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Romans 12:11
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Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Not slothful in business - That God, who forbade working on the seventh day, has, by the same authority, enjoined it on the other six days. He who neglects to labor during the week is as culpable as he is who works on the Sabbath. An idle, slothful person can never be a Christian. Fervent in spirit - Τῳ πνευματι ζεοντες· Do nothing at any time but what is to the glory of God, and do every thing as unto him; and in every thing let your hearts be engaged. Be always in earnest, and let your heart ever accompany your hand. Serving the Lord - Ever considering that his eye is upon you, and that you are accountable to him for all that you do, and that you should do every thing so as to please him. In order to this there must be simplicity in the Intention, and purity in the Affections. Instead of τῳ Κυριῳ δουλευοντες, serving the Lord, several MSS., as DFG, and many editions, have τῳ καιρῳ δουλευοντες, serving the time - embracing the opportunity. This reading Griesbach has received into the text, and most critics contend for its authenticity. Except the Codes Claromontanus, the Codex Augiensis, and the Codex Boernerianus, the first a MS. of the seventh or eighth century, the others of the ninth or tenth, marked in Griesbach by the letters DFG, all the other MSS. of this epistle have Κυριῳ, the Lord; a reading in which all the versions concur. Καιρῳ, the time, is not found in the two original editions; that of Complutum, in 1514, which is the first edition of the Greek Testament ever printed; and that of Erasmus, in 1516, which is the first edition published; the former having been suppressed for several years after it was finished at the press. As in the ancient MSS. the word Κυριῳ is written contractedly, ΚΩ, some appear to have read it καιρῳ instead of Κυριῳ; but I confess I do not see sufficient reason after all that the critics have said, to depart from the common reading.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
not slothful in business--The word rendered "business" means "zeal," "diligence," "purpose"; denoting the energy of action. serving the Lord--that is, the Lord Jesus (see Eph 6:5-8). Another reading--"serving the time," or "the occasion"--which differs in form but very slightly from the received reading, has been adopted by good critics [LUTHER, OLSHAUSEN, FRITZSCHE, MEYER]. But as manuscript authority is decidedly against it, so is internal evidence; and comparatively few favor it. Nor is the sense which it yields a very Christian one.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Not slothful in business,.... Meaning not worldly business, or the affairs of life; though slothfulness in this respect is scandalous to human nature, and especially in persons under a profession of religion; men should diligently pursue their lawful callings for the support of themselves and families, and the interest of Christ: but spiritual business, the affairs of piety and religion, the service of God, private and public, to which we should not be backward, nor slothful in the performance of; such as preaching, hearing, reading, praying, and other ordinances of God; yea, we should be ready and forward to every good work, and particularly, and which may be here greatly designed, ministering to the poor saints in their necessity; in doing which we show that kind, tender, affectionate, brotherly love, and give that honour and respect, at least that part of it, which is relief, required in the foregoing verse; see Heb 6:10. Remarkable is that saying of R. Tarphon (m), "The day is short, and the work great, , "and workmen slothful", and the reward much, and the master of the house is urgent.'' Fervent in spirit; in their own spirits, for the glory of God, the honour of Christ, and the cause of religion, in imitation of Christ himself, and as Phinehas and Elijah were; which fervency of spirit is opposed to that lukewarmness of soul, Rev 3:16, that coldness of affection, and leaving of the first love, Rev 2:4, so much complained of, and resented by Christ in his people: or else in the Spirit of God; for there may be fervency in men's spirits, which comes not from the Spirit of God, as in the Jews, and particularly Saul, before his conversion, who had "a zeal of God, but not according to knowledge", Rom 10:2; but when "the love of God is shed abroad in the heart" by the Spirit of God, Rom 5:5, this will make a man's spirit fervent in the service of God, for which the apostle would have these believers concerned. A disciple of the wise men among the Jews is (n) said to be "fervent", because the law is as a boiling pot unto him; much more should a disciple of Christ be fervent, who has the Gospel of Christ, the love of God, and the grace of the Spirit to inflame his soul with true zeal and fervour. Serving the Lord; some copies read, "serving time": the likeness of the words, and especially in an abbreviation, may have occasioned this different reading; which should it be followed, is not to be understood in an ill sense, of temporizing, or time serving, of men's accommodating themselves, their sentiments and conduct, according to the times in which they live, in order to escape reproach and persecution; but of redeeming the time, improving every season to do good, and taking every opportunity of serving God. But as the reading our version follows is confirmed by authentic copies, and by the Syriac, and other Oriental versions, it is best to adhere to it: by "the Lord" is here meant either God, Father, Son, and Spirit, who are the alone object of divine service and religious worship; or the Lord Jesus Christ, who most frequently goes by the name of Lord in the New Testament; and who is the one Lord, whose we are and whom we should continually serve, being under the greatest obligations to him, not only as our Creator, but as our head, husband, and Redeemer. Very rightly does the apostle premise fervency in spirit to serving the Lord; for without the Spirit of God there is no true worshipping and serving of him, and which ought to be done with fervency as well as with constancy. The Syriac version renders it, "serve our Lord". (m) Pirke Abot, c. 2. sect. 15. (n) T. Bab. Taanith, fol. 4. 1.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
12:11 but work hard and serve the Lord enthusiastically: As Christians, we are to be passionate about our faith and eager to fulfill our ministry to others within the church.
Romans 12:11
Love, Zeal, Hope, Hospitality
10Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Outdo yourselves in honoring one another.11Do not let your zeal subside; keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
The Maturity of a Spiritual Leader
By J. Oswald Sanders4.7K43:13Spiritual LeadershipMAT 6:33ROM 12:11EPH 4:11COL 1:28In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of having someone behind us pouring on oil to keep us moving and generating power in our leadership positions. He encourages leaders to be kept at boiling point by the Holy Spirit and to serve the Master faithfully. The speaker then focuses on the qualities of a leader, particularly in the areas of speech, life, love, faith, and purity. He highlights the significance of setting an example in these areas, as it will make people listen and follow, regardless of age. The sermon concludes with a discussion on how to react to dashed hopes, adversity, and sorrow, emphasizing the need to trust in God's sovereignty and maintain a mature and Christ-like attitude. The sermon references Paul's letter to the Ephesians, specifically chapter 4, to support the teachings on leadership and maturity.
Take Heed to Yourself
By J. Oswald Sanders3.5K35:36Take HeedROM 12:111TI 4:71TI 4:12In this sermon, Billy Graham reflects on the life of a man who dedicated himself to one thing rather than dabbling in many things. He emphasizes the importance of finding the one thing that unifies and integrates our lives, and giving the best of ourselves to God. Graham references Paul's instructions to Timothy, urging him to train himself to be godly and to watch his life and teaching closely. He encourages leaders to be diligent and enthusiastic in their service to God, setting an example for others to follow.
Zeal for God's House
By Zac Poonen3.0K57:58ISA 59:9ISA 59:15MAT 6:33JHN 2:13ACT 20:34ROM 12:11REV 12:11In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of being zealous and passionate for God's glory. He encourages listeners to refocus their vision and recognize the shortness of time and the seriousness of life. The speaker uses the example of the apostle Paul, who was zealous even before his conversion, to illustrate the need for a burning passion for God's work. He also highlights Paul's dedication to preaching and working hard to support himself and help the weak, showing that Christian work should not be driven by profit. The sermon emphasizes the importance of actively stirring up the flame of faith and living a life that counts for God.
A Call to Anguish by David Wilkerson
By Compilations2.6K07:242CH 7:14PSA 34:18ISA 66:2JOL 2:12MAT 5:4ROM 12:11GAL 6:2EPH 6:18JAS 4:8This sermon emphasizes the importance of anguish in the church and in individual believers' lives, highlighting the need for deep sorrow and distress over the spiritual condition of the church and the world. It calls for a return to true passion for Christ, which is born out of a baptism of anguish and a genuine burden for the things that break God's heart. The message challenges believers to move beyond mere concern to a place of deep prayer, weeping, and seeking God's heart in order to see true renewal and revival.
(God and Man) Zeal for God's House
By Zac Poonen2.1K58:52ISA 59:9ISA 59:15JHN 2:16ACT 20:34ROM 12:11REV 12:11In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of being zealous and passionate in our faith. He encourages listeners to refocus their vision and recognize the shortness of time and the seriousness of life. The speaker highlights the example of the apostle Paul, who was zealous even before his conversion, and urges believers to be fervent in serving the Lord. He emphasizes the need to work hard and not be lazy in our spiritual lives, and to be attentive to the leading of the Holy Spirit. The speaker also emphasizes the importance of using our resources to help the weak and needy, following the example of Paul who worked hard to support himself and help others.
The Movements Between World Wars
By J. Edwin Orr2.1K24:382CH 7:14PSA 85:6ISA 57:15JOL 2:28MAT 5:16ACT 1:8ROM 12:11EPH 5:14COL 3:1JAS 4:8This sermon recounts historical revivals and movements of God in various countries, highlighting the impact of prayer, powerful preaching, and the work of true Christians in bringing about spiritual awakenings. It emphasizes the role of individuals like W. P. Nicholson, John Sung, and others in sparking revivals amidst challenging circumstances, leading to conversions, missionary work, and lasting spiritual transformations.
One Lion; Two Lions; No Lion at All
By C.H. Spurgeon1.9K42:00Overcoming ExcusesSlothfulnessPRO 22:13ECC 9:10MAT 11:28ROM 12:111CO 15:58PHP 4:13COL 3:232TH 3:10HEB 12:1JAS 4:17C.H. Spurgeon addresses the issue of slothfulness, using the metaphor of lions to illustrate the excuses people make to avoid taking action, particularly in their spiritual lives. He emphasizes that the slothful man creates imaginary fears, such as lions in the streets, to justify his laziness and procrastination in coming to Christ. Spurgeon warns that delaying one's commitment to God only leads to more difficulties, as the 'lions' multiply with time. Ultimately, he encourages listeners to recognize that there are no real obstacles preventing them from seeking salvation, urging them to act decisively and trust in God's grace.
The Resurgence of 1830 Onward
By J. Edwin Orr1.7K27:352CH 7:14PSA 85:6ISA 57:15JOL 2:28HAB 3:2ACT 2:17ROM 12:11EPH 5:141TH 5:19REV 2:5This sermon delves into the historical significance of revivals and awakenings, emphasizing the impact of past movements of God's Spirit in various regions like Hawaii, Scotland, Tonga, and the United States. It highlights the transformative power of prayer, the spread of the gospel, and the challenges faced by believers in different denominations during times of revival. The sermon also addresses the importance of learning from history to avoid repeating past mistakes and to embrace the work of God's Spirit in bringing about spiritual renewal.
The History of Rock - Part 2
By Alan Ives1.7K1:57:00Rock MusicPSA 9:1ISA 58:1JER 10:2MAT 6:33ROM 12:11EPH 3:20COL 3:17In this sermon, the preacher discusses the importance of maintaining a natural and normal approach to music in worship. He compares the excitement and thrill of extra musical notes to the simplicity and beauty of hymns sung by a group of 16 men. The preacher also reflects on the influence of rock and roll music in promoting a philosophy of freedom and rebellion. He emphasizes the power of God's word and the need to communicate with clarity and flow in our speech. Additionally, the preacher briefly mentions examples of popular music from the 1950s and 2000s to illustrate the changing trends in music over time.
The Resurgence of 1882 Onward
By J. Edwin Orr1.6K25:542CH 7:14PSA 85:6ISA 57:15JOL 2:28HAB 3:2ZEC 1:3ACT 2:17ROM 12:11JAS 4:8REV 2:5This sermon reflects on historical revivals and movements of God, highlighting the impact of spiritual awakenings in the past, such as the prayer movement of 1858, the surge of lay activity, and the growth of missions. It emphasizes the distinction between general revival and the blessing of God upon faithful evangelists like D.L. Moody, Andrew Murray, and others, showcasing how these movements influenced regions like Germany, Sweden, and the United States. The sermon also touches on the decline of certain movements due to shifting priorities and the importance of praying for a fresh outpouring of the Holy Spirit.
The Canadian Revival - Part 10
By Bill McLeod1.6K07:322CH 7:14PSA 85:6JOL 2:28MAT 9:38MRK 11:24ACT 1:14ACT 2:1ROM 12:111TH 5:16JAS 5:16This sermon emphasizes the importance of unwavering faith in God's promises and the power of prayer for revival. It shares stories of individuals who believed in God's plans for revival in Canada and around the world, highlighting the need for persistent prayer, sacrifice, and surrender to God's will. The sermon also discusses historical revivals like the Haystack Revival and the Moravian revival, showcasing the impact of awakened faith and continuous prayer on spreading the Gospel.
O Church Arise!
By Tim Conway1.4K1:00:40Personal RevivalPRO 10:4ISA 58:8MRK 16:20LUK 16:1ROM 12:11COL 3:232TI 2:15In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the urgency of working for the Lord while there is still time. He shares a personal experience of attending his class reunion and realizing how quickly time has passed. He uses the parable of the dishonest manager to illustrate the importance of being faithful and diligent in our service to God. The preacher encourages the congregation to do everything with all their might and to learn from the shrewdness of the people of this world in dealing with their own generation.
We Need God (Compilation)
By Compilations1.3K19:09CompilationISA 6:1MAT 6:33MRK 12:30LUK 3:16ACT 2:3ROM 12:11REV 3:20In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of not losing the fire and passion for God. He urges preachers who have become too focused on organizing and have lost their zeal to humble themselves and seek God's intervention. The preacher reminds the congregation that God will not beg at their door but instead mercifully knocks, calling them to repentance and surrender. He encourages everyone to cry out to God, asking what they should do to be on fire for Him. The sermon references hymns and quotes from Charles Wesley and John Wesley, highlighting the desire for a constant flame of love and devotion to God.
Bodies and the Body
By Stephen Kaung1.3K1:00:58ROM 8:1ROM 12:1ROM 12:11In this sermon on Romans Chapter 12, the speaker emphasizes the importance of presenting our bodies as living sacrifices to God. He encourages believers to not conform to the ways of the world but to be transformed by renewing their minds. The speaker also highlights the concept of being in Christ and living according to the Spirit, rather than living according to the flesh. Additionally, the sermon discusses the significance of using our spiritual gifts and exercising them diligently for the building up of the body of Christ.
Submit Yourselves Therefore to God
By Jack Hyles1.3K36:31SubmissionPRO 3:5ISA 6:8MAT 28:19LUK 9:23JHN 14:15ROM 12:11PHP 4:13In this sermon, the preacher shares a powerful story about witnessing a blind person being led by a seeing-eye dog. He reflects on how the blind person completely yields themselves to the guidance of the dog, and compares it to our need to yield ourselves to the Holy Spirit. The preacher emphasizes that it doesn't matter what we want in life, but rather what God wants for us. He encourages listeners to be obedient to God's will and to constantly seek signs from heaven.
Planning Properly, - Part 2
By Alistair Begg1.1K34:05PlanningMAT 6:33LUK 12:47ROM 12:11JAS 4:13JAS 4:16In this sermon by Alistair Begg, he focuses on James chapter 4 and verse 13. He warns against boasting and bragging about our plans for the future, as we do not know what tomorrow holds. Begg emphasizes the importance of recognizing our daily duties and responsibilities, and not neglecting the good that we ought to do. He reminds listeners that our Christian experience is expressed in the everyday events of life, and failing to do the good we know we should do is considered sin.
Standing in the Gap Sp Harvest 1988
By George Verwer9721:09:37Harvest1KI 18:362CH 7:1MAT 6:33LUK 11:9ACT 12:4ROM 12:11In this sermon, the speaker discusses the importance of being consistent in our Christian faith. He uses the example of Peter being imprisoned in the book of Acts to illustrate the challenges we may face in our journey. The speaker also highlights the need for spiritual balance, love, and other biblical principles in addition to prayer and revival. He emphasizes the importance of having a global perspective on missions and not just focusing on our own country.
(2 Kings) Jehu: Zealous, but Not Enough
By David Guzik95156:432KI 10:162KI 10:32MAT 18:6ROM 12:111CO 10:31COL 3:23In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the story of Jehu from the Bible. Jehu was a man of great power and momentum, known for his zeal and authority. The people of Jezreel, recognizing his strength, surrendered to him and acknowledged him as their king. However, despite being used as an instrument by God, Jehu lacked a true relationship and fellowship with God. The sermon emphasizes the importance of not just being zealous for God's work, but also having a genuine heart of worship and fellowship with Him.
(2 Samuel) How to Love an Enemy
By David Guzik90329:041SA 10:12SA 4:1PSA 27:14ISA 42:4MAT 6:33ROM 12:11JAS 1:22In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the events described in 2 Samuel chapter 4. The chapter begins with the news of Abner's death, which causes Saul's son to lose heart and troubles all of Israel. David, the servant of the Lord, responds to this distress by addressing two men named Rehab and Bana. The preacher emphasizes the importance of not being discouraged when serving God, contrasting it with the discouragement that comes from serving man. The sermon also introduces Mephibosheth, the grandson of King Saul, who becomes lame after his nurse drops him while fleeing.
Let Us Me Thus Minded
By Stephen Kaung8981:09:23MAT 18:20ROM 12:1ROM 12:11PHP 3:7PHP 3:16In this sermon, the preacher recounts the story of Saul's encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus. Saul, who later became the apostle Paul, was persecuting Christians when he heard a voice asking why he was persecuting Jesus. Jesus revealed himself to Saul and told him that he had a purpose for his life. Saul, now recognizing Jesus as Lord, asked what he should do. The preacher emphasizes the importance of consecration and presenting oneself as a living sacrifice to God, as well as the need for a renewed mind.
Satisfied to Do Little When We Should Be Doing Much
By Roger Ellsworth75731:01Tests2KI 13:14MAT 6:33LUK 9:62ROM 12:11COL 3:23JAS 1:22REV 3:15In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the story of King Joash and the good cause that was placed before him. The sermon is divided into three parts: the good cause, the sufficient resources, and the missing ingredient. The preacher emphasizes the importance of being zealous and doing much for the Lord's cause, rather than being content with doing little. He encourages the congregation to support the church in preaching the gospel and to use the resources God has given, particularly the resource of prayer. The sermon concludes with a warning against being satisfied with doing little for the Lord when we are called to do much.
Many Voices in the World
By Hattie Hammond7132:04:11WorldMAT 6:33LUK 2:49ROM 12:112TI 4:10In this sermon, the preacher discusses the voice of the world and how it tries to appeal to us through various legitimate things in our lives. The voice of the world is cleverly directed by the enemy, who is the antagonist of God. The preacher mentions four forms or patterns in which the voice of the world may manifest itself. The sermon emphasizes the importance of understanding the sin question, the limitations of our flesh, and our dependence on the Holy Spirit in order to navigate through the period of predation and receive illumination.
Inside and Out
By Jack Hyles60030:07PSA 28:7PSA 119:105PRO 11:30MAT 28:19JHN 14:3ROM 12:112CO 5:20In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of trusting in God and serving Him. He shares his own experience of initially struggling with preaching and studying the Bible, but eventually finding inspiration and guidance from God. The preacher uses the example of David, who trusted in God's strength and protection even when he was running from his own son and facing difficult circumstances. The sermon emphasizes the reality of God's presence and salvation, stating that it is not just a crutch or a hoax, but something genuine and life-changing.
Ict Meeting on Logos 20.9.83
By George Verwer48045:08MissionsPRO 22:29MAT 6:33ROM 12:11EPH 4:29COL 3:232TI 2:2JAS 1:5In this sermon, the speaker discusses the challenges and unpredictability of doing God's work in Brahman. They mention the lack of funds and the need to be flexible in their transportation arrangements. The speaker emphasizes the importance of training and preparation for the individuals involved in the work, as they will be the ones representing God to others. They also highlight the pressures and opportunities for growth that come with working in a busy and observed environment.
Amusing - Enough Poetry
By Major Ian Thomas1900:22Passion in FaithAuthenticityPRO 16:3ROM 12:111CO 10:31EPH 2:10COL 3:23Major Ian Thomas reflects on the balance between creativity and substance, using the metaphor of poetry and fire to illustrate the need for genuine passion and depth in our expressions. He suggests that while one may have artistic talent, it is essential to ensure that this talent is fueled by a deeper, more meaningful source. The sermon encourages listeners to evaluate whether their creative endeavors are truly ignited by the Spirit or merely superficial. Thomas emphasizes the importance of authenticity in our spiritual lives, urging believers to seek a deeper connection with God.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Not slothful in business - That God, who forbade working on the seventh day, has, by the same authority, enjoined it on the other six days. He who neglects to labor during the week is as culpable as he is who works on the Sabbath. An idle, slothful person can never be a Christian. Fervent in spirit - Τῳ πνευματι ζεοντες· Do nothing at any time but what is to the glory of God, and do every thing as unto him; and in every thing let your hearts be engaged. Be always in earnest, and let your heart ever accompany your hand. Serving the Lord - Ever considering that his eye is upon you, and that you are accountable to him for all that you do, and that you should do every thing so as to please him. In order to this there must be simplicity in the Intention, and purity in the Affections. Instead of τῳ Κυριῳ δουλευοντες, serving the Lord, several MSS., as DFG, and many editions, have τῳ καιρῳ δουλευοντες, serving the time - embracing the opportunity. This reading Griesbach has received into the text, and most critics contend for its authenticity. Except the Codes Claromontanus, the Codex Augiensis, and the Codex Boernerianus, the first a MS. of the seventh or eighth century, the others of the ninth or tenth, marked in Griesbach by the letters DFG, all the other MSS. of this epistle have Κυριῳ, the Lord; a reading in which all the versions concur. Καιρῳ, the time, is not found in the two original editions; that of Complutum, in 1514, which is the first edition of the Greek Testament ever printed; and that of Erasmus, in 1516, which is the first edition published; the former having been suppressed for several years after it was finished at the press. As in the ancient MSS. the word Κυριῳ is written contractedly, ΚΩ, some appear to have read it καιρῳ instead of Κυριῳ; but I confess I do not see sufficient reason after all that the critics have said, to depart from the common reading.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
not slothful in business--The word rendered "business" means "zeal," "diligence," "purpose"; denoting the energy of action. serving the Lord--that is, the Lord Jesus (see Eph 6:5-8). Another reading--"serving the time," or "the occasion"--which differs in form but very slightly from the received reading, has been adopted by good critics [LUTHER, OLSHAUSEN, FRITZSCHE, MEYER]. But as manuscript authority is decidedly against it, so is internal evidence; and comparatively few favor it. Nor is the sense which it yields a very Christian one.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Not slothful in business,.... Meaning not worldly business, or the affairs of life; though slothfulness in this respect is scandalous to human nature, and especially in persons under a profession of religion; men should diligently pursue their lawful callings for the support of themselves and families, and the interest of Christ: but spiritual business, the affairs of piety and religion, the service of God, private and public, to which we should not be backward, nor slothful in the performance of; such as preaching, hearing, reading, praying, and other ordinances of God; yea, we should be ready and forward to every good work, and particularly, and which may be here greatly designed, ministering to the poor saints in their necessity; in doing which we show that kind, tender, affectionate, brotherly love, and give that honour and respect, at least that part of it, which is relief, required in the foregoing verse; see Heb 6:10. Remarkable is that saying of R. Tarphon (m), "The day is short, and the work great, , "and workmen slothful", and the reward much, and the master of the house is urgent.'' Fervent in spirit; in their own spirits, for the glory of God, the honour of Christ, and the cause of religion, in imitation of Christ himself, and as Phinehas and Elijah were; which fervency of spirit is opposed to that lukewarmness of soul, Rev 3:16, that coldness of affection, and leaving of the first love, Rev 2:4, so much complained of, and resented by Christ in his people: or else in the Spirit of God; for there may be fervency in men's spirits, which comes not from the Spirit of God, as in the Jews, and particularly Saul, before his conversion, who had "a zeal of God, but not according to knowledge", Rom 10:2; but when "the love of God is shed abroad in the heart" by the Spirit of God, Rom 5:5, this will make a man's spirit fervent in the service of God, for which the apostle would have these believers concerned. A disciple of the wise men among the Jews is (n) said to be "fervent", because the law is as a boiling pot unto him; much more should a disciple of Christ be fervent, who has the Gospel of Christ, the love of God, and the grace of the Spirit to inflame his soul with true zeal and fervour. Serving the Lord; some copies read, "serving time": the likeness of the words, and especially in an abbreviation, may have occasioned this different reading; which should it be followed, is not to be understood in an ill sense, of temporizing, or time serving, of men's accommodating themselves, their sentiments and conduct, according to the times in which they live, in order to escape reproach and persecution; but of redeeming the time, improving every season to do good, and taking every opportunity of serving God. But as the reading our version follows is confirmed by authentic copies, and by the Syriac, and other Oriental versions, it is best to adhere to it: by "the Lord" is here meant either God, Father, Son, and Spirit, who are the alone object of divine service and religious worship; or the Lord Jesus Christ, who most frequently goes by the name of Lord in the New Testament; and who is the one Lord, whose we are and whom we should continually serve, being under the greatest obligations to him, not only as our Creator, but as our head, husband, and Redeemer. Very rightly does the apostle premise fervency in spirit to serving the Lord; for without the Spirit of God there is no true worshipping and serving of him, and which ought to be done with fervency as well as with constancy. The Syriac version renders it, "serve our Lord". (m) Pirke Abot, c. 2. sect. 15. (n) T. Bab. Taanith, fol. 4. 1.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
12:11 but work hard and serve the Lord enthusiastically: As Christians, we are to be passionate about our faith and eager to fulfill our ministry to others within the church.