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Hebrews 12:14
Verse
Context
A Call to Holiness
13Make straight paths for your feet, so that the lame may not be disabled, but rather healed.14Pursue peace with everyone, as well as holiness, without which no one will see the Lord. 15See to it that no one falls short of the grace of God, and that no root of bitterness springs up to cause trouble and defile many.
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Follow peace with all men - Cultivate, as far as you possibly can, a good understanding, both with Jews and Gentiles. Ειρηνην διωκετε, pursue peace with the same care, attention, and diligence, as beasts do their game; follow it through all places; trace it through all winding circumstances; and have it with all men, if you can with a safe conscience. And holiness - Τον ἁγιασμον· That state of continual sanctification, that life of purity and detachment from the world and all its lusts, without which detachment and sanctity no man shall see the Lord - shall never enjoy his presence in the world of blessedness. To see God, in the Hebrew phrase, is to enjoy him; and without holiness of heart and life this is impossible. No soul can be fit for heaven that has not suitable dispositions for the place.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
follow peace with all men--with the brethren especially (Rom 14:19), that so the "lame" among them be not "turned out of the way" (Heb 12:13), and that no one of them "fail of the grace of God" (Heb 12:15). holiness--a distinct Greek word from God's "holiness" (Heb 12:10). Translate here "sanctification." His is absolute holiness: our part is to put on His holiness, becoming "holy as He is holy," by sanctification. While "following peace with all men," we are not so to seek to please them, as to make God's will and our sanctification a secondary object; this latter must be our first aim. (Gal 1:10). without which--Greek, "apart from which." no man shall see the Lord--no man as a son; in heavenly glory (Rev 22:3-4). In the East, none but the greatest favorites are admitted to the honor of seeing the king (compare Sa2 14:24). The Lord being pure and holy, none but the pure and holy shall see Him (Mat 5:8). Without holiness in them, they could not enjoy Him who is holiness itself (Zac 14:20). The connection of purity with seeing the Lord, appears in Jo1 3:2-3; Eph 5:5. Contrast Heb 12:16 (compare Th1 4:3). In Mat 24:30; Rev 1:7, it is said that all shall see the Lord; but, that shall be as a Judge, not as their lasting portion and God, which is meant here. The Greek verb does not denote the mere action of seeing, but the seer's state of mind to which the object is presented: so in Mat 5:8 they shall truly comprehend God [TITTMANN]. None but the holy could appreciate the holy God, none else therefore shall abide in His presence. "The bad shall only see Him in His form as Son of man [compare Rev 1:13, with Rev 1:7; and Mat 24:30; Act 1:11; Act 17:31]; still it will be in the glory in which He shall judge, not in the lowliness in which He was judged. His form as God, wherein He is equal to the Father, without doubt the ungodly shall not see; for it is only 'the pure in heart who shall see God'" [AUGUSTINE]. "He shall come to judge, who stood before a judge. He shall come in the form in which He was judged, that they may see Him whom they pierced: He who was before hidden shall come manifested in power: He, as Judge, shall condemn the real culprits, who was Himself falsely made a culprit."
John Gill Bible Commentary
Looking diligently,.... Acting the part of bishops, or overseers, as the word signifies; and so this exhortation either respects officers of the church of the Hebrews, whose business it was more especially to inspect into the principles and practices of the members of it, and take care that they did not imbibe false doctrines, or live immoral lives; or rather the several members of the church, whose business it is to watch over one another, since this epistle seems to be written to the whole church. Lest any man fail of the grace of God; not the free favour and love of God in Christ, which is everlasting, unchangeable, and from whence there is no separation; nor the grace of God implanted in the heart in regeneration, which is incorruptible, never failing, but always remains, as do faith, hope, and love; but either the whole doctrine of the Gospel, which is a declaration of the grace of God; or particularly the doctrine of free justification by the righteousness of Christ, which men may receive in vain, and fall from, Co2 6:1 to which these Hebrews might be prone: and such "fail" of it, who either come short of it, do not come up to it, receive and embrace it; or who having professed it, drop it and deny it: now such should be looked after, and such a case should be diligently looked into; because the glory of God, the honour of Christ, the good of souls, and the well being, and even the continuance of the church state are concerned: lest any root of bitterness springing up trouble you, and thereby many be defiled; the Alexandrian copy reads , "the many", the common people, the private members of the church; though it may intend either things or persons: it may design things; and these either the corruption of nature in general, which is a root that lies hidden in a man's heart; and is a root or gall of bitterness; and is apt to spring up, and bring forth bitter fruit, and gives trouble both to a man's self and others; and is of a defiling nature, in particular sins; such as malice, strife, and contention, covetousness, lust, pride, oppression, idleness, &c. which make bitter work, and occasion great trouble in churches, oftentimes: or errors and heresies, which sometimes, like roots, lie under ground, secret and undiscovered; and are bitter ones in their effects, bringing ruin and swift destruction on the souls of men; and these sometimes spring up in churches, while ministers and members are asleep, or not so diligent and watchful as they should be; and occasion great trouble, and are very infectious, and defiling: moreover, persons may be designed; which agrees well with Deu 29:18 from whence this phrase is taken; and with the instance in the following verse, such as all immoral persons, and false teachers, particularly self-justiciaries, that preach the doctrine of justification by the works of the law: this was the capital mistake, and rooted error of the Jewish nation; and a bitter one it was; it produced many bitter fruits of pride and vain glory; and this sprung up in the church, and troubled and defiled many there and elsewhere, being spread by the abettors of it; see Act 15:24. Now, care should be taken, that no such person be in churches, holding such an error; because of the glory of God, Father, Son, and Spirit; the comfort of souls; the peace of the church, and the growth and increase of it, which must be hurt by such men and doctrines; so , "a sinful root", is used for a "wicked man", in the Apocrypha: "In those days went there out of Israel wicked men, who persuaded many, saying, Let us go and make a covenant with the heathen that are round about us: for since we departed from them we have had much sorrow.'' (1 Maccabees 1:11) and , "a root of bitterness", signifies, in Jewish writings (u), an error, or heresy, in opposition to a root of faith, or a fundamental doctrine. (u) Cosri, Orat. 1. fol. 35. 1.
Hebrews 12:14
A Call to Holiness
13Make straight paths for your feet, so that the lame may not be disabled, but rather healed.14Pursue peace with everyone, as well as holiness, without which no one will see the Lord. 15See to it that no one falls short of the grace of God, and that no root of bitterness springs up to cause trouble and defile many.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Chosen to Be Holy
By Alan Redpath30K56:01ROM 7:24ROM 8:291CO 1:30EPH 1:4EPH 5:18HEB 12:141PE 1:15In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of holiness and the responsibility that believers have to strive for it. He highlights that this convention is of utmost importance, surpassing any other conventions happening in Dallas. The speaker also discusses the three possible outcomes for the world: the immediate return of Jesus Christ, the absolute destruction of civilization, or the continuation of the current state. The main focus of the sermon shifts to the experience of the fullness of the Holy Spirit, with the speaker introducing the theme for the day and laying a foundation for further discussion. He references Ephesians 1:4 and emphasizes the need for continuous blessings and transformation in the believer's life. The speaker also addresses the issue of rationalizing sin and the importance of recognizing and overcoming personal weaknesses. He concludes by highlighting the spiritual warfare that the Church faces and the need for the power of the Holy Spirit to effectively reach and transform lives.
Repentance in Kansas City
By Andrew Strom23K52:40MAT 3:7MAT 5:8MAT 23:33LUK 18:9ROM 2:162CO 13:5HEB 12:14In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the state of Christian meetings and how they often fail to truly impact people. He emphasizes the need for authenticity and a genuine encounter with God in our gatherings. The speaker also highlights the importance of personal repentance and surrender to God, acknowledging that He sees and judges the secret sins of our hearts. The sermon references the powerful revivals led by Charles Finney and Savonarola as examples of the transformative impact of revival preaching.
Accountability to God - Part 2
By Leonard Ravenhill14K25:24Accountability to GodAccountabilityPurity of HeartPSA 51:10MAT 5:8JHN 10:10ACT 15:8ROM 3:232CO 5:17GAL 2:20EPH 4:22HEB 12:141JN 1:9Leonard Ravenhill emphasizes the critical need for accountability to God, illustrating the transformative power of genuine repentance and the pursuit of purity in the heart. He recounts a personal story of a woman who, after a deep cry for mercy, experienced true salvation, contrasting it with his own struggle with sin and misery. Ravenhill argues that the greatest sin is the desire to run one's own life apart from God, and he stresses that true Christianity is about allowing Christ to live within us, leading to a pure heart and a renewed spirit. He challenges the modern church's tendency to downplay sin and calls for a return to recognizing the need for deep, inward cleansing and the power of the Holy Spirit. Ultimately, he encourages believers to seek purity, as it is the foundation for true power in their lives and ministries.
Thundering in Nashville
By Andrew Strom14K46:05MAT 3:2MAT 6:24MAT 7:21MAT 23:33ACT 2:37HEB 12:141JN 3:3In this sermon, the preacher discusses the decline of American TV and the need for God's people to take Him seriously and repent. He emphasizes the cultural sins that people may not even realize they are committing and the importance of true prophets who will bring conviction and repentance. The preacher calls for a John the Baptist-like figure to rise up and deliver a searing message that exposes the emptiness of material possessions and challenges the church's allegiance to money. He references biblical figures like John the Baptist and Charles Finney to illustrate the kind of preaching that is needed in today's society.
At the Price of God's Own Blood
By John Piper14K27:39Giving AllMAT 7:13ACT 20:25ACT 20:28ROM 6:11EPH 1:7HEB 12:141PE 1:18In this sermon, Pastor John Piper emphasizes the importance of holiness, zeal for good works, and commitment to world evangelization. He highlights that Jesus bled and died to purchase our holiness and to ignite a passion for good deeds that goes beyond mere avoidance of sin. Furthermore, he emphasizes that Christ's sacrifice should fill us with a fervor for spreading the gospel to the world. Piper acknowledges that we all fall short in these areas and encourages the congregation to seek God's forgiveness and redirection in their lives. He also reminds them that beneath these three aspects lies the foundational purchase of forgiveness, justification by faith, and reconciliation to God through Christ's sacrifice.
Deeper Waters - Part 1
By Leonard Ravenhill12K25:54Depth of Relationship with GodSanctificationMAT 5:8JHN 1:1JHN 14:6JHN 17:17ROM 12:22CO 6:171TH 4:3HEB 12:14JAS 1:51PE 1:16Leonard Ravenhill emphasizes the profound depth of the Gospel of John, particularly focusing on the themes of sanctification and the nature of Jesus as both divine and human. He argues that the Gospel is not merely a collection of four accounts but a singular narrative revealing the essence of Christ. Ravenhill highlights the importance of understanding Jesus' prayer in John 17, which he considers a sacred moment that showcases the need for believers to seek wisdom and sanctification in their lives. He challenges the church to move beyond superficial spirituality and to embrace a deeper relationship with God, emphasizing the necessity of separation from worldly influences. Ultimately, he calls for a commitment to holiness and a deeper understanding of God's majesty.
Holy Man of God
By Vance Havner8.7K27:50Men Of God2KI 2:92KI 4:9MAT 5:48MAT 6:331TH 4:13HEB 12:14REV 4:8In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the secret of someone's strength and influence over others. He emphasizes the importance of love and its impact on our lives. The speaker shares his personal experience of being moved by the words of the Bible, specifically from the 15th chapter of the First Corinthians. He encourages the audience to go the extra mile in prayer, Bible study, and communion with God. The sermon also includes anecdotes about mountain preachers and their passionate question, "How far have you gone?" to challenge listeners to evaluate their commitment to their faith.
Be Ye Holy for I Am Holy
By Keith Daniel7.6K1:13:04Practical HolinessROM 12:22CO 6:17EPH 5:81TH 5:23HEB 12:141PE 1:141PE 4:1In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of being transformed and renewed in our minds to align with God's will. He quotes from 1 Peter 1:14, urging believers to be obedient children and not conform to their former lusts. The preacher emphasizes that holiness is a personal choice and not influenced by external factors such as peer pressure or societal corruption. He shares a personal story about a man who was burdened by the moral decay in society and eventually preached at a convention, moving the young people to tears. The sermon highlights the need for believers to maintain their holiness and not compromise their faith.
God's Neibourhood
By Jim Cymbala4.8K37:49Christian LifePSA 22:3PSA 22:27PRO 16:18ISA 57:15MAT 6:33HEB 12:14JAS 4:10In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of setting our minds, hearts, and affections on eternal things where God dwells. They highlight the contrast between the value of earthly things and the value of heavenly things. The speaker encourages the audience to live according to what God deems important rather than what the world says is important. They use the example of a security person named Willie to illustrate the idea that living near God is far more significant than living near a famous person. The sermon also emphasizes the need for praise and adoration of God, as seen in the eternal setting described in the book of Revelation. The speaker urges the audience to praise God at all times and give thanks in every season. Additionally, the sermon emphasizes the importance of having a contrite and humble heart in order to dwell with God. The speaker concludes by reminding the audience that God inhabits eternity, the high and holy place, and dwells with those who have a contrite and humble heart.
The Holiness of God - Part 3
By A.W. Tozer4.8K17:20Holiness Of GodGEN 18:25EXO 33:20ISA 6:3MAT 6:33ACT 13:2ROM 8:26HEB 12:14In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of holiness and the need for individuals to give account of their deeds before God. He highlights the urgency of seeking forgiveness and confessing one's sins, as God is a consuming fire. The preacher laments the lack of reverence for God in modern times and criticizes interpretations that downplay the significance of holiness. He urges listeners to have a deep understanding of the overwhelming holiness of God and to approach Him with a sense of awe and conviction.
Fourfold Challenge to Holiness
By Alan Redpath3.5K32:23HolinessLEV 11:44MAT 6:33ROM 7:24ROM 8:291CO 1:30EPH 1:4HEB 12:14In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of holiness in the lives of believers. He references Ephesians 1:4, which states that believers are chosen in Christ to be holy. He also discusses the resistance to holiness, using Romans 7:24 to highlight the struggle that believers face in overcoming sin. The speaker then points to 1 Corinthians 1:30, which describes Christ as the source of wisdom, righteousness, sanctification, and redemption. He concludes by expressing his longing for a Holy Spirit revival in the church, as he believes that this is the only alternative to the ruin of Western civilization or the imminent return of Christ.
The Unhindered Gospel
By David Wilkerson2.7K52:19PRO 17:15MAT 4:23JHN 6:53ACT 20:26ACT 23:112CO 6:1HEB 12:14In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of preaching the full Gospel, which includes repentance, holiness, and the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross. He highlights the contrast between Jesus' ministry of miracles and provision, and the day when he spoke about eating his flesh and drinking his blood, emphasizing the deeper spiritual meaning behind his words. The preacher also discusses the challenges faced by believers in a world that is turning apostate, and the need for Christians to prioritize the needs of the body of Christ over personal gain. He concludes by highlighting the hindrances to the Gospel, such as false cults, persecution, and opposition, and the example of Paul as a faithful servant of God despite these obstacles.
Where Are the Elijahs of God
By Leonard Ravenhill2.7K1:14:32ProphetsGEN 4:17LEV 1:3LEV 1:81KI 17:21KI 18:1HEB 12:14JAS 5:16In this sermon, the preacher talks about a man who lived a remarkable life despite not having any money or support. This man was able to subdue kingdoms and bring righteousness through his prayers. The preacher emphasizes the importance of prayer in the life of a believer, citing the example of this man who prayed consistently. The preacher also highlights the need for believers to have a passion and vision for God, even if it means facing opposition or imprisonment.
(Bible Analysis of Man) Man in the Bible - Part 2
By Willie Mullan2.6K1:01:54Bible Analysis Of ManGEN 1:26PSA 78:6ROM 10:132CO 5:17HEB 12:14REV 1:5In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the concept of new creation and the transformation that takes place within individuals. He highlights the importance of love and how it can change one's perspective towards others. The sermon also delves into the different stages of man, including the created man, fallen man, second man, saved man, and carnal man. The preacher then focuses on dissecting the conscience of man and how it relates to God's message and the belief in Him. The sermon references Genesis chapter one and discusses the significance of God creating man in His own image.
Powerful Quotes From Leonard Ravenhill
By Leonard Ravenhill2.5K14:59MAT 7:13MAT 16:24ROM 12:22CO 5:17GAL 2:20HEB 12:14JAS 4:81PE 1:151JN 1:9REV 3:16This sermon by Leonard Ravenhill challenges the modern church to reevaluate its priorities and return to a genuine, transformative relationship with God. It emphasizes the need for true repentance, prayer, and a deep concern for holiness and eternity. Ravenhill highlights the contrast between the lukewarm Christianity of today and the radical commitment required by true discipleship, urging believers to seek a life that glorifies God and reflects His transformative power.
In the Image of God
By Keith Daniel2.5K1:16:31Image Of GodGEN 1:26PSA 119:11MAT 6:33ROM 8:292CO 3:18HEB 12:141PE 1:16In this sermon, the speaker shares a powerful testimony of a man named Ellis Govan who had a life-changing encounter with a Christlike man named Will McFarlane. Despite initially feeling angry and resistant towards McFarlane, Govan's heart melted as he observed McFarlane's Christlike character and heard him speak. This encounter led Govan to cry out to God to make him holy, as he realized that holiness was attainable even for a young man. The speaker emphasizes the impact of a Christlike life, stating that it is the greatest message God has on earth and that it can deeply affect and transform others.
Lukewarm Church (Compilation)
By Compilations2.4K19:01CompilationMAT 3:7MAT 16:2HEB 12:14In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the need for revival in America. He compares the spiritual state of the nation to being spiritually fat and lacking holiness and purity. He criticizes the focus on material wealth and the idolization of money, television, and sports. The preacher warns that judgment will come upon America if there is no revival, and urges the people of God to repent and turn away from their sinful ways. He believes that revival will come amidst great judgments, and emphasizes that judgment begins at the house of God.
a.w. Tozer Audio Prayers - Part 1,2
By A.W. Tozer2.4K12:02LUK 1:35ROM 12:2PHP 3:13COL 3:1HEB 12:1HEB 12:14JAS 4:71PE 1:161JN 1:9This sermon is a prayerful plea for holiness, repentance, and spiritual transformation. It emphasizes the need to surrender negative thoughts and hindrances to the Holy Spirit, seeking purification and obedience. The congregation is urged to turn away from worldly distractions and focus on Jesus Christ, the source of everlasting life and peace. The speaker prays for spiritual growth, humility, and a deepening faith in Christ, culminating in a call to embrace the urgency of following Jesus wholeheartedly.
Worship - Then Prayer - Part 1
By Leonard Ravenhill2.2K1:02:08WorshipPRO 28:1MAT 6:33ACT 26:18EPH 4:112TI 3:16HEB 12:14JAS 5:14In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of prophets as God's gift to humanity, especially in times of crisis. He highlights that the world is currently in a crisis and the only way out is through a divine invasion. The preacher also discusses the need for evangelism, stating that there are billions of people who have never heard the name of Jesus. He shares the story of a man who received a divine commission to preach and heal, despite facing setbacks and opposition. The sermon concludes with a reminder of the importance of holiness and the need to walk in sanctification.
So Great a Salvation - Part 1 (Compilation)
By Compilations2.1K18:27CompilationMAT 5:48MAT 7:21ROM 6:6ROM 8:131CO 10:13HEB 12:141PE 1:16In this sermon, the preacher addresses the issue of why people often fall short in their spiritual journey and fail to overcome sin. He questions why many who attend crusades or church events do not experience lasting transformation. The preacher emphasizes the importance of understanding the true meaning of being emancipated through Jesus Christ's sacrifice. He highlights the need for holiness and how it is lacking in many believers' lives. The sermon also touches on the role of conscience in convicting individuals of wrongdoing and the power of Jesus' sacrifice to set people free.
The Great Cost of Unbelief - Part 10
By W.F. Kumuyi2.1K07:04JER 32:17LUK 18:272CO 5:17EPH 5:8PHP 2:51TH 5:23HEB 12:141PE 1:15This sermon emphasizes the power of God to transform lives, bring people back from sin, and prepare them for righteousness. It encourages believers to trust in God's ability to save, sanctify, and purify, leading to a life of holiness and dedication to the Lord. The message highlights the importance of faith, belief in God's promises, and the transformation that comes from surrendering to His will.
The Mantle of Elijah - Part 2
By David Wilkerson2.1K30:122KI 2:92KI 2:21PSA 51:10MAT 5:8ACT 1:81CO 2:4EPH 5:26HEB 12:14JAS 4:8This sermon delves into the story of Elijah and Elisha, highlighting the need for a double portion of the Holy Spirit to face the challenges of a wicked society and a dead church. It emphasizes the importance of not being satisfied with past miracles but seeking a fresh touch from God to bring healing and revival. The message underscores the necessity of purity in preaching the gospel and the power of being shut in with God to receive a new anointing for ministry.
Our Kingdom Is Not of This World
By Zac Poonen2.1K1:02:35Kingdom Of GodMAT 6:332CO 6:17HEB 12:14REV 18:4In this sermon, the speaker discusses the story of Abraham and how God tested him. The speaker emphasizes that when God gives a surprise test, He doesn't reveal it after the test is over, but rather during the test. The speaker highlights how Abraham gave up something profitable and obediently followed God's instructions, resulting in God promising him and his descendants an abundant land. The speaker also emphasizes the importance of prioritizing love, forgiveness, and seeking peace over material possessions, as these are the things that will truly matter in eternity.
Few Find the Way to Life
By Zac Poonen2.1K57:22Narrow WayMAT 7:13MAT 24:35MRK 8:38HEB 12:14REV 3:5REV 7:14REV 14:1In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of striving and putting total attention into following the words of Jesus. He criticizes the current state of preaching, stating that many preachers do not emphasize the need to strive for salvation. The preacher highlights the significance of our daily decisions, comparing them to sowing seeds in a vineyard. He warns against making careless decisions like Esau, who traded his birthright for a single meal. The sermon encourages listeners to be mindful of their choices and to seek fellowship with humble believers.
An Alarm to the Unconverted 1 of 5
By Joseph Alleine2.0K1:21:51Audio BooksPSA 2:12PSA 119:93PRO 1:23PRO 6:21TIT 2:12HEB 12:14JAS 4:8In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the transformation that occurs in a person's heart when they become a true follower of Christ. The sermon highlights the change in desires and priorities that takes place, as the individual's love for worldly things is replaced with a love for God's ways. The preacher references the example of David, who once sought worldly goods but now praises God's laws and seeks His presence. The sermon also addresses the importance of conversion, explaining what it means and why it is necessary for salvation. The preacher warns against complacency and urges listeners to seek the Lord and embrace His mercy.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Follow peace with all men - Cultivate, as far as you possibly can, a good understanding, both with Jews and Gentiles. Ειρηνην διωκετε, pursue peace with the same care, attention, and diligence, as beasts do their game; follow it through all places; trace it through all winding circumstances; and have it with all men, if you can with a safe conscience. And holiness - Τον ἁγιασμον· That state of continual sanctification, that life of purity and detachment from the world and all its lusts, without which detachment and sanctity no man shall see the Lord - shall never enjoy his presence in the world of blessedness. To see God, in the Hebrew phrase, is to enjoy him; and without holiness of heart and life this is impossible. No soul can be fit for heaven that has not suitable dispositions for the place.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
follow peace with all men--with the brethren especially (Rom 14:19), that so the "lame" among them be not "turned out of the way" (Heb 12:13), and that no one of them "fail of the grace of God" (Heb 12:15). holiness--a distinct Greek word from God's "holiness" (Heb 12:10). Translate here "sanctification." His is absolute holiness: our part is to put on His holiness, becoming "holy as He is holy," by sanctification. While "following peace with all men," we are not so to seek to please them, as to make God's will and our sanctification a secondary object; this latter must be our first aim. (Gal 1:10). without which--Greek, "apart from which." no man shall see the Lord--no man as a son; in heavenly glory (Rev 22:3-4). In the East, none but the greatest favorites are admitted to the honor of seeing the king (compare Sa2 14:24). The Lord being pure and holy, none but the pure and holy shall see Him (Mat 5:8). Without holiness in them, they could not enjoy Him who is holiness itself (Zac 14:20). The connection of purity with seeing the Lord, appears in Jo1 3:2-3; Eph 5:5. Contrast Heb 12:16 (compare Th1 4:3). In Mat 24:30; Rev 1:7, it is said that all shall see the Lord; but, that shall be as a Judge, not as their lasting portion and God, which is meant here. The Greek verb does not denote the mere action of seeing, but the seer's state of mind to which the object is presented: so in Mat 5:8 they shall truly comprehend God [TITTMANN]. None but the holy could appreciate the holy God, none else therefore shall abide in His presence. "The bad shall only see Him in His form as Son of man [compare Rev 1:13, with Rev 1:7; and Mat 24:30; Act 1:11; Act 17:31]; still it will be in the glory in which He shall judge, not in the lowliness in which He was judged. His form as God, wherein He is equal to the Father, without doubt the ungodly shall not see; for it is only 'the pure in heart who shall see God'" [AUGUSTINE]. "He shall come to judge, who stood before a judge. He shall come in the form in which He was judged, that they may see Him whom they pierced: He who was before hidden shall come manifested in power: He, as Judge, shall condemn the real culprits, who was Himself falsely made a culprit."
John Gill Bible Commentary
Looking diligently,.... Acting the part of bishops, or overseers, as the word signifies; and so this exhortation either respects officers of the church of the Hebrews, whose business it was more especially to inspect into the principles and practices of the members of it, and take care that they did not imbibe false doctrines, or live immoral lives; or rather the several members of the church, whose business it is to watch over one another, since this epistle seems to be written to the whole church. Lest any man fail of the grace of God; not the free favour and love of God in Christ, which is everlasting, unchangeable, and from whence there is no separation; nor the grace of God implanted in the heart in regeneration, which is incorruptible, never failing, but always remains, as do faith, hope, and love; but either the whole doctrine of the Gospel, which is a declaration of the grace of God; or particularly the doctrine of free justification by the righteousness of Christ, which men may receive in vain, and fall from, Co2 6:1 to which these Hebrews might be prone: and such "fail" of it, who either come short of it, do not come up to it, receive and embrace it; or who having professed it, drop it and deny it: now such should be looked after, and such a case should be diligently looked into; because the glory of God, the honour of Christ, the good of souls, and the well being, and even the continuance of the church state are concerned: lest any root of bitterness springing up trouble you, and thereby many be defiled; the Alexandrian copy reads , "the many", the common people, the private members of the church; though it may intend either things or persons: it may design things; and these either the corruption of nature in general, which is a root that lies hidden in a man's heart; and is a root or gall of bitterness; and is apt to spring up, and bring forth bitter fruit, and gives trouble both to a man's self and others; and is of a defiling nature, in particular sins; such as malice, strife, and contention, covetousness, lust, pride, oppression, idleness, &c. which make bitter work, and occasion great trouble in churches, oftentimes: or errors and heresies, which sometimes, like roots, lie under ground, secret and undiscovered; and are bitter ones in their effects, bringing ruin and swift destruction on the souls of men; and these sometimes spring up in churches, while ministers and members are asleep, or not so diligent and watchful as they should be; and occasion great trouble, and are very infectious, and defiling: moreover, persons may be designed; which agrees well with Deu 29:18 from whence this phrase is taken; and with the instance in the following verse, such as all immoral persons, and false teachers, particularly self-justiciaries, that preach the doctrine of justification by the works of the law: this was the capital mistake, and rooted error of the Jewish nation; and a bitter one it was; it produced many bitter fruits of pride and vain glory; and this sprung up in the church, and troubled and defiled many there and elsewhere, being spread by the abettors of it; see Act 15:24. Now, care should be taken, that no such person be in churches, holding such an error; because of the glory of God, Father, Son, and Spirit; the comfort of souls; the peace of the church, and the growth and increase of it, which must be hurt by such men and doctrines; so , "a sinful root", is used for a "wicked man", in the Apocrypha: "In those days went there out of Israel wicked men, who persuaded many, saying, Let us go and make a covenant with the heathen that are round about us: for since we departed from them we have had much sorrow.'' (1 Maccabees 1:11) and , "a root of bitterness", signifies, in Jewish writings (u), an error, or heresy, in opposition to a root of faith, or a fundamental doctrine. (u) Cosri, Orat. 1. fol. 35. 1.