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John 12:26
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Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
If any man serve me - Christ is a master in a twofold sense: 1. To instruct men. 2. To employ and appoint them their work. He who wishes to serve Christ must become: 1. His disciple or scholar, that he may be taught: 2. His servant, that he may be employed by and obey his master. To such a person a twofold promise is given: 1. He shall be with Christ, in eternal fellowship with him; and 2. He shall be honored by the Lord: he shall have an abundant recompense in glory; but how great, eye hath not seen, ear heard, nor hath it entered into the heart of man to conceive. How similar to this is the saying of Creeshna (an incarnation of the supreme God, according to the Hindoo theology) to his disciple Arjoon! "If one whose ways were ever so evil serve me alone, he soon becometh of a virtuous spirit, is as respectable as the just man, and obtaineth eternal happiness. Consider this world as a finite and joyless place, and serve me. Be of my mind, my servant, my adorer, and bow down before me. Unite thy soul unto me, make me thy asylum, and thou shalt go unto me." And again: "I am extremely dear to the wise man, and he is dear to me-I esteem the wise man even as myself, because his devout spirit dependeth upon me alone as his ultimate resource." Bhagvat Geeta, pp. 71 and 82. The rabbins have an extravagant saying, viz. "God is more concerned for the honor of the just man than for his own."
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
If any man serve me, let him follow me; and where I am, there shall also my servant be: If any man serve me, him will my Father honour--Jesus here claims the same absolute subjection to Himself, as the law of men's exaltation to honor, as He yielded to the Father.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Now is my soul troubled,.... At the hardness and unbelief of the Jews, and the rejection of them, when the Gentiles would be called, and converted, by which he would be glorified: and at the conduct and carriage of his disciples to him, he had a foreknowledge of; at the betraying of him by one, and the denial of him by another, and the flight of them all from him; and at the devil, and the furious and violent attack he knew he would make upon him, though he had obliged him to leave him, when he assaulted him before, and knew he could find nothing in him now, and that as God, he was able to destroy him; but this was to be done by him, as man, and by lying too: he was in his human soul troubled at the thoughts of his death, though it was his Father's will, and he had agreed to it, and was for the salvation of his people, his heart was so much set upon; yet it was terrible to the human nature, and especially as attended with the wrath of God; at the apprehensions of which, his soul was exceedingly troubled; not as about to fall on him on his own personal account, but as being the surety of his people, and as having their sins upon him to satisfy angry and injured justice for: and what shall I say? this question he puts, as being in the utmost distress, and difficulty, as if he knew not what to say; and yet not as advising with his disciples, what was to be said or done in his case; but is rather used to introduce another question, as the following words may be formed: shall I say, father, save me from this hour? as requesting his Father, that he might be strengthened under his sufferings and death, and carried through them, and out of them; or rather as deprecating them, desiring the cup might pass from him, as he afterwards did; and then the sense is, shall I put up such a petition to my Father, to save me from sorrows, sufferings, and death? no, I will not: the human nature through frailty might prompt him to it, and he be just going to do it, when he corrects himself, saying; but for this cause came I unto this hour: this hour or time of sorrow and suffering was appointed for him; it was fixed in the covenant of grace, and Christ had agreed to it; he was sent into this world, and he came into it, on account of this hour; and was preserved hitherto for this purpose; and was now come to Jerusalem, and was there at this instant, for that very reason, namely, to suffer and die. And since this was the case, he would not put up such a petition to his Father, but the following one.
John 12:26
Jesus Predicts His Death
25Whoever loves his life will lose it, but whoever hates his life in this world will keep it for eternal life.26If anyone serves Me, he must follow Me; and where I am, My servant will be as well. If anyone serves Me, the Father will honor him.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
The Goal of All Preaching
By Zac Poonen1.2K58:35GEN 4:5MAT 5:8MAT 8:10MRK 6:6JHN 12:26JHN 13:35ROM 8:371TI 1:5This sermon emphasizes the importance of having faith, humility, a pure heart, and love in our Christian walk. It highlights the need to trust God completely, maintain a good conscience, seek Him wholeheartedly, and love others sincerely. The goal is to have a heart that is fully devoted to God, free from jealousy, and overflowing with love for others, leading to a life of victory and effective ministry.
More and More
By G.W. North9351:05:53Christian LifeJHN 12:1JHN 12:24JHN 12:26JHN 15:1JHN 15:5JHN 15:8In this sermon, the preacher discusses the theme of love and how it was learned by the disciple John. The preacher emphasizes that Jesus is the ultimate teacher of love, but also highlights that Jesus uses people as a means to teach others. The preacher references the story of Jesus washing the disciples' feet as an example of how Jesus demonstrated love through actions. The sermon encourages the audience to reflect on how they can learn to love like John did, by allowing Jesus to teach them through people and through their own actions.
The Lord's Heart for Spiritual Service - Part 1
By Stephen Kaung7251:12:54EXO 25:40NUM 12:7MAT 6:33JHN 12:26ACT 9:1ROM 12:1HEB 3:5In this sermon, the speaker discusses the story of Moses and his journey of service to God. Moses initially tried to serve God using his own strength and abilities, but he failed. As a result, he spent 40 years in the wilderness shepherding sheep. At the age of 80, Moses encountered a burning bush that was not consumed, and God spoke to him from within it. God revealed His heart to Moses and instructed him to go to Egypt and deliver His people. The speaker emphasizes the importance of having a blueprint or pattern for service, evaluating our present service, and seeking recovery to align with God's will. The sermon also highlights the connection between service and worship, emphasizing that service to God involves an element of worship. The speaker references John 12:26, where Jesus instructs His followers to serve Him and follow Him. The sermon concludes by discussing the theme of the conference, which is spiritual service, and the importance of rethinking our service to align with God's will.
The Lord's Heart for Spiritual Service - Part 2
By Stephen Kaung6641:18:36HAG 1:5JHN 12:26PHP 3:10In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of examining our service to God. He highlights four areas that need to be considered: the nature of our service, the presence of vision, alignment with the heavenly vision, and the outcome of our service. The speaker emphasizes that our service should be rooted in the life of Jesus and not just a mere work. He also emphasizes the need for vision in our service, as it gives purpose, direction, and endurance. The speaker encourages listeners to align their service with the heavenly vision and not just follow traditions. Finally, the speaker emphasizes the importance of considering the outcome of our service and ensuring that it aligns with God's will.
In the Service of the King
By Basilea Schlink63404:35Radio ShowGEN 1:1PSA 139:6MAT 6:33JHN 12:26EPH 3:20PHP 2:9REV 20:6The video is a sermon transcript about the honor and joy of being called into God's service. The speaker, Basilius Schlink, reflects on his own experience of being called by God and the deep satisfaction it brings. He emphasizes that serving God is the ultimate purpose in life and that those who serve Him wholeheartedly will be honored by the Father and will reign with Jesus in the future. The speaker encourages listeners to respond to God's call and surrender their lives to Him, highlighting that the cost of serving God is insignificant compared to the joy and honor it brings.
Rev. 22:3,5. the Serving and the Reigning
By Horatius Bonar0Eternal ReignService to GodJHN 12:26ROM 12:1EPH 2:82TI 2:12HEB 12:1JAS 1:121PE 2:91JN 3:2REV 22:3REV 22:5Horatius Bonar emphasizes the dual role of the redeemed as both servants and kings, based on Revelation 22:3, 5. He explains that service to God begins at conversion and is a lifelong commitment, while the future reign signifies the ultimate victory and dominion believers will have in eternity. Bonar encourages believers to embrace their identity as servants of Christ, highlighting that true freedom and joy come from serving Him. He contrasts the current state of the Church with the glorious future awaiting the faithful, urging them to remain steadfast in their faith and service. The sermon concludes with a call to live in anticipation of the eternal reign that awaits those who overcome.
Heaven Inhabitants
By D.L. Moody0HeavenEternal LifeISA 55:7MAT 8:11MAT 18:10JHN 3:16JHN 12:26ROM 6:231CO 6:92CO 5:11JN 2:28REV 22:2D.L. Moody emphasizes the joy and comfort of knowing that heaven is filled with God and our loved ones, making it a place of ultimate reunion and peace. He reflects on the personal loss of loved ones and how their presence makes home and heaven beautiful, asserting that it is the relationships we cherish that define our experience of both. Moody reassures believers that they will recognize their friends in heaven and that eternal life begins the moment one believes in Christ. He warns against the misconception that all will enter heaven regardless of their lives on earth, stressing the importance of repentance and faith. Ultimately, he paints a picture of heaven as a diverse and welcoming place, filled with joy and healing for all who seek righteousness.
(Living as Jesus Lived) 3. Living in Holiness
By Zac Poonen0GEN 1:31PRO 14:27JHN 12:26ROM 8:31TI 4:81TI 6:16HEB 4:15HEB 10:19HEB 12:10JAS 1:21PE 4:12PE 1:31JN 1:51JN 4:8Zac Poonen preaches on the holiness of God and the call for believers to also walk in holiness. Through the example of Jesus, who faced and overcame every temptation without sin, believers are encouraged to follow His path of obedience and self-denial. Jesus, as our Forerunner, paved the way for us to run the race of faith with endurance, relying on the power of the Holy Spirit to overcome sin and live in victory. The life of Jesus demonstrates that through obedience to God's Word and a life of godliness, believers can partake in the divine nature and experience the joy of walking as Jesus walked.
Hindrances to Holiness -- V
By Catherine Booth0MAT 6:33MAT 13:22JHN 12:26ACT 4:31HEB 3:19Catherine Booth preaches about the hindrances that prevent many from experiencing the full blessing of God's power and presence, emphasizing the need for complete self-abandonment and trust in Divine strength. She highlights the importance of identifying and removing hidden obstacles or sins that hold individuals back from fully surrendering to God. Catherine explains that true surrender involves caring only to please God and obey His will, leading to the outpouring of the Holy Spirit and the experience of God's glory. She challenges listeners to let go of worldly concerns, seek God's kingdom above all else, and trust Him to provide and care for their needs.
Daily Following
By A.W. Tozer0The CrossDiscipleshipMAT 16:24LUK 9:23JHN 12:26ROM 6:42CO 5:17GAL 2:20PHP 3:14COL 3:1HEB 12:11PE 2:24A.W. Tozer emphasizes the significance of the cross in Christianity, contrasting the superficial 'crossless Christianity' with the true call to follow Christ, which involves a personal death to sin and a rebirth into holiness and freedom. He highlights that the invitation to 'follow me' is both a challenge and a promise, leading believers to a deeper understanding of their faith and the glory that comes from returning to Calvary. Tozer encourages Christians to embrace the journey of faith, suggesting that the reality of following Jesus surpasses any dreams or expectations they may have.
The Middle Wall
By Elijah Goodwin0MAT 16:18JHN 12:26ACT 8:37GAL 3:28EPH 2:14EPH 4:4HEB 2:4Elijah Goodwin preaches about the significance of unity in the church, emphasizing the breaking down of barriers between believers of different backgrounds and the formation of one body in Christ. He delves into the historical context of the early church, highlighting the controversy surrounding the inclusion of Gentile believers and the abolishment of the law of commandments to create a new man. Goodwin draws practical conclusions, stressing that God only establishes one church at a time, gives its laws and ordinances, and accompanies its formation with divine manifestations. He underscores the importance of the church of Christ and the need for peacemaking among believers to follow the example set by Jesus.
Spiritual Discernment
By John Henry Jowett01KI 19:12PSA 32:8JHN 10:27JHN 12:261CO 15:22John Henry Jowett emphasizes the importance of spiritual discernment in recognizing the voice of the Lord amidst life's distractions and challenges. He highlights the need for believers to develop a keen ear to hear God's voice in times of sorrow and joy, ultimately leading to a deeper relationship with Him. Obedience to the Lord's call is essential for spiritual growth and sharpening our ability to listen to His voice, resulting in a life filled with vitality and eternal significance.
John 11:28 Lonsdale Square
By John Nelson Darby0New CovenantResurrectionPSA 1:1PSA 2:6PSA 8:5MRK 14:3JHN 1:1JHN 3:3JHN 11:25JHN 12:26ROM 15:8HEB 8:10John Nelson Darby emphasizes the significance of Jesus as the 'Resurrection and the Life,' highlighting His divine nature as the Son of God and the fulfillment of God's promises. He explains that while the Jews understood healing, they struggled to grasp the concept of resurrection through Christ, who entered into human sorrow and death to demonstrate His power over it. Darby discusses the transition from the old covenant, which was conditional, to the new covenant, which is unconditional, emphasizing the necessity of being born again to receive God's promises. He also reflects on the unique understanding of Mary, who recognized Christ's impending death and anointed Him, contrasting her insight with the disciples' lack of understanding. Ultimately, Darby illustrates that Christ's death and resurrection are central to God's plan for redemption and the fulfillment of His promises.
John 7:30-36. Christ Speaks of Going Where His Enemies Could Not Come.
By Favell Lee Mortimer0PRO 1:28ISA 55:8LUK 16:23JHN 7:34JHN 12:26Favell Lee Mortimer reflects on the discourse of Jesus in the temple, warning his enemies that a time will come when they will seek Him but not find Him, a fate that awaits all unbelievers who die impenitent. Despite the misunderstanding of Christ's enemies, God's mercy extends even to the Gentiles, as seen in His purpose of sending the gospel to all nations. Mortimer emphasizes the importance of desiring to be where Jesus is, as His promise ensures that His servants will be with Him in glory for eternity.
Serving a Saviour
By H.J. Vine0EXO 14:30DEU 28:47JHN 12:26ROM 12:21CO 15:581TH 1:91TH 4:16H.J. Vine preaches about the significance of serving the Lord after being saved, emphasizing the importance of understanding and following God's will. He highlights that believers are saved to serve truly, saved daily to serve rightly, and will be saved finally and fully when the Lord returns. The sermon underscores the eternal nature of salvation in Christ Jesus, encouraging believers to serve from salvation, through salvation, and to salvation, in communion with the living Saviour.
The Pre-Eminence of the Lord Jesus Christ
By Arno Clemens Gaebelein0JHN 12:26JHN 14:6JHN 17:24COL 1:16COL 1:18HEB 1:3HEB 10:3REV 5:12Arno Clemens Gaebelein preaches about the incomparable pre-eminence of the Lord Jesus Christ, emphasizing His eternal Glory, His role in creation, sustenance, revelation, redemption, and future reign. He highlights the necessity of giving Christ the first place in all aspects of our lives, acknowledging His sacrificial love, and the privilege of fellowship with Him. Gaebelein urges believers to make Christ the absorbing object of their hearts and to live for Him, recognizing His unmatched worthiness and the honor bestowed upon Him by the Father.
Following Jesus
By Newman Hall0MAT 16:24LUK 9:23JHN 12:26HEB 12:21PE 2:21Newman Hall preaches about the importance of following Jesus in all aspects of life, emphasizing the need to surrender to Him completely, even in the face of difficulties and uncertainties. Following Jesus means coming to Him fresh every day, trusting in His guidance, and imitating His example in all circumstances. It involves surrendering our will, denying ourselves, and taking up our cross daily, with the assurance that He will lead us victoriously through every challenge.
Mark 6
By John Nelson Darby0Divine LoveFaithPSA 132:15MAT 14:14MRK 6:1MRK 6:12MRK 6:30JHN 12:26ROM 5:8PHP 2:5HEB 4:16John Nelson Darby emphasizes the humility of Jesus as a manifestation of divine power, contrasting it with human pride and the rejection He faced from His own people. He highlights the importance of faith in accessing God's power, as seen in the miracles performed by Jesus and His disciples, and warns against the obstacles of unbelief. The sermon illustrates God's unwavering love and grace, even in the face of human rejection, and encourages believers to act in faith and share the gospel. Darby also reflects on the disciples' mission and the necessity of relying on God's provision, culminating in the miraculous feeding of the multitude. Ultimately, he calls for a heart ready to follow Christ, embracing the path of the cross.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
If any man serve me - Christ is a master in a twofold sense: 1. To instruct men. 2. To employ and appoint them their work. He who wishes to serve Christ must become: 1. His disciple or scholar, that he may be taught: 2. His servant, that he may be employed by and obey his master. To such a person a twofold promise is given: 1. He shall be with Christ, in eternal fellowship with him; and 2. He shall be honored by the Lord: he shall have an abundant recompense in glory; but how great, eye hath not seen, ear heard, nor hath it entered into the heart of man to conceive. How similar to this is the saying of Creeshna (an incarnation of the supreme God, according to the Hindoo theology) to his disciple Arjoon! "If one whose ways were ever so evil serve me alone, he soon becometh of a virtuous spirit, is as respectable as the just man, and obtaineth eternal happiness. Consider this world as a finite and joyless place, and serve me. Be of my mind, my servant, my adorer, and bow down before me. Unite thy soul unto me, make me thy asylum, and thou shalt go unto me." And again: "I am extremely dear to the wise man, and he is dear to me-I esteem the wise man even as myself, because his devout spirit dependeth upon me alone as his ultimate resource." Bhagvat Geeta, pp. 71 and 82. The rabbins have an extravagant saying, viz. "God is more concerned for the honor of the just man than for his own."
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
If any man serve me, let him follow me; and where I am, there shall also my servant be: If any man serve me, him will my Father honour--Jesus here claims the same absolute subjection to Himself, as the law of men's exaltation to honor, as He yielded to the Father.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Now is my soul troubled,.... At the hardness and unbelief of the Jews, and the rejection of them, when the Gentiles would be called, and converted, by which he would be glorified: and at the conduct and carriage of his disciples to him, he had a foreknowledge of; at the betraying of him by one, and the denial of him by another, and the flight of them all from him; and at the devil, and the furious and violent attack he knew he would make upon him, though he had obliged him to leave him, when he assaulted him before, and knew he could find nothing in him now, and that as God, he was able to destroy him; but this was to be done by him, as man, and by lying too: he was in his human soul troubled at the thoughts of his death, though it was his Father's will, and he had agreed to it, and was for the salvation of his people, his heart was so much set upon; yet it was terrible to the human nature, and especially as attended with the wrath of God; at the apprehensions of which, his soul was exceedingly troubled; not as about to fall on him on his own personal account, but as being the surety of his people, and as having their sins upon him to satisfy angry and injured justice for: and what shall I say? this question he puts, as being in the utmost distress, and difficulty, as if he knew not what to say; and yet not as advising with his disciples, what was to be said or done in his case; but is rather used to introduce another question, as the following words may be formed: shall I say, father, save me from this hour? as requesting his Father, that he might be strengthened under his sufferings and death, and carried through them, and out of them; or rather as deprecating them, desiring the cup might pass from him, as he afterwards did; and then the sense is, shall I put up such a petition to my Father, to save me from sorrows, sufferings, and death? no, I will not: the human nature through frailty might prompt him to it, and he be just going to do it, when he corrects himself, saying; but for this cause came I unto this hour: this hour or time of sorrow and suffering was appointed for him; it was fixed in the covenant of grace, and Christ had agreed to it; he was sent into this world, and he came into it, on account of this hour; and was preserved hitherto for this purpose; and was now come to Jerusalem, and was there at this instant, for that very reason, namely, to suffer and die. And since this was the case, he would not put up such a petition to his Father, but the following one.