- Home
- Bible
- Hebrews
- Chapter 12
- Verse 12
Hebrews 12:16
Verse
Context
A Call to Holiness
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.17For you know that afterward, when he wanted to inherit the blessing, he was rejected. He could find no ground for repentance, though he sought the blessing with tears.
Sermons
Paul Ravenhill
Peter Orasuk
Joshua Daniel
Lou Sutera
F.B. Meyer
William MacDonaldSummary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Lest there be any fornicator - Any licentious person who would turn the Gospel of the grace of God into lasciviousness. Or profane person, as Esau - It is not intimated that Esau was a fornicator; and the disjunctive η, or, separates the profane person from the fornicator. And Esau is here termed profane, because he so far disregarded the spiritual advantages connected with his rights of primogeniture, that he alienated the whole for a single mess of pottage. See the note on Gen 25:34. The word βεβηλος, which we translate profane, is compounded of βε, which in composition has a negative signification, and βηλος, the threshold of a temple or sacred edifice; and was applied to those who were not initiated into the sacred mysteries, or who were despisers of sacred things, and consequently were to be denied admittance to the temple, and were not permitted to assist at holy rites. Indeed, among the Greeks βεβηλος signified any thing or person which was not consecrated to the gods. Hence, in the opening of their worship, they were accustomed to proclaim, Procul, O procul, este profani! Virg. "Hence! O hence! ye profane." And, Odi profanum vulgus, et arceo. Hor. "I abominate the profane vulgar, and drive them from the temple." The Latin profanus, from which we have our word, is compounded of procul a fano, "far from the temple," properly an irreligious man. Sold his birthright - The first-born, in patriarchal times, 1. Had a right to the priesthood, Exo 22:29. 2. And a double portion of all the father's possessions, Deu 21:17. 3. And was lord over his brethren, Gen 27:29, Gen 27:37; Gen 49:3. 4. And in the family of Abraham the first-born was the very source whence the Messiah as the Redeemer of the world, and the Church of God, were to spring. Farther, 5. The first-born had the right of conveying especial blessings and privileges when he came to die. See the case of Isaac and his two sons, Jacob and Esau, in the history to which the apostle alludes, Genesis 27; and that of Jacob and his twelve sons, Genesis 49; In short, the rights of primogeniture were among the most noble, honorable, and spiritual in the ancient world.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
fornicator-- (Heb 13:4; Co1 10:8). or profane--Fornication is nearly akin to gluttony, Esau's sin. He profanely cast away his spiritual privilege for the gratification of his palate. Gen 25:34 graphically portrays him. An example well fitted to strike needful horror into the Hebrews, whosoever of them, like Esau, were only sons of Isaac according to the flesh [BENGEL]. for one morsel--The smallness of the inducement only aggravates the guilt of casting away eternity for such a trifle, so far is it from being a claim for mercy (compare Gen 3:6). One single act has often the greatest power either for good or for evil. So in the cases of Reuben and Saul, for evil (Gen 49:4; Ch1 5:1; Sa1 13:12-14); and, on the other hand, for good, Abraham and Phinehas (Gen 12:1, &c.; Gen 15:5-6; Num 25:6-15). his birthright--Greek, "his own (so the oldest manuscripts read, intensifying the suicidal folly and sin of the act) rights of primogeniture," involving the high spiritual privilege of being ancestor of the promised seed, and heir of the promises in Him. The Hebrews whom Paul addressed, had, as Christians, the spiritual rights of primogeniture (compare Heb 12:23): he intimates that they must exercise holy self-control, if they wish not, like Esau, to forfeit them.
John Gill Bible Commentary
For ye know how that afterwards,.... After he had had his pottage; after he had sold his birthright for it, and the blessing with it; after his father had blessed Jacob: this the apostle relates to the Hebrews, as a thing well known to them; they having read the books of Moses, and being conversant with them, in which the whole history of this affair is recorded: how that when he would have inherited the blessing, he was rejected; by his father, who refused to give him the blessing, but confirmed what he had given to Jacob; and also by God, he being the object of his hatred; concerning whom he had said, even before his birth, the elder shall serve the younger, Rom 9:11, for he found no place of repentance, though he sought it carefully with tears, Gen 27:34 though he was very solicitous for the blessing, and shed many tears to obtain it, yet he had no true repentance for his sin in soiling the birthright. Tears are not an infallible sign of repentance: men may be more concerned for the loss and mischief that come by sin, than for the evil that is in it; and such repentance is not sincere; it does not spring from love to God, or a concern for his glory; nor does it bring forth proper fruits: or rather, the sense of the words is, that notwithstanding all his solicitude, importunity, and tears, he found no place of repentance in his father Isaac; he could not prevail upon him to change his mind; to revoke the blessing he had bestowed on Jacob, and confer it on him, Gen 27:33 for he plainly saw it was the mind of God, that the blessing should be where it was; whose counsel shall stand, and he will do all his pleasure. This latter seems to be the better interpretation of the words, though the former agrees with the Targum on Job 15:20 "all the days of Esau the ungodly, they expected that he would have repented, but he repented not.''
Tyndale Open Study Notes
12:16 Ancient Jewish literature describes Esau as sexually immoral because he was married to the Hittite women Judith and Basemath (Gen 26:34; see Jubilees 25:1; Philo, On the Virtues 208). • Esau’s lack of regard for his birthright (Gen 25:29-34) was godless. His willingness to give up God’s blessings for immediate satisfaction illustrates the opposite of faith.
Hebrews 12:16
A Call to Holiness
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.17For you know that afterward, when he wanted to inherit the blessing, he was rejected. He could find no ground for repentance, though he sought the blessing with tears.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Jacob and Esau
By Paul Ravenhill1.3K1:19:47GEN 25:24PSA 22:7JER 15:19EZK 37:9MAT 6:33LUK 19:44HEB 12:16In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of separating the precious from the vile in order to experience true life. He discusses the power of atmosphere and how it can influence our beliefs and perceptions. The preacher also highlights the need for spiritual nourishment in the church, comparing it to a dog coming in from the field and asking to be fed. He warns against being too focused on earthly matters and missing the day of visitation from God. The sermon concludes with a plea to not be cast away and to hold onto the spiritual heritage and blessings from God.
How Do You Value Your Soul
By Peter Orasuk1.1K24:13SoulMAT 6:33MRK 8:36JHN 3:16ACT 16:31ROM 6:23HEB 12:16In this sermon, the preacher discusses the concept of the Three Bitters. He describes how the world offers temporary fame and pleasure, but ultimately leaves individuals empty. Satan also tempts people with the pleasures of sin, but again, this leads to emptiness. However, the Son of God offers the highest bid for our souls, offering eternal joy, a home in heaven, and the Father's love. The preacher emphasizes the importance of choosing Christ over the temporary pleasures of the world.
The Profit Motive - Part 1
By Joshua Daniel1.0K25:16GEN 25:32ISA 55:2MAT 6:19MAT 10:36MAT 16:26MRK 8:36ROM 8:17PHP 3:8HEB 12:161PE 1:4
This sermon delves into the concept of the profit motive and the story of Esau trading his birthright for a bowl of pottage, highlighting the temptation to prioritize immediate gains over eternal blessings. It emphasizes the value of faith heritage and the danger of undervaluing spiritual blessings for temporary satisfaction. The speaker urges against falling into the trap of worldly gains at the expense of losing out on the priceless salvation and empowerment offered by God.
When Falsely Accused and Unjustly Used
By Lou Sutera3421:01:50AccusationISA 53:5ISA 53:7PHP 3:10HEB 12:161PE 3:91PE 4:81PE 4:13In this sermon, the speaker shares a powerful story about a young man who forgave his mother after seven years of estrangement. The young man's forgiving spirit allowed God to minister to his mother, who became a Christian that day. The speaker emphasizes the importance of forgiveness, stating that we are most like God when we forgive. He also discusses the concept of rendering blessing for evil and railing, highlighting the need for fervent love and covering the multitude of sins. The sermon addresses the impact of bitterness and defilement in families, using examples of young people who have been affected by divorce and desertion.
Littered With Castaways!
By F.B. Meyer0Spiritual BirthrightSelf-ExaminationHEB 12:16F.B. Meyer delivers a poignant sermon on the dangers of despising one's spiritual birthright, using the examples of Esau and Saul to illustrate how yielding to temptation and partial obedience can lead to being cast away from God's service. He emphasizes the importance of self-examination and the need for believers to confront their appetites and hidden sins that may hinder their relationship with God. Meyer urges the congregation to seek God's forgiveness and restoration, warning that even those in ministry can become castaways if they do not fully surrender to God's will. He calls for a deep introspection to ensure that one's life is not choked by unconfessed sin, which can block the flow of God's grace. Ultimately, Meyer encourages a return to fervent prayer and reliance on the Holy Spirit to avoid the fate of being a castaway.
A Mess of Pottage
By William MacDonald0Value of Spiritual HeritageTemptationGEN 25:29HEB 12:16William MacDonald emphasizes the peril of trading lasting spiritual values for fleeting physical desires, using the story of Esau who sold his birthright for a bowl of soup. He illustrates how momentary gratification can lead to devastating consequences, as seen in the life of a believer who, in a moment of temptation, sacrifices their integrity and testimony for temporary pleasure. This exchange not only affects their relationship with God but also tarnishes their legacy and the respect of their community. MacDonald warns that such choices can lead to a lifetime of regret and calamity, echoing the biblical truth that one can lose much for the sake of immediate satisfaction.
On Arguing Concerning the Apostolical Succession. on Reluctance to Confess the Apostolical Succession
By J.H. Newman0JDG 8:23MAT 23:231CO 1:251TI 5:22HEB 12:16J.H. Newman preaches about the importance of upholding the Apostolic Succession in the Church, emphasizing the duty to carefully examine and understand this doctrine, even if faced with doubts or ridicule, as it may involve a significant talent entrusted by God. He warns against the temptation to dismiss or downplay this doctrine due to fear of controversy or desire to focus on what is perceived as more essential, reminding that all aspects of the Gospel are important and should not be neglected.
Genesis 25:1-34
By John Calvin0GEN 25:1ROM 9:10HEB 12:16John Calvin preaches on the story of Abraham, Keturah, Isaac, Ishmael, Esau, and Jacob, highlighting the complexities of human nature, divine election, and the consequences of prioritizing earthly desires over spiritual blessings. He delves into the struggles within families, the importance of faith over works, and the sovereignty of God in choosing His elect for salvation, emphasizing the need for humility, perseverance in prayer, and reliance on God's grace.
Pottage for Birthright
By E.A. Adeboye0GEN 25:29PRO 6:26GAL 5:22HEB 12:16JAS 1:15JAS 4:71PE 5:8E.A. Adeboye emphasizes the importance of making decisions with consideration of their consequences, drawing examples from Scripture like Eve's disobedience leading to the fall of humanity. Esau's impulsive decision to trade his birthright for a meal showcases the long-term impact of immediate gratification. Adeboye warns against yielding to temptations that can have lasting negative effects, urging listeners to resist the devil's schemes and seek strength through God's Word to overcome.
Believe Just Now
By Horatius Bonar0MAT 6:19JHN 4:32JHN 6:27ROM 14:17HEB 12:16The preacher delves into the meaning of 'rust' (brosis) in the Bible, which refers to the act of partaking of food and can also symbolize erosion or corrosion. Jesus uses 'brosis' figuratively to represent spiritual food and nourishment, emphasizing the importance of seeking eternal sustenance over temporary pleasures. The sermon highlights the destructive nature of earthly treasures that can be consumed by 'moth and rust,' urging believers to focus on storing treasures in heaven. It also emphasizes that the kingdom of God is not about external regulations but eternal realities like righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit.
Incarnation - the Humiliation of God
By George Warnock01TI 1:91TI 4:71TI 6:202TI 2:16HEB 12:16Greek Word Studies, in a sermon on 1 Timothy 4:7, delves into the meaning of 'bebelos,' which refers to that which is profane, worldly, and devoid of anything sacred or holy. This term describes fables that contradict the truth of God's Word and signifies a lack of connection or relation to God. Paul uses 'bebelos' to highlight behaviors and teachings that are contrary to sound doctrine and lead to ungodliness, emphasizing the importance of guarding against such worldly influences.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Lest there be any fornicator - Any licentious person who would turn the Gospel of the grace of God into lasciviousness. Or profane person, as Esau - It is not intimated that Esau was a fornicator; and the disjunctive η, or, separates the profane person from the fornicator. And Esau is here termed profane, because he so far disregarded the spiritual advantages connected with his rights of primogeniture, that he alienated the whole for a single mess of pottage. See the note on Gen 25:34. The word βεβηλος, which we translate profane, is compounded of βε, which in composition has a negative signification, and βηλος, the threshold of a temple or sacred edifice; and was applied to those who were not initiated into the sacred mysteries, or who were despisers of sacred things, and consequently were to be denied admittance to the temple, and were not permitted to assist at holy rites. Indeed, among the Greeks βεβηλος signified any thing or person which was not consecrated to the gods. Hence, in the opening of their worship, they were accustomed to proclaim, Procul, O procul, este profani! Virg. "Hence! O hence! ye profane." And, Odi profanum vulgus, et arceo. Hor. "I abominate the profane vulgar, and drive them from the temple." The Latin profanus, from which we have our word, is compounded of procul a fano, "far from the temple," properly an irreligious man. Sold his birthright - The first-born, in patriarchal times, 1. Had a right to the priesthood, Exo 22:29. 2. And a double portion of all the father's possessions, Deu 21:17. 3. And was lord over his brethren, Gen 27:29, Gen 27:37; Gen 49:3. 4. And in the family of Abraham the first-born was the very source whence the Messiah as the Redeemer of the world, and the Church of God, were to spring. Farther, 5. The first-born had the right of conveying especial blessings and privileges when he came to die. See the case of Isaac and his two sons, Jacob and Esau, in the history to which the apostle alludes, Genesis 27; and that of Jacob and his twelve sons, Genesis 49; In short, the rights of primogeniture were among the most noble, honorable, and spiritual in the ancient world.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
fornicator-- (Heb 13:4; Co1 10:8). or profane--Fornication is nearly akin to gluttony, Esau's sin. He profanely cast away his spiritual privilege for the gratification of his palate. Gen 25:34 graphically portrays him. An example well fitted to strike needful horror into the Hebrews, whosoever of them, like Esau, were only sons of Isaac according to the flesh [BENGEL]. for one morsel--The smallness of the inducement only aggravates the guilt of casting away eternity for such a trifle, so far is it from being a claim for mercy (compare Gen 3:6). One single act has often the greatest power either for good or for evil. So in the cases of Reuben and Saul, for evil (Gen 49:4; Ch1 5:1; Sa1 13:12-14); and, on the other hand, for good, Abraham and Phinehas (Gen 12:1, &c.; Gen 15:5-6; Num 25:6-15). his birthright--Greek, "his own (so the oldest manuscripts read, intensifying the suicidal folly and sin of the act) rights of primogeniture," involving the high spiritual privilege of being ancestor of the promised seed, and heir of the promises in Him. The Hebrews whom Paul addressed, had, as Christians, the spiritual rights of primogeniture (compare Heb 12:23): he intimates that they must exercise holy self-control, if they wish not, like Esau, to forfeit them.
John Gill Bible Commentary
For ye know how that afterwards,.... After he had had his pottage; after he had sold his birthright for it, and the blessing with it; after his father had blessed Jacob: this the apostle relates to the Hebrews, as a thing well known to them; they having read the books of Moses, and being conversant with them, in which the whole history of this affair is recorded: how that when he would have inherited the blessing, he was rejected; by his father, who refused to give him the blessing, but confirmed what he had given to Jacob; and also by God, he being the object of his hatred; concerning whom he had said, even before his birth, the elder shall serve the younger, Rom 9:11, for he found no place of repentance, though he sought it carefully with tears, Gen 27:34 though he was very solicitous for the blessing, and shed many tears to obtain it, yet he had no true repentance for his sin in soiling the birthright. Tears are not an infallible sign of repentance: men may be more concerned for the loss and mischief that come by sin, than for the evil that is in it; and such repentance is not sincere; it does not spring from love to God, or a concern for his glory; nor does it bring forth proper fruits: or rather, the sense of the words is, that notwithstanding all his solicitude, importunity, and tears, he found no place of repentance in his father Isaac; he could not prevail upon him to change his mind; to revoke the blessing he had bestowed on Jacob, and confer it on him, Gen 27:33 for he plainly saw it was the mind of God, that the blessing should be where it was; whose counsel shall stand, and he will do all his pleasure. This latter seems to be the better interpretation of the words, though the former agrees with the Targum on Job 15:20 "all the days of Esau the ungodly, they expected that he would have repented, but he repented not.''
Tyndale Open Study Notes
12:16 Ancient Jewish literature describes Esau as sexually immoral because he was married to the Hittite women Judith and Basemath (Gen 26:34; see Jubilees 25:1; Philo, On the Virtues 208). • Esau’s lack of regard for his birthright (Gen 25:29-34) was godless. His willingness to give up God’s blessings for immediate satisfaction illustrates the opposite of faith.