John 8:34
Verse
Context
The Truth Will Set You Free
33“We are Abraham’s descendants,” they answered. “We have never been slaves to anyone. How can You say we will be set free?”34Jesus replied, “Truly, truly, I tell you, everyone who sins is a slave to sin.35A slave is not a permanent member of the family, but a son belongs to it forever.
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Whosoever committeth sin is the servant of sin - Or, δουλος εστι, etc., is the slave of sin. This was the slavery of which Christ spoke; and deliverance from it, was the liberty which he promised.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Whosoever committeth sin--that is, liveth in the commission of it--(Compare Jo1 3:8; Mat 7:23). is the servant of sin--that is, the bond-servant, or slave of it; for the question is not about free service, but who are in bondage. (Compare Pe2 2:19; Rev 6:16). The great truth here expressed was not unknown to heathen moralists; but it was applied only to vice, for they were total strangers to what in revealed religion is called sin. The thought of slaves and freemen in the house suggests to our Lord a wider idea.
John Gill Bible Commentary
I know that ye are Abraham's seed,.... In answer to the other part of the Jews' objection to Christ, and in favour of themselves, Christ owns that they were the natural seed of Abraham; for truth must be allowed to an adversary. But then this hindered not but they might be, as they were, in moral bondage to sin, and a generation of vipers, as those of them who came to John's baptism were; and might not be the sons of God, for not because they were the natural seed of Abraham, were they all the adopted sons of God; and might be cast out of the house of God, as Ishmael was cast out of Abraham's, though he was his natural seed. And what follows proves them to be under the power, and in the servitude of sin, and that they were the seed of the serpent that was to bruise the heel of the woman's seed, or put the Messiah to death, though they were the natural seed of Abraham: but ye seek to kill me; which none but such who are under the governing power of sin, are slaves unto it, and the vassals of the devil, would ever do: the reason of which is, because my word hath no place in you; their hearts were barred and bolted against it, with ignorance, enmity, and unbelief; it had no entrance into them; it did not come with power to their hearts, nor work effectually in them; it had no place at all in them, much less a dwelling; had it had one, it would have produced another effect in them, even love to Christ; which the doctrine of Christ, wherever it comes with power, and takes place in the soul, brings along with it; but where it does not, as here, hatred and indignation, envy and malice, more or less, show themselves. This clause is differently rendered, and so admits of different senses. The Vulgate Latin renders it, "my word does not take in you"; it did not take place in them, nor did it take with them; they could not receive it; in which sense the word is used in Mat 19:11; for the natural man cannot receive the doctrines of Christ; they are not suited to his taste: they are disagreeable to him. The Syriac version renders it, "ye are not sufficient for my word", to take it in; they were not capable of it; they could not understand it; it requires divine illumination, and a spiritual discerning, which they had not: the Persic version is, "ye are not worthy of my words"; of having the Gospel preached to them, and continued with them; they contradicting and blaspheming it, and rejecting the author of it; see Act 13:45. The Ethiopic version renders it, "my word does not remain with you"; and to the same purpose the Arabic version, "my word is not firm in you"; as soon as it was heard by them, it was caught away from them by Satan, whose children they were; it made no lasting impressions on them, but was like water spilt upon the ground: it may be rendered, "my word does not enter into you"; it did not make its way and penetrate into their hearts; for though, when attended with the demonstration of the Spirit, and of power, it is quick and powerful, and sharper than a twoedged sword, and enters into the conscience, and penetrates to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and lays open the secret thoughts and intents of the heart; yet of itself is an insufficient means of conversion; it cannot make its own way; there must be an exertion of powerful and efficacious grace; which shows the hardness and obstinacy of the heart of man.
John 8:34
The Truth Will Set You Free
33“We are Abraham’s descendants,” they answered. “We have never been slaves to anyone. How can You say we will be set free?”34Jesus replied, “Truly, truly, I tell you, everyone who sins is a slave to sin.35A slave is not a permanent member of the family, but a son belongs to it forever.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
(John - Part 34): If the Son Shall Make You Free, Ye Shall Be Free Indeed
By A.W. Tozer3.9K42:42ExpositionalJHN 8:31JHN 8:34JHN 8:36JHN 8:44JHN 8:47JHN 8:58In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of examining one's conduct to determine their true nature. He highlights the need for humility and a willingness to learn, as arrogance and self-assuredness hinder growth and understanding. The preacher references biblical teachings, such as the meek inheriting the earth and the importance of following Jesus to know the truth and be set free. He also warns against claiming to be a child of God while not aligning one's conduct with God's teachings. The sermon serves as a diagnostic tool to identify areas of spiritual growth and encourages listeners to seek guidance from the Holy Spirit and the Scriptures.
(Faith Community Chapel) 10/29
By Keith Daniel3.1K1:26:03SinJHN 8:34ACT 3:19ACT 17:30ROM 6:162CO 5:172TI 3:161PE 2:12In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the concept of being enslaved to sin. He explains that it is not just about committing isolated sins, but rather living a life of sin. The preacher highlights the tragic reality of being a servant of sin and the consequences it brings. He emphasizes the importance of repentance and the need for true freedom that can only come from Jesus Christ. The sermon also touches on the sinful nature of children and the transformative power of Christ in their lives.
Santification
By J. Edwin Orr3.0K1:25:53SantificationMAT 6:33JHN 8:34ROM 1:8ROM 3:23ROM 6:14ROM 7:151PE 2:19In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the problem of man's guilt and the need for justification. The first three chapters of the book of Romans address the issue of sin and guilt, emphasizing that every person is guilty before God. The solution to this problem is justification by faith, as stated in Romans 5:1. The preacher also highlights the ongoing struggle with the power of sin in the lives of believers, referencing Romans 6 and 7 as evidence of this struggle.
Freedom Cd - Track 6 (Compilation)
By Compilations2.7K06:41CompilationMAT 6:33MAT 10:38MAT 16:21MAT 16:24MRK 8:34LUK 9:23JHN 8:34In this sermon, the speaker shares his personal testimony of how he was once addicted to sin but found freedom in Jesus Christ. He emphasizes the importance of making a decision to follow Jesus and surrendering one's life to Him. The speaker encourages the audience, especially young people, to give Jesus a chance to transform their lives. He also mentions the challenges he faced for his faith but acknowledges that Jesus has been with him every step of the way. The sermon references the Bible verse where Jesus explains to his disciples that he must suffer and be killed but will be raised to life on the third day, and emphasizes the need to deny oneself and follow Jesus.
The Truth Will Set You Free
By John Piper1.7K46:47JHN 8:31JHN 8:34JHN 8:36JHN 8:41JHN 8:44ROM 2:29ROM 9:61JN 3:12This sermon delves into the importance of recognizing our need for Jesus as the ultimate liberator, highlighting how various evasive measures like ethnicity, religion, and moral superiority can hinder us from fully surrendering to Christ. It emphasizes that true freedom comes only through Jesus setting us free from sin, self, and Satan, regardless of our background or status. The message urges listeners to abide in God's word, be transformed by the truth, and embrace the liberating power of Christ.
Liberty for All!
By Jim Cymbala1.6K41:27LibertyJHN 8:31JHN 8:34JHN 8:36In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of finding the right master in order to experience true freedom. He shares a personal story about a talented basketball player who never reached his full potential because he didn't submit to the right coach. The speaker explains that Jesus is the one who sets us free from the law of sin and death, and it is through faith in Christ that we can truly experience freedom. He challenges the audience to understand the true meaning of freedom and to prioritize their eternal home in heaven over worldly concerns.
(The Role of Demons in Today's Society) Part 6
By Dean Hochstetler1.6K46:151KI 18:21JHN 8:32JHN 8:341JN 3:8In this sermon, the speaker shares a personal anecdote about a mission board leader who sought his advice regarding his troubled 14-year-old son. The speaker suggests that the boy may have been influenced by dark spiritual forces before being adopted. The sermon then transitions to discussing the topic of freedom from the powers of darkness, emphasizing that Christ is the victor over these forces. The speaker references the story of Elijah in 1 Kings 18, where he calls upon God to demonstrate His power and defeat the false prophets. The sermon concludes by highlighting the importance of commanding the powers of darkness in Jesus' name and the need to put on spiritual armor to withstand Satan's attacks.
Missing God's Promises
By Erlo Stegen1.0K53:34Promises2CH 7:1JER 29:11JHN 8:341CO 10:122PE 2:22In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of dying to the desire for wealth. He warns that those who desire to be rich often fall into temptation and harmful desires that lead to ruin and destruction. The love of money is described as the root of all kinds of evils, causing some to wander away from their faith. The preacher also shares a story of a man who had a near-death experience and was saved by God, highlighting the need for spiritual awakening and attentiveness to God's message. The sermon concludes with a reminder of God's promise of welfare and a future filled with hope.
The Power of the Cross
By Erlo Stegen8111:38:23PRO 28:13AMO 8:9MAT 6:33LUK 22:53JHN 8:34HEB 3:71JN 3:8In this sermon, the speaker discusses the decay and rottenness of sin, even among churchgoers. He mentions a legend about the search for the real cross of Jesus, where three crosses were found but it was difficult to discern which one belonged to Jesus. The speaker then focuses on three miracles that occurred when Jesus was on the cross: the darkness upon the earth, the tearing of the temple curtain, and the rising of saints from the dead. He emphasizes the significance of these miracles and encourages the audience to study and preach about them.
Chief of Sinners
By Joshua Daniel80128:30PSA 51:10PRO 28:13JHN 8:34ACT 7:58ROM 6:6GAL 2:20PHP 3:61TI 1:152TI 3:11JN 1:9This sermon by Joshua Daniel emphasizes the need for a deep understanding of sin, the significance of the cross in crucifying our old selves, and the call for moral responsibility and revival in a world plagued by selfishness, greed, and moral decay. It challenges the complacency and lack of awareness of sin in society, urging a return to the core message of Christ's salvation for sinners. The speaker highlights the importance of acknowledging personal sinfulness and the transformative power of the cross in daily life.
A Revival in Victory Over Sin
By Edgar Reich7311:06:52JHN 8:34This sermon emphasizes the importance of surrendering to God for victory over sin. It highlights the freedom Christ offers from the power of sin, the need to actively participate in the battle against sin, and the victory through faith, flight from temptation, and fighting against the devil. The message urges listeners to identify and overcome the giants of sin and oppression in their lives through complete surrender to Jesus.
The Door of Temptation Swings Both Ways
By Shane Idleman65848:17PSA 68:6MAT 26:41JHN 8:34JHN 14:6ROM 6:16ROM 13:141CO 10:13GAL 5:16EPH 4:27JAS 1:14This sermon emphasizes the importance of overcoming temptation by focusing on three key strategies: enduring temptation by saying no, closing the door to sin by cutting off provisions for the flesh, and avoiding planning ahead for sinful desires. The message highlights the need for repentance and a genuine relationship with Christ to experience true transformation and victory over sin.
The Convicting Work of the Holy Spirit
By Keith Daniel60047:38ISA 53:5LUK 18:10JHN 8:34JHN 16:8ACT 3:19ROM 3:23ROM 6:16ROM 6:232TH 1:8JAS 2:141JN 1:8REV 20:11This sermon emphasizes the work of the Holy Spirit in convicting the world of sin, righteousness, and judgment. It shares powerful personal testimonies of transformation and the necessity of coming to God as a sinner, seeking righteousness through Christ, and understanding the reality of judgment. The speaker highlights the importance of genuine repentance, faith, and the imparted righteousness that comes from a life transformed by God's grace.
You Don't Have to Sin
By Robert B. Thompson5641:18:00JHN 3:9JHN 8:34ROM 6:14HEB 10:171JN 1:81JN 3:31JN 3:5In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of staying within the boundaries set by God. He refers to the verse in Joshua that outlines the specific boundaries for the people of God. The speaker also highlights the need for believers to tread where God has promised, rather than venturing off on their own. He emphasizes that salvation is not a blank check and that it requires faith and patience to inherit the promises of God. The speaker also shares the example of David Brainerd, who preached to Native Americans about the need for thorough transformation and disregarded his own health in the process. The sermon concludes with the reminder that faith comes by hearing and that believers must actively pursue the promises of God.
The Journey of Righteousness
By Ray Greenly38450:08RighteousnessGEN 12:1JHN 8:31JHN 8:34ROM 3:9ROM 3:20ROM 3:28In this sermon, the preacher discusses how God had a plan to win back the hearts of Adam and Eve after they were deceived by the devil. God not only wanted to restore their relationship, but also deal with the wickedness and guilt in their spirits. The preacher emphasizes the importance of holding onto Jesus' teachings and knowing the truth, which will set us free from the bondage of sin. The battle for our souls is ongoing, with Satan claiming ownership, but Jesus offers freedom, healing, and restoration. The preacher encourages listeners to choose to leave the darkness of this world and follow Jesus to the celestial city, understanding that there is only one path that leads to the kingdom of heaven.
The Stain of the Blood
By Michael Koulianos4726:26Sin and RedemptionBlood Of ChristThe Power of the Blood of JesusPSA 32:3ISA 1:18JHN 8:34ROM 6:23HEB 3:13Michael Koulianos emphasizes the transformative power of the blood of Jesus in his sermon 'The Stain of the Blood.' He illustrates the importance of turning to God and recognizing the weight of sin, which enslaves and deceives us. Koulianos passionately invites listeners to respond to God's love and grace, urging them to give their lives to Jesus and experience true freedom from sin. He highlights that while sin is a stubborn stain, the blood of Jesus is even more powerful, capable of cleansing and renewing us completely. The sermon culminates in a heartfelt call for repentance and acceptance of Christ's sacrifice, encouraging all to embrace the life-changing presence of God.
The Fallacy of "Insignificant Sin"
By A.W. Tozer1SinForgivenessISA 59:2MAT 5:28LUK 13:3JHN 8:34ROM 3:231CO 10:12GAL 5:17EPH 2:1JAS 2:101JN 1:9A.W. Tozer addresses the misconception that minor sins are insignificant and can be overlooked by God. He emphasizes that a person's standing before God is determined not by the severity of their sins but by whether they have been forgiven and their allegiance to God or the devil. Tozer illustrates this with the analogy of a soldier who, by merely siding with rebels, is guilty of mutiny regardless of his actions. The sermon calls for a deeper understanding of sin and the necessity of repentance and forgiveness.
Concerning Sin
By G. Campbell Morgan0SinForgivenessISA 45:7MAT 8:17MAT 9:6MAT 26:27MRK 3:29LUK 24:46JHN 8:34JHN 9:41JHN 15:22JHN 16:8G. Campbell Morgan addresses the profound nature of sin, emphasizing its reality and the moral responsibility of individuals in the face of it. He highlights Jesus' authority to forgive sins, the necessity of repentance, and the dangers of blaspheming the Holy Spirit, which leads to eternal damnation. Morgan explains that sin is a volitional act of rebellion against God, and that Christ's mission was to confront and forgive sin, offering redemption through His sacrifice. The sermon underscores the seriousness of sin while also proclaiming the hope found in Christ's power to forgive and transform lives.
Our Lord Rejected at Nazareth Luke 4:16-32
By R.A. Torrey0Perseverance in FaithRejection of ChristISA 61:1MAT 10:23LUK 4:16JHN 3:19JHN 8:34R.A. Torrey discusses the rejection of Jesus in Nazareth, emphasizing His deep love for the house of God and His familiarity with Scripture. He highlights how Jesus boldly proclaimed His mission to bring good news to the poor and set captives free, yet faced skepticism and anger from His own people. The sermon illustrates the stages of rejection Jesus experienced, from initial admiration to outright hostility, and underscores the importance of perseverance in the face of opposition. Torrey encourages believers to follow Jesus' example of unwavering commitment to His mission, regardless of the response from others.
2 Peter 2:19
By John Gill0True Liberty in ChristFalse TeachingsJHN 8:34ROM 6:16GAL 5:1JAS 1:142PE 2:19John Gill expounds on 2 Peter 2:19, emphasizing the false promises of liberty made by deceitful teachers who offer a carnal freedom that leads to sin rather than true Christian liberty, which is freedom from sin and obedience to God. He warns that these teachers, who are themselves enslaved by corruption and sin, cannot genuinely provide the freedom they claim to offer. Gill illustrates that true liberty is found in serving God and living righteously, contrasting it with the destructive nature of the false liberty that caters to carnal desires. He concludes that those who are overcome by sin are in bondage and cannot promise freedom to others, as they are captives themselves.
The Bond of Iniquity
By Thomas Brooks0SinSpiritual BondagePSA 107:10ISA 61:1JHN 8:34JHN 8:36ACT 8:23ROM 6:16GAL 5:1EPH 4:22HEB 12:12PE 2:19Thomas Brooks emphasizes the destructive nature of sin, describing it as a 'bond of iniquity' that enslaves the soul. He illustrates how sin acts as a chain that binds the sinner to curses, wrath, and ultimately hell, making it the worst form of bondage. Brooks urges listeners to view their sins as chains that should evoke loathing and a desire for freedom. He highlights that unlike any earthly chains, the chains of sin are the most grievous and should compel one to seek liberation through Christ. The sermon calls for a deep reflection on the nature of sin and the urgent need for spiritual emancipation.
Crocodile Sinners
By Thomas Brooks0JudgmentSinPSA 51:5ECC 8:8MAT 25:46JHN 8:34ROM 6:23GAL 6:7HEB 9:27JAS 1:152PE 2:19REV 21:8Thomas Brooks emphasizes that unbelievers remain entrenched in their sins until death intervenes, using the analogy of a candle that, once extinguished, forces players to stop their game. He illustrates that if sinners were allowed to live indefinitely, they would continue to sin without restraint, growing increasingly monstrous in their behavior. Brooks likens habitual sinners to crocodiles, which grow larger without limit, highlighting the perpetual nature of sin without divine intervention. The sermon underscores the righteousness of God's judgment against unrepentant sinners, who would otherwise sin eternally.
The Devil's Brat!
By Thomas Brooks0Spiritual WarfareThe Nature of SinPSA 51:4ISA 59:2JHN 8:34ROM 6:23ROM 7:13GAL 5:17EPH 2:1HEB 12:1JAS 1:151JN 1:8Thomas Brooks emphasizes the profound evil of sin in his sermon 'The Devil's Brat!', illustrating that sin is the ultimate source of all evils and the greatest threat to the soul. He explains that sin is not merely an outward affliction but an inward spiritual corruption that separates humanity from God and subjects them to His wrath. Brooks argues that while other evils may affect one's earthly existence, sin jeopardizes eternal well-being and communion with God. He highlights that sin is the devil's creation, worse than the devil himself, as it has led to the downfall of angels and the crucifixion of Christ. Ultimately, Brooks calls Christians to recognize sin as the greatest evil and to rise against it with fervor.
Rather Be Satan's Bond-Slaves
By Thomas Brooks0Choice of HolinessSlavery to SinISA 43:10JHN 8:34ROM 6:16GAL 5:1EPH 2:12TI 2:201PE 2:9REV 21:8Thomas Brooks emphasizes the tragic choice of many who prefer to remain in their sinful ways, choosing to be slaves to Satan rather than embracing the freedom found in Christ. He warns of the dire consequences for those who would rather be vessels of wrath than vessels of honor, highlighting the eternal unhappiness that comes from rejecting holiness. Brooks calls for a reflection on the state of one's soul and the importance of choosing a path that leads to glory rather than destruction.
The Nature of Christ's Salvation Misrepresented by the Present-Day "evangelist."
By A.W. Pink0True SalvationThe Nature of SinMAT 1:21JHN 8:34ROM 6:232CO 5:17GAL 5:13EPH 2:1TIT 2:14HEB 9:281PE 2:241JN 1:9A.W. Pink emphasizes that the contemporary portrayal of Christ's salvation is fundamentally flawed, focusing on escaping hell rather than being liberated from sin. He argues that many desire to avoid eternal punishment without a genuine yearning for deliverance from their sinful nature and worldly desires. Pink highlights that true salvation is for those who recognize the gravity of their sin and seek freedom from its control, as indicated in Matthew 1:21, which states that Jesus saves His people from their sins. He warns that to save those who love sin would be to misrepresent Christ's holy nature and purpose.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Whosoever committeth sin is the servant of sin - Or, δουλος εστι, etc., is the slave of sin. This was the slavery of which Christ spoke; and deliverance from it, was the liberty which he promised.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Whosoever committeth sin--that is, liveth in the commission of it--(Compare Jo1 3:8; Mat 7:23). is the servant of sin--that is, the bond-servant, or slave of it; for the question is not about free service, but who are in bondage. (Compare Pe2 2:19; Rev 6:16). The great truth here expressed was not unknown to heathen moralists; but it was applied only to vice, for they were total strangers to what in revealed religion is called sin. The thought of slaves and freemen in the house suggests to our Lord a wider idea.
John Gill Bible Commentary
I know that ye are Abraham's seed,.... In answer to the other part of the Jews' objection to Christ, and in favour of themselves, Christ owns that they were the natural seed of Abraham; for truth must be allowed to an adversary. But then this hindered not but they might be, as they were, in moral bondage to sin, and a generation of vipers, as those of them who came to John's baptism were; and might not be the sons of God, for not because they were the natural seed of Abraham, were they all the adopted sons of God; and might be cast out of the house of God, as Ishmael was cast out of Abraham's, though he was his natural seed. And what follows proves them to be under the power, and in the servitude of sin, and that they were the seed of the serpent that was to bruise the heel of the woman's seed, or put the Messiah to death, though they were the natural seed of Abraham: but ye seek to kill me; which none but such who are under the governing power of sin, are slaves unto it, and the vassals of the devil, would ever do: the reason of which is, because my word hath no place in you; their hearts were barred and bolted against it, with ignorance, enmity, and unbelief; it had no entrance into them; it did not come with power to their hearts, nor work effectually in them; it had no place at all in them, much less a dwelling; had it had one, it would have produced another effect in them, even love to Christ; which the doctrine of Christ, wherever it comes with power, and takes place in the soul, brings along with it; but where it does not, as here, hatred and indignation, envy and malice, more or less, show themselves. This clause is differently rendered, and so admits of different senses. The Vulgate Latin renders it, "my word does not take in you"; it did not take place in them, nor did it take with them; they could not receive it; in which sense the word is used in Mat 19:11; for the natural man cannot receive the doctrines of Christ; they are not suited to his taste: they are disagreeable to him. The Syriac version renders it, "ye are not sufficient for my word", to take it in; they were not capable of it; they could not understand it; it requires divine illumination, and a spiritual discerning, which they had not: the Persic version is, "ye are not worthy of my words"; of having the Gospel preached to them, and continued with them; they contradicting and blaspheming it, and rejecting the author of it; see Act 13:45. The Ethiopic version renders it, "my word does not remain with you"; and to the same purpose the Arabic version, "my word is not firm in you"; as soon as it was heard by them, it was caught away from them by Satan, whose children they were; it made no lasting impressions on them, but was like water spilt upon the ground: it may be rendered, "my word does not enter into you"; it did not make its way and penetrate into their hearts; for though, when attended with the demonstration of the Spirit, and of power, it is quick and powerful, and sharper than a twoedged sword, and enters into the conscience, and penetrates to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and lays open the secret thoughts and intents of the heart; yet of itself is an insufficient means of conversion; it cannot make its own way; there must be an exertion of powerful and efficacious grace; which shows the hardness and obstinacy of the heart of man.