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Acts 20:32
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Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
I commend you to God - Instead of τῳ Θεῳ, to God, several MSS. have τῳ Κυριῳ, to the Lord; neither reading makes any difference in the sense. And to the word of his grace - The doctrine of salvation by Christ Jesus. Which is able to build you up - The foundation is Jesus Christ; God is the great master-builder; the doctrine of his grace, or mercy, points out the order and manner, as well as the extent, etc., of this building. Let us observe the order of these things: - 1. The soul of man, which was formerly the habitation of God, is now in a state of ruin. 2. The ruins of this soul must be repaired, that it may again become a habitation of God through the Spirit. 3. Jesus Christ is the only foundation on which this house can be rebuilded. 4. The doctrine of God's grace is the model, or plan, according to which the building can be raised. 5. When re-edified, each is to be a lively temple of the Lord, made inwardly pure and outwardly righteous, and thus prepared for a state of bliss. 6. Being made children of God, by faith in Christ Jesus, and sanctified by his Spirit, they have a right to the heavenly inheritance; for only the children of the family can possess the celestial estate. Thus we find they must be saved by grace, and be made thereby children of God; be sanctified by his Spirit; and, then, being prepared for, they are removed, in due time, into the heavenly inheritance.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
I commend you to God--the almighty Conservator of His people. and to the word of his grace--that message of His pure grace (Act 20:24) by the faith of which He keeps us (Pe1 1:5). which--that is, God. is able to build you up, and to give you an inheritance, &c.--Observe how salvation--not only in its initial stages of pardon and regeneration, but in all its subsequent stages of "up-building," even to its consummation in the final inheritance--is here ascribed to the "ability" of God to bestow it, as in Rom 16:25; Eph 3:20; particularly Jde 1:24; and compare Ti2 1:12, where the same thing is ascribed to Christ. among all them which are sanctified--Sanctification is here viewed as the final character and condition of the heirs of glory, regarded as one saved company.
John Gill Bible Commentary
And when he had thus spoken,.... And finished his speech to the elders: he kneeled down: upon the floor, which was a prayer gesture, used by Christ, and others; for, it seems, the disuse of kneeling in prayer, between the passover and pentecost, which Tertullian (k), and other writers, speak of, had not yet obtained, which was in memory of Christ's resurrection from the dead, for this was now the time: see Act 20:6 and prayed with them all: and no doubt for them all; the Syriac version renders it, "and he prayed, and all the men with him"; the apostle, and the elders, joined together in prayer. (k) De Corona Militis, c. 3.
Acts 20:32
Paul’s Farewell to the Ephesians
31Therefore be alert and remember that for three years I never stopped warning each of you night and day with tears.32And now I commit you to God and to the word of His grace, which can build you up and give you an inheritance among all who are sanctified.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
(The Missing Messages in Today's Christianity) Understanding God's Full Purpose
By Zac Poonen2.5K58:13ChristianityACT 20:18ACT 20:27ACT 20:32ACT 20:35In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of following the example of true servants of God. He encourages the audience to value and listen to those who demonstrate a genuine commitment to God's work. The preacher also emphasizes the need for the word of God to transform our thinking and make us more like Christ. He reminds the audience of the importance of living out the teachings of the Bible in their daily lives. The sermon concludes with a call to be alert and to continually seek correction and growth in our spiritual journey.
Breaking Bread
By Paris Reidhead1.3K41:21Breaking BreadMAT 6:33ACT 20:7ACT 20:32ACT 20:35In this sermon, the speaker discusses the importance of recognizing and identifying with what the Lord is doing. The apostle Paul's concern was for the church at Troas, and he preached to them until late at night, despite the potential discomfort it may have caused. The speaker emphasizes the tendency of Christians to focus on one aspect of the Word and neglect the broader message. The sermon also mentions the incident of a young man falling from a window and being restored to life by Paul, highlighting the miraculous power of God.
Growing in the Grace of God #05 - the New Covenant of Grace
By Bob Hoekstra1.2K55:52MAT 5:48MAT 6:33ACT 20:24ACT 20:32HEB 7:18In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of understanding the contrast between the old covenant of law and the new covenant of grace. He encourages listeners to study the previous week's sermon on the old covenant of law to fully grasp the significance of this study. The message of the law is to be perfect and holy like God, but it is unable to make anyone perfect. The speaker highlights the need for the grace of God, which is able to build up believers and give them an inheritance among the sanctified.
The Joys of Christian Giving
By Peter Aceti1.1K1:04:02GivingLUK 6:38ACT 20:322CO 9:7In this sermon, the speaker discusses four parables from Matthew 25 that emphasize the importance of being faithful and responsible in our service to the Lord. The first principle highlighted is the need to plan ahead and think about the future. The speaker also emphasizes the significance of giving to our homes and families, as it reflects our priorities and heart's desires. Additionally, the sermon explores eight areas of Christian giving, including the motive, measure, and method of giving. The overall message encourages believers to develop a plan for giving and to have a mature understanding of receiving and giving in the context of our relationship with God.
Book of Acts Series - Part 23 | Courage to Live
By Jim Cymbala1.0K31:24Book Of ActsMAT 6:33ACT 20:24ACT 20:32ROM 15:42CO 1:20EPH 6:10HEB 10:24In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of courage in facing discouragements and disappointments in life. He shares the story of a pastor who faced opposition and criticism while preaching, yet continued to minister with courage. The preacher also highlights the need for encouragement, especially when overwhelmed by guilt from sin. He references the story of Paul and Silas being beaten and imprisoned, but still finding the courage to continue their mission. Overall, the message encourages listeners to have courage, seek encouragement, and trust in God's presence and faithfulness.
The Grace of God
By Bob Hoekstra99659:16ACT 20:32ROM 1:17ROM 5:2COL 2:62TI 2:1TIT 2:11HEB 13:9JAS 4:6This sermon focuses on the importance of growing in the grace of God, emphasizing the need to be established in grace for daily living. It explores the concepts of humility and faith as relational realities that develop as we grow in our relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ. The sermon highlights the access to grace through faith and the necessity of relying on the strength and power of Jesus Christ for living a life pleasing to Him.
Make Your Life Count 4
By George Verwer99535:01Counting The CostACT 4:31ACT 20:321CO 8:132CO 3:17GAL 5:131JN 4:1In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of spiritual balance in the lives of believers. He encourages the audience to seek a balance between enthusiasm and being easily led astray. The preacher also discusses the balance between crisis experiences and the process of growth in one's faith. He highlights the miracle of people from different backgrounds coming together at the Jesus festival, emphasizing the need to bridge the gap between non-charismatic and charismatic believers. The sermon references 1st John chapter 4 verse 1 and touches on the concept of purging oneself of self-regard and training in pure love.
Spiritual Survival in the 80s 2
By George Verwer85753:57Spiritual SurvivalACT 2:4ACT 4:31ACT 20:32GAL 5:13EPH 4:11EPH 5:18COL 3:16In this sermon, the speaker discusses the importance of balance in the Christian life. He emphasizes the role of different spiritual gifts in the church, such as apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers, in bringing maturity and unity to believers. The speaker also highlights the need for balance between spiritual warfare and rest, drawing from Hebrews chapter four. He cautions against overemphasizing liberty and questioning established church practices, urging young people to seek truth and guidance from God and others.
Evangelistic Conference 1978 (Mcmaster University) - Part 1
By George Verwer61540:36ConferenceMAT 6:33ACT 20:19ACT 20:27ACT 20:32ACT 20:351CO 9:27In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of staying true to the word of God and being aware of false teachings. He warns the audience to be vigilant and remember his constant warnings over the course of three years. The speaker also discusses the importance of selflessness and giving, citing the words of Jesus that it is more blessed to give than to receive. He acknowledges the challenges of laziness and encourages the audience to overcome it through discipline and a strong foundation in worship and fellowship.
Spiritual Balance (Dutch)
By George Verwer1921:16:43DutchMAT 6:33ACT 8:25ACT 20:321TH 5:12HEB 13:172PE 3:18In this sermon, the speaker discusses the importance of finding balance in various aspects of life. They emphasize the need for discipline and planning, while also allowing room for God to guide and bring something special. The speaker also addresses the balance between zeal and wisdom, highlighting the difference between reckless faith and discernment. They emphasize the importance of using both faith and common sense in decision-making. Additionally, the speaker talks about the balance between intellectual and emotional aspects of Christianity, emphasizing the need for both theology and emotional experiences. They also mention the importance of freedom and allowing room for failure in spiritual development.
Wise Words for Living (English to Dutch)
By George Verwer1301:20:23DutchACT 4:31ACT 8:4ACT 8:25ACT 20:321TH 5:122PE 3:18In this sermon, the speaker discusses the importance of finding balance in various areas of life. He emphasizes the need to plan ahead while also leaving room for God to guide and bring something special. The speaker also highlights the balance between zeal and wisdom, reckless faith and discernment. He mentions the balance between crisis experiences and spiritual growth, emphasizing the importance of both emotional recommitment to God and steady spiritual development. The sermon concludes by emphasizing the need for balance in other areas of life, such as organization, family dynamics, and church ministry.
How to Increase Our Effectiveness in Prayer
By Mike Bickle221:00:10Power Of PrayerIntercessionISA 30:18EZK 22:30JOL 2:12MAT 17:21MRK 4:24ACT 20:32EPH 5:18HEB 4:12JAS 4:2REV 3:21Mike Bickle emphasizes the significance of intercession in prayer, explaining that God desires partnership with His people to effect change in both the spiritual and natural realms. He highlights that while God has established many aspects of His eternal plan, He has also given humanity a dynamic role in determining the quality of life through prayer. Bickle encourages believers to understand that their prayers, even if they feel weak or ineffective, hold immense power and can avert disasters and bring blessings. He stresses the importance of persistence in prayer and the necessity of aligning one's heart with God's word to experience the fullness of His blessings. Ultimately, Bickle calls for a deeper revelation of intercession within the body of Christ to fully engage in God's governmental authority.
What Paul Said About Holiness 3
By Aaron Hills0ACT 20:32ROM 6:6GAL 5:17EPH 1:4EPH 4:30EPH 5:25Aaron Hills preaches about the apostle Paul's teachings on sanctification as a second work of grace, emphasizing the importance of seeking entire sanctification as the standard set by the Holy Ghost. Paul's writings in various books of the Bible consistently highlight the Pentecostal blessing of sanctification, urging believers to pursue a deeper level of holiness and consecration. The apostle's message revolves around the need for Christians to be sanctified by the Spirit, to yield themselves to God, and to be filled with the Spirit, ultimately leading to a life free from sin and fully dedicated to God's will.
The Person of Christ the Great Repository of Sacred Truth
By John Owen0Divine TruthThe Person of ChristJHN 1:4JHN 1:18JHN 14:6ACT 20:32ROM 11:332CO 4:6EPH 4:21PHP 3:8COL 2:9TIT 1:1John Owen emphasizes that the person of Christ is the ultimate source and representation of divine truth, which is essential for understanding God's nature and will. He explains that all truth derives from God, with Christ being the essential image of the Father and the repository of all supernatural truths. Owen argues that without recognizing Christ's central role, spiritual truths lose their light and efficacy, rendering them ineffective in transforming lives. He warns that rejecting Christ leads to a distortion of all other truths, as they are interconnected through Him. Ultimately, true knowledge of divine truth is only possible through a relationship with Christ, who is the life and light of all understanding.
Cross: Pardon by the Cross
By G. Campbell Morgan0MAT 7:15ACT 20:321TH 2:32TI 2:142PE 2:6Greek Word Studies preaches on the concept of 'ruin' (katastrophe), which signifies total destruction and turning things upside down. This state of ruin can be seen in the downfall of cities like Sodom and Gomorrah, as well as in the spiritual corruption and perversion of individuals. Engaging in word battles and controversies can lead to catastrophic outcomes, turning people away from the truth and causing harm to believers. The antidote to such ruinous behavior is found in focusing on the word of God's grace, which builds up and edifies the hearers.
Spiritual Power
By Samuel Logan Brengle0Spiritual PowerPrayer and MeditationPSA 119:105MAT 6:6JHN 15:5ACT 20:32ROM 12:2EPH 6:10PHP 4:61TH 5:172TI 3:16JAS 4:8Samuel Logan Brengle emphasizes that God is the ultimate source of spiritual power, which can be accessed through meditation on His word and secret prayer. He recounts an encounter with an Ensign who underestimated the importance of dedicating time to Scripture study, suggesting that many desire spiritual strength yet neglect the means to obtain it. Brengle warns that without consistent prayer and meditation, individuals risk spiritual weakness and eventual death. He encourages believers to prioritize time with God, asserting that this devotion is essential for spiritual growth and strength. Ultimately, he assures that through quiet communication with God and attentive listening to His word, peace and power can be restored.
Paul's Farewell Discourse at Ephesus.
By John Gill0GraceDivine GuidancePSA 33:6JHN 1:1JHN 1:14ACT 20:32ROM 14:122CO 5:192TI 1:12HEB 4:121PE 1:4JUD 1:1John Gill reflects on Paul's farewell discourse to the elders of Ephesus, emphasizing the apostle's deep affection and concern for the church. Paul commends the believers to God and the Word of His grace, highlighting the importance of divine guidance and protection against false teachings. He reminds them of their need for God's grace, wisdom, and power to build them up and secure their inheritance among the sanctified. Gill underscores that true ministers should direct souls to Christ and His grace rather than their own works, ensuring that believers find strength and encouragement in their faith. The sermon concludes with a call to trust in the boundless grace of God and the sufficiency of Christ as the Word of grace.
Lessons for the Tempted
By John A. Broadus0GEN 32:10NUM 16:7DEU 1:61KI 12:281CH 21:15PSA 37:29ACT 20:32ROM 6:6ROM 8:162CO 3:52CO 5:5REV 5:12The preacher delves into the meaning of 'qualified' in the Bible, emphasizing that believers are made fit and sufficient through the completed act of Jesus' crucifixion, allowing them to enter the Holy of Holies and receive their inheritance. This qualification is a gift from God, highlighting that no amount of human effort or knowledge can achieve salvation. The preacher stresses the importance of humility and gratitude, as our fitness for heaven is solely based on Christ's righteousness bestowed upon us at the moment of salvation.
The Great Inheritance
By T. Austin-Sparks0Spiritual WarfareInheritanceJOS 1:6LUK 12:32ACT 20:32ACT 26:18ROM 6:4EPH 3:20COL 1:12COL 3:1HEB 9:151PE 1:4T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the significance of the inheritance in the life of believers, drawing parallels between the Old Testament and the New Testament. He explains that the inheritance is not merely a reward but the very essence of redemption, which encompasses past, present, and future salvation. Sparks warns that many may miss this inheritance, just as the majority of Israel did in the wilderness, and stresses the necessity of a circumcised heart and spiritual readiness to claim it. He highlights the role of the Holy Spirit in empowering believers to overcome spiritual battles and take possession of their inheritance. Ultimately, he encourages the congregation to be strong and courageous in their pursuit of God's promises.
Sanctified by God the Father
By Dougan Clark0MAT 5:48JHN 3:16JHN 14:16ACT 20:32ROM 5:82CO 13:14EPH 5:251TH 5:231PE 1:15JUD 1:1Dougan Clark emphasizes the significance of being sanctified by God the Father, highlighting the involvement of each person of the Trinity in the sanctification process, underscoring the essential nature of being cleansed from sin and prepared for heaven. He stresses the urgency of accepting this sanctification now, as it is not optional but a prime necessity in the eyes of God. Clark delves into the profound impact of God's grace in our sanctification, pointing out that behind every blessing is the incomprehensible love of God, culminating in the gift of His Son and the Holy Spirit for our sanctification and comfort.
Living According to God's Word
By Bob Hoekstra0ACT 20:32Bob Hoekstra preaches on the life of David, emphasizing his dependence on God's grace and trust in His word. Living according to God's word not only provides direction but also resources for those who follow it. The Psalmist in Psalms 119 highlights the all-inclusive nature of living according to the word, showing how it leads to forgiveness, salvation, and revival in times of need.
The Life and Power of Divine Truth in Christ
By John Owen0JHN 1:4JHN 7:17JHN 15:5ACT 20:32EPH 4:20PHP 3:11John Owen emphasizes the essential relation of all spiritual truths to Christ, highlighting that spiritual light and efficacy are derived from this connection. Without acknowledging Christ as the foundation of divine truths, they cannot bring true spiritual enlightenment or power. Furthermore, Owen explains that all divine truths ultimately point to Christ, whether revealing God's grace and love or instructing us in our obedience and gratitude. He stresses that our understanding, ability to obey, and comfort in spiritual truths all depend on our relationship with Christ, who is the source of all grace and power.
What Is Repentance?
By Tom Garner0NEH 9:3ACT 20:32EPH 4:122TI 3:161PE 5:2The preacher emphasizes the importance of equipping the saints, using the Greek word 'katartismos' which means to make something or someone completely adequate or sufficient for a purpose. This involves mending, repairing, and making whole, similar to setting bones or mending nets. Paul calls for unity and completeness in the church, urging believers to be made complete in the same mind and judgment. The responsibility of church leaders is to equip the saints by using God's Word, ensuring they are fully prepared for every good work.
Psalm 24
By Henry Law0JHN 1:1ACT 20:32COL 3:172TI 2:15HEB 4:12The preacher delves into the deep meaning of 'Lógos' (Word) in the Greek language, emphasizing that it goes beyond mere words to convey underlying concepts or ideas. The sermon explores how 'Lógos' is used in the Bible, particularly in relation to Jesus Christ as the Word of God. It highlights the importance of adhering to the faithful Word that aligns with the teachings of Jesus and the apostles, urging overseers to feed on the Scriptures for spiritual health and to combat the schemes of the devil.
The Canon of the New Testament
By F.F Bruce0JHN 16:13ACT 20:321CO 2:131TH 2:132TI 3:16HEB 4:122PE 1:212PE 3:16REV 22:18F.F. Bruce delves into the historical research behind the formation of the New Testament canon, exploring how the Holy Spirit guided the selection and collection of the writings. The sermon discusses early lists of New Testament books by Marcion and the Muratorian Fragment, highlighting the gradual recognition of the twenty-seven books. It emphasizes the importance of determining divinely authoritative books for Christian doctrine and disputes with heretics, leading to the formal inclusion of the New Testament books in the canon by the Church. The sermon concludes by affirming the Church's right choice in selecting the New Testament books over other early documents and apocryphal writings.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
I commend you to God - Instead of τῳ Θεῳ, to God, several MSS. have τῳ Κυριῳ, to the Lord; neither reading makes any difference in the sense. And to the word of his grace - The doctrine of salvation by Christ Jesus. Which is able to build you up - The foundation is Jesus Christ; God is the great master-builder; the doctrine of his grace, or mercy, points out the order and manner, as well as the extent, etc., of this building. Let us observe the order of these things: - 1. The soul of man, which was formerly the habitation of God, is now in a state of ruin. 2. The ruins of this soul must be repaired, that it may again become a habitation of God through the Spirit. 3. Jesus Christ is the only foundation on which this house can be rebuilded. 4. The doctrine of God's grace is the model, or plan, according to which the building can be raised. 5. When re-edified, each is to be a lively temple of the Lord, made inwardly pure and outwardly righteous, and thus prepared for a state of bliss. 6. Being made children of God, by faith in Christ Jesus, and sanctified by his Spirit, they have a right to the heavenly inheritance; for only the children of the family can possess the celestial estate. Thus we find they must be saved by grace, and be made thereby children of God; be sanctified by his Spirit; and, then, being prepared for, they are removed, in due time, into the heavenly inheritance.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
I commend you to God--the almighty Conservator of His people. and to the word of his grace--that message of His pure grace (Act 20:24) by the faith of which He keeps us (Pe1 1:5). which--that is, God. is able to build you up, and to give you an inheritance, &c.--Observe how salvation--not only in its initial stages of pardon and regeneration, but in all its subsequent stages of "up-building," even to its consummation in the final inheritance--is here ascribed to the "ability" of God to bestow it, as in Rom 16:25; Eph 3:20; particularly Jde 1:24; and compare Ti2 1:12, where the same thing is ascribed to Christ. among all them which are sanctified--Sanctification is here viewed as the final character and condition of the heirs of glory, regarded as one saved company.
John Gill Bible Commentary
And when he had thus spoken,.... And finished his speech to the elders: he kneeled down: upon the floor, which was a prayer gesture, used by Christ, and others; for, it seems, the disuse of kneeling in prayer, between the passover and pentecost, which Tertullian (k), and other writers, speak of, had not yet obtained, which was in memory of Christ's resurrection from the dead, for this was now the time: see Act 20:6 and prayed with them all: and no doubt for them all; the Syriac version renders it, "and he prayed, and all the men with him"; the apostle, and the elders, joined together in prayer. (k) De Corona Militis, c. 3.