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Hebrews 12:15
Verse
Context
A Call to Holiness
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.16See to it that no one is sexually immoral, or is godless like Esau, who for a single meal sold his birthright.
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Looking diligently - Επισκοπουντες· Looking about, over, and upon; being constantly on your guard. Lest any man fail of the grace of God - Μη τις ὑστερων απο της χαριτος του Θεου· Lest any person should come behind, or fall off from, this grace or Gift of God; this state of salvation, viz. the Gospel system or Christianity; for this is most evidently the meaning of the apostle. It is not the falling from a work of grace in their own souls, but from the Gospel, to apostatize from which they had now many temptations; and to guard them against this, the whole epistle was written. Lest any root of bitterness springing up - A root of bitterness signifies a poisonous plant. The Hebrews call every species of poison a bitter, and with considerable propriety, as most plants are poisonous in proportion to the quantum of the bitter principle they possess. The root of bitterness is here used metaphorically for a bad man, or a man holding unsound doctrines, and endeavoring to spread them in the Church. Trouble you - This alludes to the effects of poison taken into the body: the whole animal system is disturbed, sometimes violent retchings, great disturbances through the whole alimentary canal, together with the most fatal changes in the whole sanguineous system, are the consequences of poison taken into the stomach. The blood itself (the principle, under God, of life) becomes putrescent; and probably to this the intelligent apostle alludes when he says, and thereby many be defiled, μιανθωσι, corrupted or contaminated. Bad example and false teaching have corrupted thousands, and are still making desolation in the world and in the Church.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
lest any . . . fall--Greek, "lest any (namely, through sloth in running) failing," or "falling short of the grace of God . . . trouble you." The image is taken from a company of travellers, one of whom lags behind, and so never reaches the end of the long and laborious journey [CHRYSOSTOM]. root of bitterness--not merely a "bitter root," which might possibly bring forth sweet fruits; this, a root whose essence is "bitterness," never could. Paul here refers to Deu 29:18, "Lest there should be among you a root that beareth gall and wormwood" (compare Act 8:23). Root of bitterness comprehends every person (compare Heb 12:16) and every principle of doctrine or practice so radically corrupt as to spread corruption all around. The only safety is in rooting out such a root of bitterness. many--rather, "the many," that is, the whole congregation. So long as it is hidden under the earth it cannot be remedied, but when it "springs up," it must be dealt with boldly. Still remember the caution (Mat 13:26-30) as to rooting out persons. No such danger can arise in rooting out bad principles.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Lest there be any fornicator or profane person,.... The first of these is guilty of a sin against the second table of the law, as well as against his own body; and which is opposed to the holiness the apostle had before exhorted to; such who are guilty of it, are not to be continued in the communion of the church; and it is a sin, which, lived in not repented of, excludes from the kingdom of heaven: the latter is one who is a transgressor of the first table of the law; who is an idolater, a swearer, a despiser of public worship and ordinances, and who behaves irreverently in divine service, and mocks at the future state, as Esau; to whom both these characters seem to belong: and this agrees with what the Jews say concerning him: they have a tradition (w), that he committed five transgressions on the day he came out of the field weary. "He committed idolatry: he shed innocent blood; and lay with a virgin betrothed; and denied the life of the world to come (or a future state); and despised his birthright.'' It is elsewhere (x) a little differently expressed. "Esau, the wicked, committed five transgressions on that day: he lay with a virgin betrothed; and killed a person; and denied the resurrection of the dead; and denied the root, or foundation, (i.e. that there is a God,) and despised his birthright; and besides, he desired his father's death, and sought to slay his brother.'' It is common for them to say of him, that he was an ungodly man; and particularly, that he was a murderer, a robber, "and an adulterer" (y); and that he has no part in the world to come (z): who for one morsel of meat sold his birthright; the account of which is in Gen 25:29 this includes all the privileges which he had a right unto by being the firstborn; as a peculiar blessing from his father; a double portion of goods; and dominion over his brethren: and it is commonly said by the Jews, that the priesthood belonged to the firstborn, before the Levitical dispensation; and that for this reason, Jacob coveted the birthright (a), Esau being a wicked man, and unfit for it. The birthright was reckoned sacred; it was typical of the primogeniture of Christ; of the adoption of saints, and of the heavenly inheritance belonging thereunto; all which were despised by Esau: and so the Jewish paraphrases (b) interpret the contempt of his birthright, a despising of his part in the world to come, and a denial of the resurrection of the dead: and his contempt of it was shown in his selling it; and this was aggravated by his selling it for "one morsel of meat"; which was bread, and pottage of lentiles, Gen 25:34. The Jewish writers speak of this bargain and sale much in the same language as the apostle here does; they say (c) of him, this is the man that sold his birthright , "for a morsel of bread"; and apply to him the passage in Pro 28:21 "for a piece of bread that man will transgress". (w) Targum Jon. ben Uzziel in Gen. xxv. 29. (x) Shemot Rabba, sect. I. fol. 89. 3. T. Bab. Bava Bathra, fol. 16. 2. (y) Tzeror Hammor, fol. 27. 1. (z) Tzeror Hammor, fol. 26. 3. (a) Bereshit Rabba, sect. 63. fol. 56. 2. (b) Targum Hieros. & Jon. in Gen. 25. 34. Bereshit Rabba, ib. (c) Tzeror Hammor, fol. 26. 4. & 27. 1.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
12:15 The poisonous root of bitterness alludes to people turning their backs on God’s covenant to serve other gods (Deut 29:18). Bitterness can corrupt the church.
Hebrews 12:15
A Call to Holiness
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.16See to it that no one is sexually immoral, or is godless like Esau, who for a single meal sold his birthright.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
How to Forgive
By Corrie Ten Boom23K51:26ForgivenessISA 11:9MAT 24:35EPH 4:32EPH 5:18HEB 12:151PE 4:102PE 3:14In this sermon, the pastor encourages the audience to find joy and strength in the knowledge that Jesus will come again and make everything new. He emphasizes that despite the difficulties and suffering we may face in this world, our source of strength is Jesus Christ and His cross. The pastor shares a personal experience of being in a concentration camp and highlights the importance of holding onto Jesus' hand during deep times of struggle. He also mentions a movie called "The Hiding Place" that depicts both the happy moments and the suffering in the concentration camp, reminding the audience that even in the worst circumstances, the best remains. The sermon concludes with the pastor urging the audience to have courage and recognize the signs of the times, as Jesus' return may be imminent.
A Bitter Root
By Jim Cymbala3.2K23:40BitternessEPH 2:8HEB 12:15In this sermon, the preacher addresses the issue of violence and shootings that have occurred in churches in Texas and California. He emphasizes that the root cause of these tragedies is bitterness and offense taken by individuals. The preacher quotes a verse from Hebrews, urging Christians to not fall short of the grace of God and to prevent bitter roots from growing and causing trouble. He highlights the importance of addressing this problem within the church and taking necessary precautions to ensure the safety of congregants while also trusting in the Lord.
Attitudes on Bitterness
By Jim Logan2.1K1:25:47BitternessGEN 45:5GEN 45:7MAT 6:33HEB 12:15In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the story of Joseph from the book of Genesis. Joseph experienced many disappointments and heartaches, including being sold into slavery by his own brothers. However, he did not become bitter because he saw God in control of his life. The speaker emphasizes the importance of recognizing that even when people betray us or things go wrong, God is still in control and can use those situations for our good. The sermon also highlights the biblical principle of responding to our enemies with kindness and meeting their basic needs, as this can lead to transformation in their lives.
The Laughing Ministry (God Is Not Laughing)
By Carter Conlon2.0K08:441SA 15:22MAT 6:241TI 6:10HEB 12:15JAS 4:7This sermon reflects on a pastor who has strayed from the true gospel, once rooted in holiness but now engulfed in confusion and mockery. It questions the causes of his spiritual blindness, whether it be the love of money, bitterness, unforgiveness, or rebellion. The speaker emphasizes the importance of fleeing from worldly desires and following after righteousness, faith, love, and patience.
The Problem of Unbelief
By Bill McLeod1.4K53:37UnbeliefISA 1:25MRK 9:17LUK 24:25HEB 10:23HEB 12:15In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of allowing God to refine and purify us. He references Isaiah 1, where God promises to remove impurities from His people like a refiner purifies gold. The preacher also highlights the need for Christians to reflect the true character of Christ to others, especially to their children. He warns against hypocrisy and encourages believers to be loving, kind, and forgiving. The sermon concludes with a request for prayers for someone named Joe, who is going through a difficult time.
Few Find the Way to Life - Part 1
By Zac Poonen1.4K09:43PRO 4:23MAT 7:13MAT 19:24MRK 10:21LUK 13:24GAL 6:71TI 2:3HEB 12:15JAS 4:8This sermon addresses the phenomenon of mega-churches and questions whether all individuals in these large congregations are truly saved. It emphasizes the importance of personal striving for salvation and highlights the need for individual commitment and repentance, rather than relying solely on the size of a church or the words of a pastor. The message stresses the urgency of entering through the narrow door and making decisions that align with God's will, as each decision sows seeds that will eventually be reaped.
God's Decision vs Man's Decision
By Rolfe Barnard1.2K40:58JHN 20:27HEB 4:11HEB 6:4HEB 10:29HEB 12:15HEB 12:25In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes that the gospel is more than just information about God's saving action in Jesus Christ. It is the proclamation of the facts of Jesus' life, death, resurrection, and ascension, as well as His present reign. The preacher warns of the danger of preaching the gospel as mere information, stressing that it is a message that confronts individuals with God's actions and demands. The sermon also addresses the relationship between God's decision of election and man's responsibility for repentance and faith, cautioning against falling into the extremes of hardshellism or extreme free willism. Overall, the sermon emphasizes the importance of preaching the gospel as the making known of God's saving acts and the exhortation to repentance and faith.
Watch Your Step
By George Verwer1.0K49:41WatchfulnessMAT 28:191TI 3:161TI 4:12HEB 12:15In this sermon, the speaker addresses the challenges and disappointments that long-term, full-time Christian workers may face. He emphasizes the importance of understanding that their expectations of leaders and colleagues may not always align with reality. The speaker also highlights the need for Christian workers to be mindful of their actions, words, and interactions with others, including handling money and dealing with different types of people. He encourages the audience to seek wisdom from above, walk in holiness and integrity, and be obedient to God's guidance in their work.
Are You Prepared for the Judgment Seat of Christ
By David Wilkerson1.0K54:53Judgment SeatJER 29:13MAT 7:24ROM 14:101CO 3:112CO 5:10HEB 9:27HEB 12:15In this sermon, the preacher begins by praying for the listeners to seek Jesus with all their hearts and to be diligent in their pursuit of God. He emphasizes the importance of being prepared for the judgment seat of Christ. The preacher shares an anecdote about a taxi driver who identifies himself as a "son of a living God" and highlights the need for believers to know their identity in Christ. He then discusses the qualifications for standing confidently before the judgment seat of Christ, including not being slothful or lazy in the things of God and being diligent in prayer and the work of God. The sermon concludes with a call to grow in knowledge of Christ and be prepared for the judgment seat.
Lest After I Have Preached to Others I Should Be a Castaway
By Keith Daniel8521:18:29MAT 7:21ROM 12:1EPH 4:14EPH 4:27COL 2:71TI 1:61TI 1:19HEB 12:151PE 5:8This sermon emphasizes the importance of total surrender to God, warning against the dangers of hidden sins, idols, and compromise in the lives of preachers and Christians. It calls for a deep dedication to God, a commitment to daily meditation on His Word, and a vigilant guarding against moral and doctrinal compromise. The speaker urges listeners to steer their roots back to God's Word, good literature, and sound sermons, highlighting the need for a renewed devotion to Christ and a rejection of worldly distractions.
Correction and Reproof
By David Wilkerson75137:57CorrectionPSA 6:1JER 10:10HEB 12:5HEB 12:15In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of not trying to force others into salvation but instead praying for them and showing kindness and meekness. The speaker also highlights the significance of having a Christ-like spirit in the workplace, responding to mistreatment with kindness and not reacting in anger. The sermon then shifts to discussing the concept of chastening from the Lord and how it can be difficult to endure. The speaker encourages the congregation to be a source of encouragement and love to one another, especially during times of grief and failure. The sermon references verses from Hebrews and Psalms to support these teachings.
The Danger of Addictions
By Zac Poonen70030:59GEN 2:7GEN 3:1EZK 16:49MAT 5:28MRK 9:47JHN 20:22GAL 6:7HEB 12:15HEB 12:17This sermon delves into the creation of man in Genesis, highlighting the unique aspects of humanity compared to animals, emphasizing the internal struggle between the spirit and the flesh. It discusses the consequences of yielding to earthly desires versus responding to the upward pull towards God. The speaker warns against justifying sin using Scripture and the progression of addiction leading to severe consequences. The importance of humility, discipline, fasting, and compassion is stressed to avoid falling into destructive patterns.
Lest I Should Be a Castaway
By Keith Daniel5341:15:42PSA 1:1PSA 119:37ECC 10:1MAT 25:23ROM 12:11CO 9:25EPH 4:141TI 1:192TI 1:13TIT 2:7HEB 12:15This sermon emphasizes the importance of surrendering to God and the need for protection against spiritual attacks. It warns against distractions and diversions that can lead to a fall, urging listeners to dedicate themselves fully to God and His Word. The speaker highlights the dangers of moral and doctrinal shipwrecks, urging vigilance and a return to sound doctrine and spiritual grounding.
Corrupted by False Teaching by James Jennings
By James Malachi Jennings34346:58PRO 13:20PRO 22:241CO 15:32CO 7:1HEB 12:15This sermon delves into 1 Corinthians 15, emphasizing the impact of contemplating Christ's sacrifice for our sins on our lives. It warns against false teaching and the corrupting influence of bad company, urging vigilance in discerning and upholding the truth of the Gospel. The speaker highlights the need to reprove error firmly, preach and hold fast to the truth, and surround oneself with companions who pursue holiness and righteousness.
On Eagles' Wings Pt 160
By Don Courville33427:50Radio ShowHAB 3:17ZEP 3:1ZEP 3:5MRK 14:38HEB 12:2HEB 12:15In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of focusing on Jesus and trusting in Him, even in difficult circumstances. He references the story of Peter walking on water and sinking when he took his eyes off Jesus. The preacher also mentions the endurance of Jesus on the cross and encourages the listeners to keep their focus on Him. He shares a passage from Habakkuk that speaks of rejoicing in the Lord despite challenging circumstances. The sermon concludes with a reminder to trust and love God, allowing Him to choose the crosses we bear.
On Eagles' Wings Pt 301
By Don Courville32427:46Radio Show1SA 4:21PSA 97:1PSA 97:101CO 11:31HEB 12:15In this sermon, the speaker shares a personal story about leading a man to Christ after he had been involved in a motorcycle accident. The speaker emphasizes the importance of getting right with Jesus and dealing with sin as the first step in one's life. The sermon also discusses the benefits of understanding the cause and effect sequences in scripture and how it can bring blessings to churches. The speaker concludes by highlighting the need to dig deeper and address the root causes of problems rather than just treating surface symptoms.
On Eagles' Wings Pt 121
By Don Courville32126:58Radio Show2SA 16:9PSA 12:1MAT 6:332CO 5:17HEB 12:15JAS 1:21PE 2:20In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of listening to extraordinary messages from God. He uses the example of David going through a valley of humiliation and choosing to come out victorious. The preacher encourages the audience to have compassion and love for those around them, as many people are empty and in need of Jesus. He also highlights the significance of giving everything to God, just as Abraham did with his son Isaac. The preacher reminds the audience of the responsibility they have to be a vessel for God's message and to live a life dead to sin and self. The sermon concludes with a reminder to love and bless our enemies, as this is evidence of our true sonship with God.
Overcoming Bitterness: Avoiding the Way of Cain (Gen. 4:1-8)
By Mike Bickle271:02:35RepentanceBitternessGEN 4:1HEB 12:15Mike Bickle addresses the issue of bitterness in his sermon 'Overcoming Bitterness: Avoiding the Way of Cain,' emphasizing the importance of diligence in identifying and confronting bitterness in our lives. He uses Cain's story as a cautionary tale, illustrating how unresolved bitterness can lead to emotional, physical, and spiritual turmoil. Bickle encourages listeners to ask the Holy Spirit for insight into any bitterness they may harbor and to actively work against it through gratitude and love, ultimately highlighting the need for repentance and connection with God. He stresses that bitterness not only affects our relationship with God but also impacts our relationships with others, urging a proactive approach to healing and reconciliation.
Seven Deadly Sins Every Christian Should Hate - Part 2 - Bitterness and Unforgiveness
By Phil Beach Jr.2533:35UnforgivenessSinBitternessEPH 4:31HEB 12:15Phil Beach Jr. addresses the second deadly sin of bitterness and unforgiveness, emphasizing its destructive nature within the Christian community. He warns that these sins can lead to spiritual ruin and disrupt relationships, urging believers to seek God's grace to overcome them. Beach highlights the importance of forgiveness as an act of will, motivated by God's love, and encourages the congregation to release others from their offenses to experience true freedom. He reminds listeners that the roots of bitterness can spring up in relationships, and stresses the need for a heart filled with love to combat these negative emotions. Ultimately, he calls for humility and reliance on God's power to heal and restore brokenness caused by unforgiveness.
The Message of Hebrews
By G. Campbell Morgan0ApostasyFaithHEB 1:1HEB 3:12HEB 4:1HEB 6:1HEB 10:22HEB 11:1HEB 12:1HEB 12:15HEB 13:15G. Campbell Morgan emphasizes the profound teachings of Hebrews, focusing on the perfection of God's revelation through the Son, the principle of life by faith, and the peril of apostasy. He explains that the revelation through Christ supersedes all previous forms, meets every human need, and ensures ultimate victory. Morgan defines faith as a volitional surrender that acts despite appearances, contrasting it with apostasy, which leads to disobedience and spiritual death. He warns the church of the dangers of drifting away from God's promises and encourages believers to hold fast to their faith and service. Ultimately, the message calls for a deep understanding of God's sovereignty and the necessity of faith in the believer's life.
Through the Bible - Genesis 37-38
By Chuck Smith0Sibling RivalryGod's SovereigntyGEN 37:1MAT 1:3ROM 8:28HEB 12:15Chuck Smith explores the story of Joseph in Genesis 37-38, focusing on the dynamics of sibling rivalry and the consequences of favoritism within Jacob's family. Joseph, favored by his father, faces hatred from his brothers, leading to his betrayal and sale into slavery. The narrative highlights God's sovereignty in using human flaws and mistakes to fulfill His divine plan, as seen in the lineage of Christ through Judah and Tamar. Smith emphasizes the importance of recognizing God's purpose in our lives, even amidst our imperfections and struggles.
The Form of Sound Words to Be Held Fast.
By John Gill0Faithfulness in MinistrySound DoctrineROM 5:9ROM 10:82CO 5:19GAL 1:9EPH 1:41TI 6:32TI 1:13HEB 12:151PE 1:21JN 5:20John Gill emphasizes the importance of holding fast to the form of sound words as instructed by the Apostle Paul to Timothy. He outlines the essential doctrines that should be preserved, including the Trinity, the everlasting love of God, and the doctrine of justification by faith. Gill encourages ministers to maintain these truths with faith and love, warning against the dangers of deviating from sound doctrine. He stresses that these teachings are foundational for the church and vital for the spiritual health of believers. The charge serves as a reminder for all ministers to be steadfast in their commitment to the gospel.
Persecution Is Inevitable
By Zac Poonen0Spiritual WarfarePersecutionPRO 6:16DAN 11:33JHN 16:33ACT 12:2ROM 12:19EPH 3:17EPH 6:12HEB 12:15REV 13:7Zac Poonen emphasizes that persecution is an inevitable part of the Christian journey, as evidenced by the lives of biblical figures like James, Stephen, and Jesus, who faced severe trials and death for their faith. He highlights that true servants of God will encounter opposition, especially in the last days, and that the church will endure tribulation before Christ's return. Poonen encourages believers to focus on glorifying God and fighting spiritual battles rather than engaging in conflicts with others, reminding them that vengeance belongs to God. He warns against hypocrisy during persecution and stresses the importance of self-examination and repentance to remain rooted in love and faith. Ultimately, he reassures that those who endure and remain faithful will be refined and made pure, fulfilling God's purpose in their lives.
The Dangers of Middle Age
By Samuel Logan Brengle0Renewal of FaithSpiritual VigilanceHEB 12:15Samuel Logan Brengle addresses the often-overlooked dangers faced by middle-aged individuals, emphasizing that they are not immune to the temptations and sins that can lead to spiritual downfall. He recounts the tragic stories of biblical figures like David and Solomon, as well as contemporary examples of fallen leaders, to illustrate the importance of vigilance against the lusts of the flesh. Brengle encourages the middle-aged to maintain their spiritual fervor and to guard against the creeping loss of their early devotion to God. He highlights the need for constant renewal of faith amidst life's burdens and responsibilities, urging believers to find strength and victory through a close relationship with Christ. Ultimately, he calls for a proactive approach to spiritual health, reminding the congregation that true joy and effectiveness come from walking closely with God.
The Bitterness of Sin!
By James Smith0PSA 51:10JER 4:18ROM 6:23HEB 12:151JN 1:9James Smith preaches about the bitterness of sin, emphasizing that sin is not only dangerous but also bitter in nature and effects. Sin is a departure, opposition, and rebellion against God, leading to degradation and suffering. It reaches to the heart, defiling and polluting it, alienating man from God and causing eternal damnation. Smith urges believers to seek deliverance from sin through faith in Jesus and the work of the Holy Spirit, emphasizing the need to be washed, sanctified, and justified in Christ.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Looking diligently - Επισκοπουντες· Looking about, over, and upon; being constantly on your guard. Lest any man fail of the grace of God - Μη τις ὑστερων απο της χαριτος του Θεου· Lest any person should come behind, or fall off from, this grace or Gift of God; this state of salvation, viz. the Gospel system or Christianity; for this is most evidently the meaning of the apostle. It is not the falling from a work of grace in their own souls, but from the Gospel, to apostatize from which they had now many temptations; and to guard them against this, the whole epistle was written. Lest any root of bitterness springing up - A root of bitterness signifies a poisonous plant. The Hebrews call every species of poison a bitter, and with considerable propriety, as most plants are poisonous in proportion to the quantum of the bitter principle they possess. The root of bitterness is here used metaphorically for a bad man, or a man holding unsound doctrines, and endeavoring to spread them in the Church. Trouble you - This alludes to the effects of poison taken into the body: the whole animal system is disturbed, sometimes violent retchings, great disturbances through the whole alimentary canal, together with the most fatal changes in the whole sanguineous system, are the consequences of poison taken into the stomach. The blood itself (the principle, under God, of life) becomes putrescent; and probably to this the intelligent apostle alludes when he says, and thereby many be defiled, μιανθωσι, corrupted or contaminated. Bad example and false teaching have corrupted thousands, and are still making desolation in the world and in the Church.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
lest any . . . fall--Greek, "lest any (namely, through sloth in running) failing," or "falling short of the grace of God . . . trouble you." The image is taken from a company of travellers, one of whom lags behind, and so never reaches the end of the long and laborious journey [CHRYSOSTOM]. root of bitterness--not merely a "bitter root," which might possibly bring forth sweet fruits; this, a root whose essence is "bitterness," never could. Paul here refers to Deu 29:18, "Lest there should be among you a root that beareth gall and wormwood" (compare Act 8:23). Root of bitterness comprehends every person (compare Heb 12:16) and every principle of doctrine or practice so radically corrupt as to spread corruption all around. The only safety is in rooting out such a root of bitterness. many--rather, "the many," that is, the whole congregation. So long as it is hidden under the earth it cannot be remedied, but when it "springs up," it must be dealt with boldly. Still remember the caution (Mat 13:26-30) as to rooting out persons. No such danger can arise in rooting out bad principles.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Lest there be any fornicator or profane person,.... The first of these is guilty of a sin against the second table of the law, as well as against his own body; and which is opposed to the holiness the apostle had before exhorted to; such who are guilty of it, are not to be continued in the communion of the church; and it is a sin, which, lived in not repented of, excludes from the kingdom of heaven: the latter is one who is a transgressor of the first table of the law; who is an idolater, a swearer, a despiser of public worship and ordinances, and who behaves irreverently in divine service, and mocks at the future state, as Esau; to whom both these characters seem to belong: and this agrees with what the Jews say concerning him: they have a tradition (w), that he committed five transgressions on the day he came out of the field weary. "He committed idolatry: he shed innocent blood; and lay with a virgin betrothed; and denied the life of the world to come (or a future state); and despised his birthright.'' It is elsewhere (x) a little differently expressed. "Esau, the wicked, committed five transgressions on that day: he lay with a virgin betrothed; and killed a person; and denied the resurrection of the dead; and denied the root, or foundation, (i.e. that there is a God,) and despised his birthright; and besides, he desired his father's death, and sought to slay his brother.'' It is common for them to say of him, that he was an ungodly man; and particularly, that he was a murderer, a robber, "and an adulterer" (y); and that he has no part in the world to come (z): who for one morsel of meat sold his birthright; the account of which is in Gen 25:29 this includes all the privileges which he had a right unto by being the firstborn; as a peculiar blessing from his father; a double portion of goods; and dominion over his brethren: and it is commonly said by the Jews, that the priesthood belonged to the firstborn, before the Levitical dispensation; and that for this reason, Jacob coveted the birthright (a), Esau being a wicked man, and unfit for it. The birthright was reckoned sacred; it was typical of the primogeniture of Christ; of the adoption of saints, and of the heavenly inheritance belonging thereunto; all which were despised by Esau: and so the Jewish paraphrases (b) interpret the contempt of his birthright, a despising of his part in the world to come, and a denial of the resurrection of the dead: and his contempt of it was shown in his selling it; and this was aggravated by his selling it for "one morsel of meat"; which was bread, and pottage of lentiles, Gen 25:34. The Jewish writers speak of this bargain and sale much in the same language as the apostle here does; they say (c) of him, this is the man that sold his birthright , "for a morsel of bread"; and apply to him the passage in Pro 28:21 "for a piece of bread that man will transgress". (w) Targum Jon. ben Uzziel in Gen. xxv. 29. (x) Shemot Rabba, sect. I. fol. 89. 3. T. Bab. Bava Bathra, fol. 16. 2. (y) Tzeror Hammor, fol. 27. 1. (z) Tzeror Hammor, fol. 26. 3. (a) Bereshit Rabba, sect. 63. fol. 56. 2. (b) Targum Hieros. & Jon. in Gen. 25. 34. Bereshit Rabba, ib. (c) Tzeror Hammor, fol. 26. 4. & 27. 1.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
12:15 The poisonous root of bitterness alludes to people turning their backs on God’s covenant to serve other gods (Deut 29:18). Bitterness can corrupt the church.