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Hebrews 12:11
Verse
Context
God Disciplines His Sons
10Our fathers disciplined us for a short time as they thought best, but God disciplines us for our good, so that we may share in His holiness. 11No discipline seems enjoyable at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it yields a harvest of righteousness and peace to those who have been trained by it.
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
No chastening for the present seemeth to be joyous - Neither correction, wholesome restraint, domestic regulations, nor gymnastic discipline, are pleasant to them that are thus exercised; but it is by these means that obedient children, scholars, and great men are made. And it is by God's discipline that Christians are made. He who does not bear the yoke of Christ is good for nothing to others, and never gains rest to his own soul. The peaceable fruit of righteousness - i.e. The joyous, prosperous fruits; those fruits by which we gain much, and through which we are made happy. Exercised thereby - Γεγυμνασμενοις· To the trained. There is still an allusion to the Grecian games; and in the word before us to those gymnastic exercises by which the candidates for the prizes were trained to the different kinds of exercises in which they were to contend when the games were publicly opened.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
joyous . . . grievous--Greek, "matter of joy . . . matter of grief." The objection that chastening is grievous is here anticipated and answered. It only seems so to those being chastened, whose judgments are confused by the present pain. Its ultimate fruit amply compensates for any temporary pam. The real object of the fathers in chastening is not that they find pleasure in the children's pain. Gratified wishes, our Father knows, would often be our real curses. fruit of righteousness--righteousness (in practice, springing from faith) is the fruit which chastening, the tree yields (Phi 1:11). "Peaceable" (compare Isa 32:17): in contrast to the ordeal of conflict by which it has been won. "Fruit of righteousness to be enjoyed in peace after the conflict" [THOLUCK]. As the olive garland, the emblem of peace as well as victory, was put on the victor's brow in the games. exercised thereby--as athletes exercised in training for a contest. Chastisement is the exercise to give experience, and make the spiritual combatant irresistibly victorious (Rom 5:3). "Oh, happy the servant for whose improvement his Lord is earnest, with whom he deigns to be angry, whom He does not deceive by dissembling admonition" (withholding admonition, and so leading the man to think he needs it not)! [TERTULLIAN, Patience, 11]. Observe the "afterwards"; that is the time often when God works.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Now no chastening for the present seemeth to be joyous,.... These words anticipate an objection, taken from the grief and sorrow that comes by afflictions; and therefore how should they be for profit and advantage? The apostle answers, by granting that no affliction "seemeth" to be joyous, in outward appearance to flesh and blood, and according to the judgment of carnal sense and reason; in this view of afflictions, it must be owned, they do not appear to be matter, cause, or occasion of joy; though they really are, when viewed by faith, and judged of by sanctified reason; for they are tokens of the love of God and Christ; are evidences of sonship; and work together either for the temporal, or spiritual, or eternal good of the saints: and so likewise indeed "for the present time", either while under them, or in the present state of things, they seem so; but hereafter, either now when they are over; or however in the world to come, when the grace, goodness, wisdom, and power of God in them, in supporting under them, bringing out of them, and the blessed effects, and fruits of them, will be discerned, they will be looked upon with pleasure: but for the present, and when carnal sense and reason prevail, it must be allowed, that they are not matter of joy, but grievous; or matter, cause, and occasion of grief; they cause pain and grief to the afflicted, and to their friends and relations about them; and especially, they are very grieving, and occasion heaviness, and are grievous to be borne, when soul troubles attend them; when God hides his face, and the soul is filled with a sense of wrath, looking upon the chastening, as being in wrath and hot displeasure; when Satan is let loose, and casts his fiery darts thick and fast; and when the soul has lost its views of interest in the love of God, and in the grace of Christ, and in eternal glory and happiness. Nevertheless, afterwards it yieldeth the peaceable fruit of righteousness unto them that are exercised thereby: who are used unto afflictions; "trained" up and instructed in the school of afflictions, as the word may signify; in which many useful lessons of faith and hope, patience and experience, humility, self-denial; and resignation of will, are learned: and to such afflictions yield "the fruit of peace"; external peace and prosperity sometimes follow upon them; and oftentimes internal peace is enjoyed in them; and they always issue to such in eternal peace and everlasting happiness; and this peace arises from the "righteousness" of Christ, laid hold upon by faith, which produces a true conscience peace, and entitles to that everlasting joy and rest which remains for the people of God. Moreover, the fruit of holiness may be designed, which saints by afflictions are made partakers of, and the peace enjoyed in that; for there is a peace, which though it does not spring from, yet is found in the ways of righteousness; and though this peace may not be had for the present, or while the affliction lasts, yet it is experienced "afterwards"; either after the affliction is over in the present life, or however in eternity, when the saints enter into peace; for the end of such dispensations, and of the persons exercised by them, is peace,
Hebrews 12:11
God Disciplines His Sons
10Our fathers disciplined us for a short time as they thought best, but God disciplines us for our good, so that we may share in His holiness. 11No discipline seems enjoyable at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it yields a harvest of righteousness and peace to those who have been trained by it.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
(Hebrews - Part 17): Faithful in Truth and Love
By A.W. Tozer5.1K35:29ExpositionalHEB 6:10HEB 6:18HEB 10:23HEB 12:5HEB 12:11In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of Christians actively engaging in their faith. He criticizes those who are hesitant to put effort into their Christianity, comparing them to chickens running away from their responsibilities. The preacher urges believers to be diligent and pour themselves into their faith, as the world is growing old and judgment is approaching. He highlights the need for Christians to seek the excellent riches of heavenly gifts and not settle for mere scraps, encouraging them to have faith and patience in inheriting God's promises.
(Hebrews - Part 42): Discipleship
By A.W. Tozer5.0K25:55ExpositionalHEB 2:10HEB 12:5HEB 12:11In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of discipleship and the discipline of the cross in preparing believers for heaven. He explains that God puts us under discipline to train us and prepare us for our future in heaven. The speaker highlights the need for believers to endure chastening and embrace discipleship as a necessary part of their journey. He contrasts the earthly realm, which he describes as a democracy of the mediocre, with the heavenly realm, where distinctions and crowns exist based on the preparation and discipleship undergone on earth. The sermon is based on the biblical text from Revelation and emphasizes the role of discipline in shaping believers for their eternal destiny.
(Genesis) Genesis 39:21-23
By J. Vernon McGee4.5K03:50GenesisGEN 39:21MAT 6:33ROM 8:28HEB 12:11JAS 1:12In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the story of Joseph from the Bible. He highlights how despite the challenging circumstances Joseph faced, the Lord was with him and showed him mercy. Joseph found favor with the Keeper of the Present and was given authority over the prisoners. The preacher emphasizes that Joseph's ability and attractiveness alone would not have brought him success, but it was God's presence and guidance in his life that led to his prosperity. The sermon also mentions that Satan tries to discourage and disappoint believers, but Joseph's example shows how he lived on top of his circumstances and recognized the hand of God in his life.
America's Last Call (Part 6 of 6)
By David Wilkerson3.8K1:00:03AmericaISA 57:19JER 8:13JER 29:11MAT 6:33LUK 21:28HEB 12:11REV 21:2In this sermon, the preacher begins by expressing their devotion to Jesus and thanking Him for His faithfulness and love. They then discuss the arrogance, greed, and covetousness that has led to the downfall of nations and individuals. The preacher highlights the violence and disregard for human life, particularly in the form of abortion, as a sign of society's moral decay. They also criticize the neglect of missions in favor of materialistic pursuits. The sermon concludes with a call for repentance and a warning that God will discipline and educate the younger generation.
(Godly Home) Part 12 - a Sacred Exercise
By Denny Kenaston3.5K40:37Godly Home SeriesPRO 13:24PRO 22:6PRO 29:17MAT 6:33EPH 6:4COL 3:21HEB 12:11In this sermon, Brother Denny discusses the topic of discipline and its importance in raising children. He emphasizes the need to approach discipline with a spirit of love and compassion, rather than anger. Brother Denny encourages parents to take the time to properly discipline their children, even if it may seem like a lengthy process. He also emphasizes the importance of seeking guidance from God and allowing Him to lead in the discipline process. After the spanking, Brother Denny emphasizes the need for affirmation and comforting the child, showing them love and understanding.
Bearing Fruit - Part 3
By Keith Daniel3.3K09:37JOB 1:21PSA 34:19JHN 16:33ROM 5:32CO 4:17PHP 1:29HEB 12:11JAS 1:21PE 4:121PE 5:10This sermon emphasizes the reality of trials, tribulations, and persecution that believers may face, contrary to the false teachings of prosperity and guaranteed healing. It highlights the refining process through suffering, the necessity of enduring hardships for spiritual growth, and the misconception that coming to Jesus guarantees a life free of struggles. The speaker shares personal experiences of intense trials and the need to trust God's sovereignty even in the midst of overwhelming challenges.
Consider Him - Hebrews 12-3-17
By Anthony Mathenia2.4K46:17HEB 12:1HEB 12:11HEB 12:14HEB 12:28This sermon delves into Hebrews 12, emphasizing the Christian race as a theme, urging believers to endure and run the race set before them. It highlights the importance of responding to trials with faith and focusing on Jesus amidst difficulties. The sermon stresses the need for corporate support, pursuing peace and holiness, and avoiding pitfalls like bitterness and godlessness. The ultimate goal is to run the race well, looking to Jesus as the perfect example and source of strength.
Fixing Your Eyes - Hebrews 12-1-2
By Anthony Mathenia2.2K44:33HEB 4:15HEB 10:36HEB 12:1HEB 12:11This sermon emphasizes the importance of persevering in the Christian race, highlighting the need for endurance, laying aside weights and sins, and fixing our eyes on Jesus as the ultimate example and finisher of our faith. The message stresses the necessity of making progress in Christ-likeness, running the course set by Christ, and persevering to the end with a regulated effort.
Danger of Drifting
By Stephen Olford2.0K35:35DriftingMAT 6:33HEB 1:1HEB 2:1HEB 4:11HEB 6:4HEB 10:25HEB 12:11In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of preventing spiritual drifting. He starts by illustrating the consequences of drifting by recounting the story of David and Bathsheba, where lust led to adultery and murder. The speaker then shifts to the New Testament and highlights the example of Peter, who initially had a deep spiritual revelation but later drifted away. The main message is that as preachers and missionaries, it is crucial to give earnest heed to the teachings of Jesus and not drift away from them. The speaker emphasizes that God's final word to the world is in his son, Jesus Christ.
Discipline - Personal Life
By Hoseah Wu1.9K1:13:24DisciplineDEU 8:5PSA 50:17HEB 12:11REV 3:19In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of discipline in various aspects of life. He uses the example of musicians who must practice and give their all to perform well. The speaker also discusses the difficulty of submission and sacrifice in love. He then references several Bible verses, including Deuteronomy 8:5-10, which speaks about God disciplining his people and leading them into a good land. The speaker also mentions the importance of remembering and showing hospitality to strangers. Overall, the sermon highlights the need for discipline and obedience in order to experience the blessings of God.
Standing on the Wrong Side of the Battle
By Carter Conlon1.6K45:191SA 29:111SA 30:8PSA 18:2LUK 6:22HEB 12:11This sermon emphasizes the importance of being on the right side of the spiritual battle, highlighting the consequences of straying from God's path and the need to return to seeking His will. Using the story of David in 1 Samuel, it encourages believers to trust in God's strength and guidance, even in the face of opposition and mistakes. The message calls for a return to faith, prayer, and seeking God's word to recover what the enemy has taken and to stand firm in the victory that God provides.
The Tyranny of the Soul
By Devern Fromke1.5K1:13:46TyrannyPRO 4:18MAT 6:33JHN 11:1EPH 5:14HEB 12:11In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of spiritual reality over mere religious practices. He highlights the tendency for people to focus on urgent tasks and externalities, rather than prioritizing the deeper, spiritual aspects of their faith. The speaker encourages listeners to move beyond surface-level religion and seek the heart and reality of what God desires. He also mentions the significance of the Lord's table and the need to approach worship with a genuine, experiential connection to Jesus.
Do Not Grow Weary of Discipline
By Richard Owen Roberts1.3K1:32:11DriftingHEB 12:1HEB 12:5HEB 12:11HEB 12:14In this sermon, the speaker begins by asking the audience to imagine themselves in a European cathedral, surrounded by biblical figures like Moses and Abraham. The sermon then shifts to the topic of suffering, referencing passages from 1 Peter that emphasize the importance of judgment and the difficulty of salvation. The speaker shares a personal experience of pleading with God for a change in their own approach to others. Finally, the sermon explores the concept of discipline, highlighting the discipline of the cloud of witnesses, the runner, and ultimately, the self-discipline of Jesus Christ.
Desperation, Resignation - Part 8
By Keith Daniel1.3K08:49PSA 34:18ROM 8:282CO 12:72CO 12:9PHP 4:13HEB 12:11JAS 4:101PE 5:6This sermon explores the concept of brokenness as the first step to greatness in God's plan. It delves into the idea that God allows challenges and weaknesses in our lives to bring out His strength and grace, leading to opportunities and heights we never imagined. The message emphasizes the importance of embracing God's will in times of desperation, seeking revelation, and ultimately resigning to His plan, finding joy and strength in our weaknesses.
(Saved Through the Fire) 11 - the Hope of the Promise
By Milton Green1.3K26:28HEB 12:7HEB 12:111PE 1:3In this sermon, the speaker shares his personal testimony of going through tough times and relying on God's faithfulness. He emphasizes the importance of walking with God and holding onto His promises. The speaker highlights the significance of faith and belief in Jesus, as well as the joy and salvation that come from trusting in Him. He also discusses the concept of discipline from God, explaining that it is a sign of being a legitimate child of God and leads to righteousness.
12 the Rod Is Love
By Denny Kenaston1.2K46:06PRO 13:24PRO 19:18PRO 22:15PRO 23:13PRO 29:15PRO 29:17EPH 6:4COL 3:21HEB 12:5HEB 12:11This sermon emphasizes the importance of balancing love and discipline in parenting, focusing on the biblical perspective of using the rod to correct children with love. It highlights the significance of not sparing the rod out of love for the child's well-being, the need to start discipline early while there is hope, and the impact of proper correction on shaping children's character and understanding of God's love.
The Holy Spirit
By Bob Bruton1.1K20:42Holy SpiritPSA 119:9PSA 119:11ACT 11:242TI 2:20HEB 12:111JN 1:9In this sermon, the speaker begins by inviting God into every area of their life and asking for cleansing from sin. They emphasize the importance of studying the Bible and relying on the Holy Spirit for strength. The speaker mentions the concept of being a clean vessel that God can use for His work, using the example of Barnabas in the Bible. They also discuss the process of acknowledging, asking for forgiveness, accepting God's forgiveness, and acting upon it when we sin. The sermon concludes with the idea that if we continue to sin despite studying the Bible and inviting the Holy Spirit, God may discipline us until we stop our wrongdoing.
How to Make Your Child Mind Without Losing Yours!
By George Verwer1.1K1:06:26ChildrenMAT 6:33LUK 13:6HEB 12:5HEB 12:11REV 2:21In this sermon, the speaker discusses God's judgment on erring Israel and how it led to the disappearance of the Northern Kingdom and the enslavement of the Southern Kingdom. The speaker raises the question of whether parents should oblige their children to leave home because of their sin, drawing parallels to God's long-suffering with Israel and Judah. The sermon emphasizes the importance of discipline and not allowing disruptive behavior in the church, while still showing love and care for the children. The speaker also encourages parents to be like God to their children and to seek transformation through Jesus Christ.
The Trial of Your Faith
By Paris Reidhead1.1K39:19TrialMRK 10:17HEB 12:11In this sermon, the speaker discusses the purpose of trials and challenges in the lives of believers. He emphasizes that God allows these experiences to refine and shape our faith. The speaker shares personal anecdotes about being disciplined as a child and expresses gratitude for the lessons learned through those experiences. He concludes by highlighting that the ultimate goal of all life's experiences is to bring praise, honor, and glory to Jesus Christ.
15. the Bondage of Foolishness
By Denny Kenaston1.1K43:36PRO 3:11PRO 13:24PRO 20:30PRO 22:15PRO 23:13PRO 29:15PRO 29:17EPH 6:4COL 3:21HEB 12:11This sermon delves into the concept of the 'bondage of foolishness' as described in Proverbs 22:15, emphasizing the importance of understanding and addressing the root causes of children's wrong behavior. It highlights the need for parents to discern and address silliness and foolishness in their children, guiding them towards righteousness and obedience through loving discipline. The sermon explores the impact of foolishness on children's conscience and the role of discipline in bringing clarity and revival to their hearts, ultimately leading to peace and joy.
Deferred Obedience 2 - Part 2
By Joshua Daniel1.1K08:44DEU 6:6PRO 13:24PRO 22:6PRO 29:15MAT 21:28EPH 6:1COL 3:20HEB 12:11This sermon emphasizes the importance of obedience, both in the family and in our relationship with God. It highlights the consequences of deferred obedience, irresponsible parenting, and the need for correction and discipline. The story of the two sons in Matthew 21:28-32 is used to illustrate the significance of repentance and obedience in doing the will of the Father.
Special Meetings 04 Psalm 84:
By John W. Bramhall99448:16JOB 13:15PSA 119:11MAT 5:10JHN 13:16PHP 4:132TI 3:14HEB 12:11In this sermon, the speaker focuses on Psalm 84 and divides it into three sections: finding God, following God, and fellowshipping with God. The first section emphasizes the importance of recognizing that we cannot follow God in our own strength, but rather our strength comes from Him. The speaker references Philippians 4:13, where Paul declares that he can do all things through Christ who strengthens him. The second section highlights the blessings of dwelling in God's house and praising Him. The final section encourages believers to seek fellowship with God and to continue to joyfully follow Him until they reach their heavenly home. The sermon also references Isaiah 55:6-7, which urges people to seek the Lord while He may be found and promises abundant pardon and mercy for those who turn to Him.
13 a Sacred Exercise
By Denny Kenaston97145:03DEU 6:6PSA 127:3PRO 13:24PRO 22:6PRO 22:15PRO 29:15EPH 6:4COL 3:21HEB 12:11This sermon emphasizes the importance of loving discipline in parenting, highlighting the need for parents to approach spanking as a sacred exercise done in love and compassion. It addresses the dangers of spanking in anger and the significance of instructing, affirming, and praying with the child during the discipline process. The speaker encourages parents to follow God's example of discipline, focusing on building a close relationship with their children through correction and guidance.
Keeping Spiritually Fresh
By George Verwer96546:23SpiritualityHEB 12:1HEB 12:5HEB 12:11HEB 12:14HEB 12:28In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of staying spiritually fresh and avoiding the traps of Satan. They acknowledge that many people have lost their freshness and fallen for lies, allowing bitterness and resentment to creep into their lives. However, the speaker encourages listeners that they can live in personal revival and stay spiritually fresh by following the principles found in the Word of God. They also discuss the importance of evangelism and spending time with unbelievers, as well as the financial aspect of ministry and the dignity of living off support from others. The speaker references various Bible passages to support their points throughout the sermon.
God Wants Brokenness (Clip)
By Ian Robson74807:10DEU 8:2PSA 51:17PRO 22:4MAT 23:121CO 1:27PHP 2:3HEB 12:11JAS 1:2JAS 4:101PE 5:6This sermon emphasizes the importance of humility in our spiritual journey, highlighting how God uses various circumstances and relationships to break and humble us. It stresses the need for brokenness rather than self-sufficiency, illustrating that God desires humble hearts that are willing to yield to His work. The speaker shares personal experiences of being humbled by God's leading and encourages the congregation to embrace humility, recognizing that God tests us to reveal what is truly in our hearts and to see if we will obey His commandments.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
No chastening for the present seemeth to be joyous - Neither correction, wholesome restraint, domestic regulations, nor gymnastic discipline, are pleasant to them that are thus exercised; but it is by these means that obedient children, scholars, and great men are made. And it is by God's discipline that Christians are made. He who does not bear the yoke of Christ is good for nothing to others, and never gains rest to his own soul. The peaceable fruit of righteousness - i.e. The joyous, prosperous fruits; those fruits by which we gain much, and through which we are made happy. Exercised thereby - Γεγυμνασμενοις· To the trained. There is still an allusion to the Grecian games; and in the word before us to those gymnastic exercises by which the candidates for the prizes were trained to the different kinds of exercises in which they were to contend when the games were publicly opened.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
joyous . . . grievous--Greek, "matter of joy . . . matter of grief." The objection that chastening is grievous is here anticipated and answered. It only seems so to those being chastened, whose judgments are confused by the present pain. Its ultimate fruit amply compensates for any temporary pam. The real object of the fathers in chastening is not that they find pleasure in the children's pain. Gratified wishes, our Father knows, would often be our real curses. fruit of righteousness--righteousness (in practice, springing from faith) is the fruit which chastening, the tree yields (Phi 1:11). "Peaceable" (compare Isa 32:17): in contrast to the ordeal of conflict by which it has been won. "Fruit of righteousness to be enjoyed in peace after the conflict" [THOLUCK]. As the olive garland, the emblem of peace as well as victory, was put on the victor's brow in the games. exercised thereby--as athletes exercised in training for a contest. Chastisement is the exercise to give experience, and make the spiritual combatant irresistibly victorious (Rom 5:3). "Oh, happy the servant for whose improvement his Lord is earnest, with whom he deigns to be angry, whom He does not deceive by dissembling admonition" (withholding admonition, and so leading the man to think he needs it not)! [TERTULLIAN, Patience, 11]. Observe the "afterwards"; that is the time often when God works.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Now no chastening for the present seemeth to be joyous,.... These words anticipate an objection, taken from the grief and sorrow that comes by afflictions; and therefore how should they be for profit and advantage? The apostle answers, by granting that no affliction "seemeth" to be joyous, in outward appearance to flesh and blood, and according to the judgment of carnal sense and reason; in this view of afflictions, it must be owned, they do not appear to be matter, cause, or occasion of joy; though they really are, when viewed by faith, and judged of by sanctified reason; for they are tokens of the love of God and Christ; are evidences of sonship; and work together either for the temporal, or spiritual, or eternal good of the saints: and so likewise indeed "for the present time", either while under them, or in the present state of things, they seem so; but hereafter, either now when they are over; or however in the world to come, when the grace, goodness, wisdom, and power of God in them, in supporting under them, bringing out of them, and the blessed effects, and fruits of them, will be discerned, they will be looked upon with pleasure: but for the present, and when carnal sense and reason prevail, it must be allowed, that they are not matter of joy, but grievous; or matter, cause, and occasion of grief; they cause pain and grief to the afflicted, and to their friends and relations about them; and especially, they are very grieving, and occasion heaviness, and are grievous to be borne, when soul troubles attend them; when God hides his face, and the soul is filled with a sense of wrath, looking upon the chastening, as being in wrath and hot displeasure; when Satan is let loose, and casts his fiery darts thick and fast; and when the soul has lost its views of interest in the love of God, and in the grace of Christ, and in eternal glory and happiness. Nevertheless, afterwards it yieldeth the peaceable fruit of righteousness unto them that are exercised thereby: who are used unto afflictions; "trained" up and instructed in the school of afflictions, as the word may signify; in which many useful lessons of faith and hope, patience and experience, humility, self-denial; and resignation of will, are learned: and to such afflictions yield "the fruit of peace"; external peace and prosperity sometimes follow upon them; and oftentimes internal peace is enjoyed in them; and they always issue to such in eternal peace and everlasting happiness; and this peace arises from the "righteousness" of Christ, laid hold upon by faith, which produces a true conscience peace, and entitles to that everlasting joy and rest which remains for the people of God. Moreover, the fruit of holiness may be designed, which saints by afflictions are made partakers of, and the peace enjoyed in that; for there is a peace, which though it does not spring from, yet is found in the ways of righteousness; and though this peace may not be had for the present, or while the affliction lasts, yet it is experienced "afterwards"; either after the affliction is over in the present life, or however in eternity, when the saints enter into peace; for the end of such dispensations, and of the persons exercised by them, is peace,