individuals, leading to a desire to be in God's presence and a deep understanding of the fall and redemption. The message stresses that Christianity is not about religious rituals but about having a personal relationship with Christ and living in His kingdom of light and power.
Apostle's Doctrine - Part 2
By G.W. North2.7K1:23:54Apostles DoctrineMAT 6:331CO 4:201CO 5:12CO 4:172CO 7:1EPH 4:17In this sermon, the speaker discusses the concept of the redemption of the body and the anticipation of the trumpet blowing while believers are still on earth. The speaker emphasizes the joy and transformation that will occur when believers are changed and freed from the power of gravity. The sermon also highlights the importance of having the spirit of Christ within oneself as evidence of being part of the body of Christ. The speaker encourages the congregation to examine their own spirits and ensure they have the spirit of Christ dwelling within them.
sermonindex.net Simulcast 2012: Learning From the Church in China
By E.A. Johnston1.4K01:481SA 4:21MAT 16:181CO 1:311CO 4:20PHP 2:102TI 3:12This sermon contrasts the state of the church in China, where believers face persecution and suffering as part of following Christ, with the church in the West, which has drifted from God's presence due to arrogance and lack of true power. It emphasizes the humility and dedication of Chinese believers who live out their faith in challenging circumstances, in contrast to the comfort-seeking attitude in the West. The message calls for a return to true worship and readiness to endure suffering for Christ, drawing a parallel between the East and West in their approach to faith.
The Power of Prayer
By K.P. Yohannan93526:04PrayerGEN 22:13PSA 32:6ISA 55:8ISA 59:16MAT 6:331CO 4:20JAS 5:16In this sermon, KP Yohanan emphasizes the importance of prayer and intercession for the world. He calls for a revival of prayer, where believers earnestly seek God's face and weep before Him on behalf of society and the world. Yohanan shares a testimony of a prayer meeting where 1800 people gathered to pray, and the Lord showed up in a powerful way. He also highlights the urgent need to pray for countries like Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka, which have been devastated by natural disasters and violence. Yohanan urges listeners to take action and intercede for these nations.
Pentecostal Power
By Derek Prince17644:21Baptism in the Holy SpiritEmpowerment for WitnessLUK 24:49JHN 1:12JHN 14:26JHN 16:13ACT 1:8ROM 8:261CO 4:20EPH 1:20PHP 2:92TI 3:16Derek Prince discusses the significance of the baptism in the Holy Spirit, emphasizing its transformative power in the life of the believer. He outlines three main results: personal empowerment for effective witness, enhanced worship and service within the church, and the preacher's ministry. The baptism is described as a supernatural endowment that provides believers with authority and power, enabling them to impact their communities and deepen their relationship with Christ. Prince highlights that this experience is essential for understanding Scripture and living a life filled with the Holy Spirit's guidance and power.
Spiritual Gifts Training (Part 4)
By Jackie Pullinger4450:45Spiritual GiftsHealing and ForgivenessKingdom Of GodDAN 2:44MAL 4:1MAT 12:28MRK 1:15LUK 10:9JHN 3:81CO 4:20GAL 1:4EPH 1:212TH 1:7Jackie Pullinger emphasizes the transformative power of the Kingdom of God, asserting that it is not merely about words but about divine power manifesting in healing and restoration. She reflects on the historical longing of Israel for their kingdom and how Jesus proclaimed the nearness of the Kingdom, urging believers to actively participate in its realization through acts of healing and forgiveness. Pullinger encourages the congregation to check the teachings against Scripture and to engage in the mission of spreading the Kingdom, highlighting the importance of forgiveness as a prerequisite for healing and spiritual freedom.
"The Kingdom of God Lies Not in Words"
By A.W. Tozer0Holy SpiritPower Of GodMAT 28:18LUK 10:19JHN 16:8ACT 2:37ROM 1:161CO 2:41CO 4:20EPH 3:201TH 1:52TI 1:7A.W. Tozer emphasizes that the Kingdom of God is not found in mere words but in the transformative power of the Holy Spirit. He reflects on Paul's authority and the challenges he faced from those who undermined his teachings, asserting that true faith is demonstrated through the power of God rather than eloquent speech. Tozer warns against the misconception that correct doctrine alone can lead to spiritual renewal, highlighting the necessity of the Holy Spirit's power to convict and transform hearts. He calls for a church that embodies both correct doctrine and the dynamic presence of the Holy Spirit, urging believers to seek a deeper, more powerful experience of faith. Ultimately, Tozer's message is a call to recognize and embrace the power of God in the life of the church.
According to His Will
By G.W. North0Divine WisdomThe Power of the Cross1CO 1:121CO 1:311CO 4:201JN 3:18G.W. North emphasizes that all glory must be directed to the Lord, as human wisdom and achievements are insufficient for true understanding and acceptance of God's will. He points out that the Corinthians had begun to overlook the divine wisdom that comes from loving obedience rather than mere eloquence. True wisdom is demonstrated through actions and the power of God, particularly through the message of the Cross, which is seen as both the power and wisdom of God. North asserts that the essence of God's kingdom lies not in words but in the transformative power of Christ's sacrifice. Ultimately, he calls for a recognition that true wisdom is found in Christ crucified, which challenges human notions of wisdom.
Epistle 297
By George Fox0SalvationPower Of GodGEN 3:15ISA 26:1JHN 3:2ROM 14:17ROM 16:11CO 4:202TI 1:10TIT 2:11JAS 2:5George Fox emphasizes the necessity of remaining in the power of the Lord, as losing this power equates to losing the kingdom characterized by peace, righteousness, and joy. He encourages believers to maintain their connection to the grace of God, which is essential for salvation and comfort. Fox highlights that Christ is the foundation of their gatherings, who overcomes falsehood and brings forth the true gospel, empowering both men and women to fulfill their duties in faith. He reassures that through Christ, believers have dominion and stability, urging them to encourage one another in their spiritual journey.
The Supreme Vocation (Daniel 10:1-21)
By T. Austin-Sparks0Vocational LoveHeaven-Affecting PrayerEZK 14:14DAN 9:2DAN 10:1ROM 14:171CO 4:20EPH 6:10COL 4:31TH 2:18T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the profound significance of God's declaration to Daniel, 'O man greatly beloved,' illustrating that this vocational love transcends mere redeeming love, highlighting Daniel's unique relationship with God's purpose. He discusses the importance of spiritual intelligence and understanding God's intentions, which empower effective prayer that influences both Heaven and Earth. Sparks argues that true prayer must be rooted in a deep comprehension of God's purpose and the current spiritual state, urging believers to separate from worldly principles and personal interests to align with God's will. He concludes that Daniel's persistent and abandoned prayer life serves as a model for believers today, calling them to engage deeply with God's eternal purpose.
The Spirit of Power
By Samuel Chadwick0ISA 40:29ZEC 4:6LUK 9:1LUK 10:17ACT 1:8ACT 2:41CO 2:41CO 4:20EPH 3:202TI 1:7Samuel Chadwick preaches about the two different aspects of power in the New Testament, one representing authority and the other effectiveness, emphasizing the importance of understanding the distinction between the two. He delves into man's instinct for power, highlighting the strong desire for sovereignty and the consequences of seeking power for self-realization rather than through humble trust and obedience. Chadwick discusses the promise of power through the Holy Spirit, explaining how power is essential for fulfilling one's destiny and inheritance, and how the Spirit of God empowers believers for effective witnessing, holiness, and service.
Epistle 349
By George Fox0GEN 3:15PRO 6:14JHN 8:44ROM 14:17ROM 16:11CO 4:201TH 4:12HEB 10:20JAS 1:27JAS 3:17REV 3:14REV 22:13George Fox preaches about the importance of staying in the Lord's power to maintain His kingdom in righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit, free from the devil's influence of strife and discord among brethren. He emphasizes the need to walk in the new and living way, separate from the dead ways of the world, and to uphold the pure religion established centuries ago to remain undefiled before God. Fox encourages adherence to the gospel of Christ, ensuring that men's and women's meetings are ordered by the wisdom of God, promoting peace and gentleness.
Epistle 352
By George Fox0ISA 40:31ISA 49:8JHN 16:33ROM 14:171CO 4:20EPH 2:6COL 1:151PE 1:51JN 5:12REV 1:5George Fox preaches about knowing Jesus Christ, the power of His resurrection, and the importance of being partakers of His life everlasting. He emphasizes the peace found in Christ amidst the troubles of the world and the hatred Christ and His followers face. Fox encourages believers to wait upon the Lord, who renews strength and establishes them upon the unshakable foundation of Christ. He urges the congregation to trust in the Lord's power, to be settled upon the seed of Christ, and to find peace, life, and salvation in Him.
Epistle 353
By George Fox0PSA 51:6ECC 1:14JER 50:5MAT 6:33JHN 6:53JHN 8:23ROM 2:28ROM 14:181CO 4:101CO 4:20GAL 3:8George Fox preaches about the importance of seeking the kingdom of God first and the righteousness of His kingdom, emphasizing the need to be heavenly-minded and to believe in the light, grace, and truth that come from Christ. He urges listeners to crucify their wills and be renewed in their inward man, putting off the old Adam to allow the light of Jesus Christ to shine within. Fox highlights the significance of worshiping God in spirit and truth, circumcising the heart with the spirit, and feeding on the heavenly sacrifice of Christ for true life.
Epistle 44
By George Fox0JOB 28:28PSA 111:10PRO 1:20PRO 16:6PRO 17:24ECC 2:14MAT 5:8MAT 11:19JHN 3:19ACT 8:23ROM 2:15ROM 6:61CO 4:201CO 12:13GAL 5:24COL 2:2JAS 1:5JAS 3:17George Fox preaches about the importance of waiting upon the unlimited power and spirit of the Lord to experience unity, crucify the flesh, mortify evil desires, and put off sin. He emphasizes the need to circumcise the heart, join together with God, and receive living mercies from the living God alone. Fox urges the congregation to wait in the light, heed the inner light from God, and bring forth fruits of righteousness. He warns against being led astray by temptations and priests, highlighting the significance of waiting in the fear of the Lord to see wisdom's gate and receive pure wisdom from God's treasury.
Epistle 300
By George Fox0GEN 26:15ROM 12:16ROM 14:171CO 2:51CO 4:202CO 6:21TH 5:19HEB 13:151PE 1:5REV 21:27George Fox preaches about the importance of standing in the power of God, which is the keeper unto the day of salvation, emphasizing that the kingdom stands in power and not in words. He encourages believers to keep their faith in the power of God, which leads to peace, joy, righteousness, holiness, and unity in the Holy Spirit. Fox reminds the congregation that Christ brings a sword and war, not peace, to break the false peace of earthly ways, religions, worships, and traditions, leading them to the true peace found in Christ alone.
Godly Church Members
By John Newton01CO 4:20EPH 4:1PHP 1:27COL 1:101TH 3:8John Newton emphasizes the importance of a sound and faithful Gospel ministry, urging the congregation to value their privileges and truly desire to grow in their faith. He highlights that the kingdom of God is not just in words but in power, calling for a genuine transformation in the lives of believers. Newton encourages the people to pray for grace to walk worthy of the Gospel, living out their faith in all aspects of life with humility, love, and integrity. He expresses the joy of a minister whose congregation reflects the teachings of godliness in their daily actions, contrasting it with the challenges faced when believers fall into formality, worldliness, or discord.
It Brings Power
By Aaron Hills0LUK 24:49ACT 1:8ACT 4:31ROM 15:191CO 2:41CO 4:20EPH 3:161TH 1:52TI 1:7Aaron Hills preaches about the desire for power that many individuals have, seeking honor, prominence, and gain through ambition and dominance. However, Jesus promised power to His disciples only after their hearts were cleansed by the Holy Spirit, as entrusting carnal men with power often leads to abuse and selfishness. The power given by Jesus is not for selfish gain but to bear witness for Him, to speak boldly about Him and lead others to salvation. This power, received through the baptism of the Holy Spirit, equips believers to preach with divine unction, win souls for Christ, and be effective in their ministry, as seen in the lives of great soul winners throughout history.
A Powerful Church
By Seth Rees0MRK 9:23ACT 1:8ACT 4:31ROM 15:131CO 2:41CO 4:202CO 12:9EPH 6:10PHP 4:131TH 1:5Seth Rees preaches about the indispensable need for power in achieving success, emphasizing that Pentecostal power, likened to dynamite, is essential for the people of God to overcome failure. He highlights the duty and privilege of believers to be strong in the Lord, stressing that weakness is not just a misfortune but a crime in the eyes of heaven. Rees challenges Christians to rely on the power of the Holy Ghost for victory over sin and to transform fear into courage through faith.
A Weighty Question Propounded to the King and Parliament
By Isaac Penington0ISA 29:131CO 4:20COL 3:142TI 3:51JN 4:7Isaac Penington preaches about the weighty question posed to the King and Parliament regarding the extent of man-made laws in relation to obedience, emphasizing the worship of God being limited by God's commands, not man's laws. He challenges the forms of religion without true power, highlighting the importance of love, discipleship to Christ, and the manifestation of the power of Christ in believers. Penington urges for a restoration of religion in power, questioning the effectiveness of forms of worship without true love and life, and the necessity of the power of religion to bring happiness and order to the world.
The Seed of God, and of His Kingdom Treated and Testified Of
By Isaac Penington0MAT 5:3MAT 6:33LUK 4:43LUK 17:20JHN 10:3ROM 14:171CO 4:201PE 1:231JN 3:9Isaac Penington preaches about the seed of God and His kingdom, emphasizing the transformative power of the seed of God in the hearts of believers. He delves into the nature of this seed, describing it as immortal, gathering, purging, sanctifying, enriching, and growing. Penington highlights the effects of this seed, such as union and communion with God, victory over sin, transformation into God's image, obedience to God's will, and the enjoyment of spiritual blessings. He poses thought-provoking queries about the kingdom of God, repentance, righteousness, and the joyful sound of the gospel, inviting listeners to reflect on their spiritual journey and relationship with God.
Not With Observation
By Burris A. Jenkins0MAT 6:33MAT 7:21MRK 1:15LUK 10:9LUK 17:20JHN 3:3JHN 18:36ACT 1:8ROM 14:171CO 4:20Burris A. Jenkins preaches about the misconception of the kingdom of God, emphasizing that it does not come with visible signs or materialistic measures. He highlights how the ancient Hebrews and even the church throughout history have erred in expecting the kingdom to manifest through material success, numbers, and power. Jenkins warns against negative and materialistic conceptions of the kingdom, which can lead to despair, exclusion, and violence, stressing that the true kingdom is moral, spiritual, positive, and not bound by visible boundaries.
Safety in the Power
By George Fox01CO 4:20EPH 3:162TI 1:71PE 1:52PE 1:3George Fox preaches about dwelling in the Power of God to experience peace, oneness, and wisdom from the Most-High. He emphasizes the importance of staying connected to the Power of God to tame unruly spirits and bring souls into alignment with God. By living in the Power, one can feel the End of Words and the Life that transcends earthly desires, leading to love, unity, and the Kingdom of the Most-High.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
For the kingdom of God - The religion of the Lord Jesus is not in word - in human eloquence, excellence of speech, or even in doctrines; but in power, εν δυναμει, in the mighty energy of the Holy Spirit; enlightening, quickening, converting, and sanctifying believers; and all his genuine apostles are enabled, on all necessary occasions, to demonstrate the truth of their calling by miracles; for this the original word often means.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
kingdom of God is not in word--Translate, as in Co1 4:19, to which the reference is "speech." Not empty "speeches," but the manifest "power" of the Spirit attests the presence of "the kingdom of God" (the reign of the Gospel spiritually), in a church or in an individual (compare Co1 2:1, Co1 2:4; Th1 1:5).
John Gill Bible Commentary
For the kingdom of God,.... By "the kingdom of God" is not meant the kingdom of heaven, or the ultimate glory and happiness of the saints; though that is a kingdom prepared by God, which he gives to his children, calls them to by his grace, and will give them an abundant entrance into, when time shall be no more with them; and though that is not attained to "in", or "by word", by mere talk and profession; not everyone that says Lord, Lord, shall enter into it; or that professes the name of Christ, and prophesies in it; but "in" or "by power"; through the power of God, beginning, carrying on, and finishing a work of grace upon the soul, and keeping it, through faith, unto salvation: nor the kingdom of grace, or that internal principle of grace in the soul, which reigns, and by which Christ reigns there, and by which the saints appear to be kings as well as priests unto God: though this also does not lie "in word", in a profession of faith, in talking about love, and in making pretensions to the knowledge of divine things; nor merely in deeds, and outward actions, in bodily exercise, in a form of godliness, and a round of religion, and a show of righteousness; but in power: in internal powerful godliness; for true godliness is a powerful thing; faith is powerful, and so is love; and so is prayer, and preaching; and so is all religion, internal and external, where there is the life and truth of grace, and that in exercise. But I rather think the Gospel is here meant, often in Scripture called the kingdom of God, and the doctrines of it, the mysteries of the kingdom; because it is a message from the King of kings; the means of setting up the kingdom or grace in the heart; its subjects are things concerning the kingdom of God; it is what has brought life and immortality, or an immortal life to light; and gives the best account of the invisible glories of the heavenly state, and points out the saints' meetness for it, and title to it; declaring that except a man is born again, and has a better righteousness than his own, even that of Christ's, he shall neither see nor enter into the kingdom of heaven. Now the Gospel is not in "word"; though it lies in the word of God, the Scriptures of truth: and treats of the essential word of God, the Lord Jesus Christ; and cannot be preached without words, even the words of men; yet is not to be preached with wisdom of words, with enticing words of man's wisdom, or in the words which man's wisdom teacheth; nor does the efficacy of it lie in, or depend upon the words of the preacher, or on mere moral persuasion: for whenever it is effectual, it comes not "in word only, but also in power"; Th1 1:5 and by "power" is meant, not a power of working miracles the first preachers of the Gospel had, and by which it was greatly confirmed; nor a godly life and conversation which that enforced upon, and engaged both ministers and people to; but the powerful efficacy of the Spirit, attending the preaching of the Gospel to the quickening of dead sinners, the enlightening of blind eyes, and unstopping of deaf ears; the softening of hard hearts, the delivering of persons from the slavery of sin and Satan, the transforming and renewing of them both inwardly and outwardly; and to the comforting, enlivening, strengthening, and establishing of the saints; all which can never be ascribed to the persuasive language of men, but to the power of God; and which is the more apparent when it is observed what mean and despicable instruments in the eyes of men are made use of: what the doctrines are that are preached, not being of man, nor agreeably to his carnal reason, but esteemed foolishness by him; and the manner in which they are propagated, not in a carnal way, by outward force, but by the foolishness of preaching: and the opposition made to it both by the enmity of man's heart unto it, by the men of the world, and by Satan and his principalities and powers.