2 Corinthians 5:14
Verse
Context
Ambassadors for Christ
13If we are out of our mind, it is for God; if we are of sound mind, it is for you.14For Christ’s love compels us, because we are convinced that One died for all, therefore all died.15And He died for all, that those who live should no longer live for themselves, but for Him who died for them and was raised again.
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
For the love of Christ constraineth us - We have the love of God shed abroad in our hearts, and this causes us to love God intensely, and to love and labor for the salvation of men. And it is the effect produced by this love which συνεχει ἡμας, bears us away with itself, which causes us to love after the similitude of that love by which we are influenced; and as God so loved the world as to give his Son for it, and as Christ so loved the world as to pour out his life for it, so we, influenced by the very same love, desire to spend and be spent for the glory of God, and the salvation of immortal souls. By the fear of God the apostles endeavored to persuade and convince men, and the love of Christ constrained them so to act. If one died for all, then were all dead - The first position the apostle takes for granted; viz. that Jesus Christ died for All mankind. This no apostolic man nor primitive Christian ever did doubt or could doubt. The second position he infers from the first, and justly too; for if all had not been guilty, and consigned to eternal death because of their sins there could have been no need of his death. Therefore, as he most certainly died for All, then all were dead, and needed his sacrifice, and the quickening power of his Spirit.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
For--Accounting for his being "beside himself" with enthusiasm: the love of Christ towards us (in His death for us, the highest proof of it, Rom 5:6-8), producing in turn love in us to Him, and not mere "terror" (Co2 5:11). constraineth us--with irresistible power limits us to the one great object to the exclusion of other considerations. The Greek implies to compress forcibly the energies into one channel. Love is jealous of any rival object engrossing the soul (Co2 11:1-3). because we thus judge--literally, "(as) having judged thus"; implying a judgment formed at conversion, and ever since regarded as a settled truth. that if--that is, that since. But the oldest manuscripts omit "if." "That one died for all (Greek, 'in behalf of all')." Thus the following clause will be, "Therefore all (literally, 'the all,' namely, for whom He 'died') died." His dying is just the same as if they all died; and in their so dying, they died to sin and self, that they might live to God their Redeemer, whose henceforth they are (Rom 6:2-11; Gal 2:20; Col 3:3; Pe1 4:1-3).
John Gill Bible Commentary
And that he died for all, that they which live,.... The end of Christ's dying for men was that they might live; live, in a legal sense, live a life of justification; and that they which live in such a sense, should not henceforth live unto themselves: to their own lusts, and after their own wills, to either sinful self, or righteous self: but unto him which died for them, and rose again; that is, for them, for their justification; for all those for whom Christ died, for them he rose again; and who were justified, acquitted, and discharged when he was; which cannot be said of all mankind; and which is an obligation on such persons to live to Christ, to ascribe the whole of their salvation to him, and to make his glory the end of all their actions. Some copies read, "which died for them all".
Tyndale Open Study Notes
5:14-17 Paul’s doctrine of reconciliation arises from his conviction that (1) Christ died for all believers; (2) in Christ, believers also die to sin and self; and (3) now all believers should live for Christ. The new life in Christ thus leads to a fresh evaluation of other people and of Christ. 5:14 Christ’s love controls us: This could refer either to believers’ love for Christ or (more likely) to Christ’s love for us, which urges believers on in making Christ known through their service (see 1 Cor 9:16).
2 Corinthians 5:14
Ambassadors for Christ
13If we are out of our mind, it is for God; if we are of sound mind, it is for you.14For Christ’s love compels us, because we are convinced that One died for all, therefore all died.15And He died for all, that those who live should no longer live for themselves, but for Him who died for them and was raised again.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
How Much Are You Worth
By Major Ian Thomas11K53:38WorthMAT 6:33ROM 8:1ROM 8:42CO 5:142CO 5:16In this sermon, the preacher discusses the transformation of a man named Solitars into the Apostle Paul. Solitars experienced a moment of humiliation where he realized that a person's worth is determined by the presence of God within them. This realization led to his emancipation and rebirth as Paul the Apostle. The preacher then delves into the argument presented in 2 Corinthians 5:14-17, explaining that the love of Christ compels believers to live exclusively for Jesus Christ. The sermon emphasizes the concept of spiritual regeneration and the purpose of Christ's death for the ungodly, which is to enable them to partake in the divine nature.
(John) 08 - What He Takes He Breaks
By Alan Redpath11K48:53JohnMRK 6:71CO 13:42CO 5:14In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of relying on God's power rather than human programs or gimmicks. He uses the story of Jesus feeding the five thousand as an illustration of how Jesus works with what we have. The preacher highlights the need for complete surrender to God and the importance of reaching people through genuine love and care. He also discusses the disciples' lack of understanding and their focus on the cost of feeding the crowd rather than trusting in God's provision.
If Any Man Be in Christ - Part 2 (Cd Quality)
By Leonard Ravenhill6.3K36:10Christ In You2CO 5:14REV 6:15In this sermon, the preacher reflects on the impact of the Apostle Paul's teachings and the great things he accomplished despite facing numerous challenges. The preacher also mentions Jimmy Straggart, who had a consistent message every week but failed to capture the fullness of God's teachings. The sermon emphasizes the need for personal reflection and wrestling with the Holy Spirit's message, as each individual will be held accountable for what they have heard. The preacher also highlights the importance of loving God wholeheartedly and the urgency to bring deliverance to those who are captive to sin.
2 Corinthians Teaching - God Who Raises the Dead
By K.P. Yohannan5.0K00:00Christian MinistryFear Of GodPSA 139:23PRO 1:7ECC 12:13MAT 10:28ROM 14:122CO 5:112CO 5:14HEB 4:131PE 1:171JN 4:18K.P. Yohannan discusses the profound motivations behind Christian ministry as illustrated in 2 Corinthians, emphasizing the duality of the fear of the Lord and the love of Christ. He highlights how Paul was driven by a reverent fear of God, which instilled a sense of responsibility and accountability in his ministry. Yohannan contrasts this with the contemporary view of God as merely a friend, urging believers to recognize the seriousness of their relationship with the Almighty. He shares a personal story about his son to illustrate the weight of disappointment and the importance of honoring God. Ultimately, he calls on ministers and believers alike to live with a deep reverence for God, understanding the gravity of their actions and the impact on their relationship with Him.
The Word of Reconciliation
By Leonard Ravenhill2.9K1:07:35ReconciliationMAT 6:33ROM 2:6ROM 14:121CO 3:132CO 5:102CO 5:14HEB 9:16In this sermon, the preacher discusses why Christians in Texas don't get overwhelmed by the challenges and uncertainties of life. He uses the example of the apostle Paul, who remained calm and confident even in the midst of a shipwreck. The preacher emphasizes the importance of appearing before the judgment seat of Christ and receiving rewards based on our actions. He also highlights the power of the love of Christ in motivating and guiding believers. Overall, the sermon encourages believers to trust in God's sovereignty and remain steadfast in their faith.
What Is Your Ambition in Life?
By Paul Washer2.9K56:11JHN 3:16ROM 8:16ROM 10:171CO 2:142CO 5:142CO 5:17GAL 2:20In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the weight and responsibility of preaching the word of God. He acknowledges that for some, preaching is a talent show, but for others, it is a heavy burden. The preacher highlights the importance of recognizing the eternal consequences of our actions and the need for salvation. He shares his personal testimony of transformation and emphasizes the necessity of repentance and belief in Jesus Christ for salvation. The sermon concludes with an invitation for further discussion and understanding of the things of God.
Worst Thing to Happen to a Preacher - Part 1
By Leonard Ravenhill2.8K10:21MAL 3:2MAT 16:24ACT 2:41CO 1:181CO 2:42CO 5:141TH 5:17JAS 5:16REV 3:16This sermon emphasizes the need for a revival of true, uncompromising Christianity, challenging the modern church to return to the radical commitment and power demonstrated by figures like Leonard Ravenhill and the Apostle Paul. It critiques the lukewarmness and lack of spiritual fervor in today's church, calling for a genuine encounter with the Holy Spirit to ignite a transformative fire that can impact the world. The speaker highlights the importance of personal devotion, prayer, and a deep care for the spiritual well-being of others, echoing the sacrificial dedication of early Christian leaders despite their hardships.
Travailing - Part 1
By Leonard Ravenhill2.7K09:302CO 5:14GAL 2:20GAL 4:19GAL 6:14PHP 3:7This sermon delves into the profound courage, faith, and love displayed by the apostle Paul as seen in his letter to the Galatians. It explores how Paul's unwavering commitment to the message of the cross and his identification with Christ's crucifixion shaped his perspective on the world and his sacrificial love. The sermon emphasizes the transformative power of fully surrendering to Christ and the radical nature of living out the gospel message.
How to Build Your Church - Slovakia Conference 2003 (Slovakian/english)
By Gary Wilkerson2.0K1:09:00ConferenceISA 59:19MAT 6:33LUK 9:23ROM 6:61CO 2:22CO 5:14GAL 6:14In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of the cross and the message of Jesus Christ. He questions the lack of conversation about Jesus in a meeting where plans and desires were discussed. The speaker shares an example of visiting a slum in Brazil and the poverty he witnessed there. He challenges pastors and Christian workers to be determined and resolute in their focus on the cross of Jesus Christ in their ministry.
Questions and Answers
By Leonard Ravenhill2.0K59:25Question AnswerISA 6:1MAT 6:332CO 3:62CO 4:42CO 5:14In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of disciplining children with love. They suggest that if something is taken away from a child, it should be replaced with something else. The speaker also encourages the establishment of a family altar in every home, where children can be instructed in the word of God. They mention a set of tapes called "Bible in Living Sound" as a helpful resource for teaching children biblical stories. The sermon concludes with a reminder that obedience is the secret to the Christian life, and a moment of prayer is offered.
Challenges to Marriage
By Alan Cairns1.9K1:03:00ISA 32:17ISA 53:52CO 5:14GAL 2:20EPH 4:32EPH 5:25EPH 5:33HEB 12:1This sermon emphasizes the importance of selflessness in marriage, addressing challenges such as communication, children, morals, finances, and selfishness. It highlights the need for couples to prioritize the well-being of each other, rooted in the love of Christ. The ultimate solution to marital difficulties is found in living out the faith of the gospel, denying self, and running the race with patience while looking unto Jesus.
Paul's Passion and Preaching - Part 1
By Leonard Ravenhill1.8K08:35ACT 2:12CO 5:14PHP 1:20This sermon delves into the theme of being constrained by the love of Christ, drawing inspiration from the hymn written by Marishal, emphasizing the fire and life that comes from surrendering to God. It reflects on the passion and vision of early Salvation Army members who blazed with a holy fire, highlighting the need for a renewed Pentecost experience. The focus shifts to Philippians 1:20, where Paul expresses his desire for Christ to be magnified in his body, whether in life or death, showcasing the dedication and sacrifice required in serving God wholeheartedly.
He Was Despised and Rejected of Men and We Will Be Also
By Keith Daniel1.7K1:22:45RejectionPRO 11:30MAT 21:13JHN 3:162CO 5:142TH 1:82TI 3:16In this sermon, the preacher describes a disturbing incident where a person blasphemes and shows no fear of God. The preacher emphasizes the importance of remembering that God loves the world and gave His only Son for salvation. The sermon highlights the power of Christ's love that drives believers to share the gospel and win souls. The preacher urges Christians to have compassion and urgency for the lost, warning that a lack of concern for the unsaved may indicate a lack of true faith.
Travailing - Part 3
By Leonard Ravenhill1.6K09:02JHN 15:52CO 5:14EPH 3:18HEB 11:1This sermon reflects on the life of the apostle Paul, highlighting his immense suffering and dedication to spreading the Gospel despite facing numerous challenges and persecutions. It emphasizes Paul's unwavering faith, love, and intellectual prowess, as well as the profound impact of his ministry on the early church. The sermon also underscores the transformative power of God's love and the need for a revival of such love within the modern church to truly impact the world.
Leonard Ravenhill -Um Dos Maiores Pregadores Do Século (Portuguese Sub-Titles)
By Leonard Ravenhill1.6K10:36MAT 16:241CO 1:182CO 5:14REV 3:16This sermon emphasizes the need for radical commitment to Christ, challenging the complacency and lack of power in modern Christianity. It calls for a return to the fire of the Holy Spirit, a deep prayer life, and a genuine care for the well-being of the Church. The speaker highlights the sacrifices and sufferings of the apostle Paul, contrasting them with the lukewarmness and lack of dedication seen in many believers today.
Living for Ourselves
By Paris Reidhead1.3K42:16SelfishnessJHN 10:7JHN 10:9ROM 6:232CO 5:14EPH 2:5In this sermon transcript, the speaker recounts a personal experience of spending a day with people and documenting their language. The speaker mentions a woman named Mrs. Corder Camp who selflessly helps those in need by providing clothes, food, and sharing the message of Jesus. The speaker also shares a story of a missionary who received a generous donation from Mrs. Corder Camp to spread the gospel to tribes who had never heard of Christ. The sermon concludes with the speaker encountering a man in need and feeling a deep desire to help him, prompting a heartfelt prayer for guidance.
Seek Only God's Approval Part Two
By K.P. Yohannan1.2K24:57Approval Of GodMAT 6:33MAT 28:20JHN 20:212CO 5:14GAL 2:20HEB 13:5The video is a sermon on the importance of missions and reaching out to those who do not know Jesus. The speaker emphasizes the urgency of the task, stating that time is short and we must double our efforts to reap the harvest. He encourages listeners to have an eternal perspective and seek God's kingdom first, as there are millions of people in desperate need of the Lord. The video also promotes a book by KP Johannon called "No Longer a Slumdog" and encourages viewers to visit the website winasia.org for more resources and to share their feedback.
That Which Is Born of Flesh
By J. Henry Brown90539:48MAT 6:33JHN 1:14JHN 3:16ROM 8:1ROM 8:82CO 5:142CO 5:17In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the urgency of preparing oneself for death. He shares a story of a young man who asks a professor how long he should give himself to prepare for death, and the professor responds with just five minutes. The preacher explains that people end up in a lost eternity because they refuse to believe in Jesus Christ and reject his salvation. He emphasizes that it is our responsibility to cooperate with the conviction of the Holy Spirit and avail ourselves of God's provision for salvation, or else face the consequences. The sermon also references the third chapter of the Gospel of John, highlighting the importance of accepting the free gift of salvation through Jesus' sacrifice on the cross.
Rise Up and Build 1997 Conference-01 Keynote Address
By William MacDonald84953:04Conference2CO 5:14In this sermon, Alexander Clark shares a story about a man who was saved by another man and offered everything he owned as a gesture of gratitude. Clark then relates this story to the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross, emphasizing the insignificance and frailty of human beings. He highlights the depravity and sinfulness of humanity, stating that we are unclean and capable of great evil. However, despite our unworthiness, Clark asserts that Jesus died for us and calls on listeners to live for Him. The sermon is based on 2 Corinthians 5:14-15 and encourages reflection on the love of Christ and His sacrifice on the cross.
Studies in 1 Peter-13 1 Peter 4:7-11
By Dwight Pentecost84829:371CO 13:32CO 5:141PE 4:7In this sermon on 1 Peter, Chapter 4, starting at verse 7, the preacher emphasizes the imminent return of Jesus Christ and its implications for believers. He highlights three characteristics that should be evident in the lives of believers who have the hope of Christ's coming. These characteristics are sobriety, watchfulness in prayer, and fervent love for one another. The preacher also emphasizes the importance of fellowship among believers, stating that it is based on our relationship with Christ rather than any external factors. He concludes by referencing the example of Daniel, who experienced intimate fellowship with God even in the midst of trials.
Love Is the Greatest
By Zac Poonen80759:26MAT 5:44LUK 7:47LUK 18:13ROM 5:82CO 5:14EPH 5:2COL 3:141PE 3:71JN 4:19This sermon emphasizes the importance of maintaining a deep love for Jesus by understanding the depth of His sacrifice on the cross and the significance of forgiveness. It highlights the need to prioritize fellowship with God above all else and to love others as Christ loved us, focusing on genuine, sacrificial love that reflects God's mercy and grace.
When Love Comes to Town
By Kevin Turner79638:18Love in ActionFaith and Service2CO 5:14Kevin Turner shares a powerful message about the transformative power of love, particularly the love of Christ, which compels believers to live for others rather than themselves. He recounts his experiences in war zones and disaster areas, emphasizing that true faith is demonstrated through action and sacrifice for those in need. Turner challenges the congregation to reflect on their faith and its impact on their lives and the world, urging them to be conduits of God's love and grace. He highlights that when love comes to town, it brings hope, healing, and a call to serve, reminding everyone that they are called to be agents of change in a broken world.
09-10-80 7p Part Ii
By Bertha Smith72122:37Christian LifeMAT 11:28JHN 10:10ACT 1:8ROM 6:62CO 5:14EPH 5:181JN 1:9In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of living a glorious life as a Christian. He highlights the need for believers to understand their position in Christ and how to respond to it. The preacher also emphasizes the significance of repentance and receiving all that God has promised. He encourages the congregation to be filled with the Holy Spirit and not to live a defeated life. The sermon concludes with an invitation for those who want to make a break with their old selves and fully commit to following God.
Our Reconciliation to God
By Mannie Troyer6391:21:17SalvationMAT 9:372CO 5:142CO 5:17PHP 2:15In this sermon, the preacher reflects on the familiar scripture of John 3:16, emphasizing God's love for the world and His sacrifice for our benefit. The preacher shares a personal experience of sitting in a courtroom and draws spiritual parallels between the judge, the accused, and the accuser. The sermon focuses on the importance of living in a way that demonstrates our reconciliation with God and the need to share the gospel with others. The preacher references various Bible verses, including 2 Corinthians 5:14, Philippians 2:15, and Mark 16, highlighting the Great Commission and the power of preaching the word of reconciliation.
The Tabernacle (1 of 2)
By G.W. North2571:29:45TabernacleEXO 26:312CO 5:14In this sermon, the speaker begins by expressing his excitement for the weekend, as it allows for a deeper focus on spiritual matters. After some initial announcements, the speaker delves into the fifth chapter of the Bible. He emphasizes the power of the cross and how through Christ's death, all believers have also died. The speaker then discusses the concept of God furnishing a table in the wilderness, highlighting that there is a better table available through God's grace. The sermon concludes with the profound truth that God made Jesus Christ sin, emphasizing the depth of God's sacrifice for humanity.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
For the love of Christ constraineth us - We have the love of God shed abroad in our hearts, and this causes us to love God intensely, and to love and labor for the salvation of men. And it is the effect produced by this love which συνεχει ἡμας, bears us away with itself, which causes us to love after the similitude of that love by which we are influenced; and as God so loved the world as to give his Son for it, and as Christ so loved the world as to pour out his life for it, so we, influenced by the very same love, desire to spend and be spent for the glory of God, and the salvation of immortal souls. By the fear of God the apostles endeavored to persuade and convince men, and the love of Christ constrained them so to act. If one died for all, then were all dead - The first position the apostle takes for granted; viz. that Jesus Christ died for All mankind. This no apostolic man nor primitive Christian ever did doubt or could doubt. The second position he infers from the first, and justly too; for if all had not been guilty, and consigned to eternal death because of their sins there could have been no need of his death. Therefore, as he most certainly died for All, then all were dead, and needed his sacrifice, and the quickening power of his Spirit.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
For--Accounting for his being "beside himself" with enthusiasm: the love of Christ towards us (in His death for us, the highest proof of it, Rom 5:6-8), producing in turn love in us to Him, and not mere "terror" (Co2 5:11). constraineth us--with irresistible power limits us to the one great object to the exclusion of other considerations. The Greek implies to compress forcibly the energies into one channel. Love is jealous of any rival object engrossing the soul (Co2 11:1-3). because we thus judge--literally, "(as) having judged thus"; implying a judgment formed at conversion, and ever since regarded as a settled truth. that if--that is, that since. But the oldest manuscripts omit "if." "That one died for all (Greek, 'in behalf of all')." Thus the following clause will be, "Therefore all (literally, 'the all,' namely, for whom He 'died') died." His dying is just the same as if they all died; and in their so dying, they died to sin and self, that they might live to God their Redeemer, whose henceforth they are (Rom 6:2-11; Gal 2:20; Col 3:3; Pe1 4:1-3).
John Gill Bible Commentary
And that he died for all, that they which live,.... The end of Christ's dying for men was that they might live; live, in a legal sense, live a life of justification; and that they which live in such a sense, should not henceforth live unto themselves: to their own lusts, and after their own wills, to either sinful self, or righteous self: but unto him which died for them, and rose again; that is, for them, for their justification; for all those for whom Christ died, for them he rose again; and who were justified, acquitted, and discharged when he was; which cannot be said of all mankind; and which is an obligation on such persons to live to Christ, to ascribe the whole of their salvation to him, and to make his glory the end of all their actions. Some copies read, "which died for them all".
Tyndale Open Study Notes
5:14-17 Paul’s doctrine of reconciliation arises from his conviction that (1) Christ died for all believers; (2) in Christ, believers also die to sin and self; and (3) now all believers should live for Christ. The new life in Christ thus leads to a fresh evaluation of other people and of Christ. 5:14 Christ’s love controls us: This could refer either to believers’ love for Christ or (more likely) to Christ’s love for us, which urges believers on in making Christ known through their service (see 1 Cor 9:16).