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Romans 12:8
Verse
Context
Sermons
Jim Cymbala
J. Glyn Owen
William MacDonald
Richard Sipley
Stephen Fenton
George Verwer
Chuck SmithSummary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Or he that exhorteth - Ὁ παρακαλων, The person who admonished and reprehended the unruly or disorderly; and who supported the weak and comforted the penitents, and those who were under heaviness through manifold temptations. He that giveth - He who distributeth the alms of the Church, with simplicity - being influenced by no partiality, but dividing to each according to the necessity of his case. He that ruleth - Ὁ προΐσταμενος, He that presides over a particular business; but as the verb προΐσταμαι also signifies to defend or patronize, it is probably used here to signify receiving and providing for strangers, and especially the persecuted who were obliged to leave their own homes, and were destitute, afflicted, and tormented. It might also imply the persons whose business it was to receive and entertain the apostolical teachers who traveled from place to place, establishing and confirming the Churches. In this sense the word προστατις is applied to Phoebe, Rom 16:2 : She hath been a Succorer of many, and of myself also. The apostle directs that this office should be executed with diligence, that such destitute persons should have their necessities as promptly and as amply supplied as possible. He that showeth mercy - Let the person who is called to perform any act of compassion or mercy to the wretched do it, not grudgingly nor of necessity, but from a spirit of pure benevolence and sympathy. The poor are often both wicked and worthless: and, if those who are called to minister to them as stewards, overseers, etc., do not take care, they will get their hearts hardened with the frequent proofs they will have of deception, lying, idleness, etc. And on this account it is that so many of those who have been called to minister to the poor in parishes, workhouses, and religious societies, when they come to relinquish their employment find that many of their moral feelings have been considerably blunted; and perhaps the only reward they get for their services is the character of being hard-hearted. If whatever is done in this way be not done unto the Lord, it can never be done with cheerfulness.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Or he that exhorteth--Since all preaching, whether by apostles, prophets, or teachers, was followed up by exhortation (Act 11:23; Act 14:22; Act 15:32, &c.), many think that no specific class is here in view. But if liberty was given to others to exercise themselves occasionally in exhorting the brethren, generally, or small parties of the less instructed, the reference may be to them. he that giveth--in the exercise of private benevolence probably, rather than in the discharge of diaconal duty. with simplicity--so the word probably means. But as simplicity seems enjoined in the next clause but one of this same verse, perhaps the meaning here is, "with liberality," as the same word is rendered in Co2 8:2; Co2 9:11. he that ruleth--whether in the Church or his own household. See Ti1 3:4-5, where the same word is applied to both. with diligence--with earnest purpose. he that showeth mercy, with cheerfulness--not only without grudging either trouble or pecuniary relief, but feeling it to be "more blessed to give than to receive," and to help than be helped.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Or he that exhorteth, on exhortation,.... This is the other branch of prophesying or preaching, and which is more practical, and lies in giving a word of exhortation to the saints, as their particular cases call for; for as prophets were teachers, Act 13:1; so also exhorters, Act 15:32; and one considerable branch of the ministry, and which is more principally the pastor's work, as well as to teach, is to exhort all sorts of persons, young and old, rich and poor, high and low, bond and free, under his care, with all longsuffering and doctrine. The words will bear to be read, "he that comforteth, on consolation"; and so the Syriac version renders them, , "and another who is a comforter, in his consolation". Though all the ministers of the Gospel are to speak comfortably to the saints, by preaching the doctrines of free justification by Christ's righteousness, and remission of sins by his blood, by bringing the good news of salvation by him, and by opening the exceeding great and precious promises of the Gospel; yet some have a greater talent this way than others; some are "Boanergeses", sons of thunder, Mar 3:17, and others "Barnabases", sons of consolation, Act 4:36; and each should attend to that with all diligence and humility, he is best qualified for. He that giveth, let him do it with simplicity. Here begins the subdivision of the deacon's office into its several branches, "giving", "ruling", and "showing mercy": by "giving" is meant, not giving of his own, or performing: acts of charity, which is common to all the members of the church, who ought liberally to contribute to the relief of the poor; but imparting or distributing the church's money to proper objects, which is to be done "with simplicity"; with all faithfulness and integrity, without fraud or embezzling the church's stock, with impartiality, and without respect of persons, and liberally and bountifully, as the word here used signifies; see Co2 8:2; he that ruleth, with diligence; deacons are the "helps, governments", mentioned in Co1 12:28, who are assisting to the pastor in the government of the church; their business is, to observe the conversations of the members of the church, and to warn them that are unruly and walk disorderly, to compose differences, and prepare matters to lay before the church; a deacon is "one that goes before"; and leads on others by way of example in his conduct and conversation; or as the Syriac renders it, , "that stands at the head" of affairs in the church; in the management of which he ought to use all study, thoughtfulness, care and diligence: he that sheweth mercy, with cheerfulness; which is not to be understood of showing compassion to miserable objects in common, or of giving alms to necessitous persons, and which ought to be done according to the Jewish (l) canons, , "with a cheerful countenance"; and is what is highly pleasing to God, who "loves a cheerful giver": but of a branch of the deacon's office, whose work, among other things, is to visit the sick and distressed, and communicate to them as their wants require; all which should be done, not in a morose and frowning manner, but with a pleasant look and cheerful countenance, which makes the visit and the gift more welcome, acceptable, and useful. (l) Maimon. Hilch. Mattanot Anayim, c. 10. sect. 4. 13.
Romans 12:8
Living Sacrifices
7if it is serving, let him serve; if it is teaching, let him teach;8if it is encouraging, let him encourage; if it is giving, let him give generously; if it is leading, let him lead with diligence; if it is showing mercy, let him do it cheerfully.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Something You Need, Something You Can Be
By Jim Cymbala5.3K55:59PurposeMAT 6:33ACT 15:32ROM 12:6ROM 12:8In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of encouraging others through the Word of God. She mentions how Steve Green, a previous guest, used music and Scripture to feed the spirit and grow faith. The speaker highlights Acts 15:32, where Judas and Silas encouraged the brothers through their prophetic words. She encourages the audience to share what God has revealed to them from the Bible and to avoid idle conversations that do not edify. The speaker also references 1 Corinthians 14:3, which states that prophesying is meant to speak to men for their encouragement. She concludes by emphasizing the different gifts given by God, including the gift of encouragement, as mentioned in Romans 12:6 and 12:8.
The Discovering and Delighting in God's Will
By J. Glyn Owen4.5K39:59Will Of GodMAT 6:33ROM 12:1ROM 12:8In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the response that is expected from believers to the Gospel of God in Jesus Christ. He emphasizes that responding to the Gospel involves a sacrificial beginning and an ongoing transformation in our hearts and lives. The speaker also highlights the importance of not allowing the fallen world to shape our thinking and living as Christians. Ultimately, the goal is to worship God and show Him how much we think He is worth by giving ourselves fully to Him.
Attributes of God - Grace, Mercy, Longsuffering and Goodness
By William MacDonald1.7K37:04Attributes of GodEXO 34:6PSA 31:19PSA 52:1PSA 119:68NAM 1:3MAT 5:7LUK 6:36JHN 1:16ROM 3:4ROM 9:22ROM 12:8ROM 15:52CO 8:9EPH 2:81PE 5:10In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the smallness of the earth in the vast universe, highlighting the insignificance of humanity in comparison. However, despite our sinful state, God showed incredible grace by sending his son Jesus to be born in Bethlehem and suffer on the cross for our salvation. The speaker lists numerous ways in which God has blessed and transformed believers, including indwelling them with the Holy Spirit and adopting them as his children. The sermon also emphasizes the importance of showing mercy, citing biblical verses that encourage believers to be merciful as God is merciful.
Fit or Misfit? (Part 9): The Gift of Giving
By Richard Sipley97354:51JHN 12:3ROM 12:82CO 6:22CO 9:112CO 9:132CO 9:15JAS 4:14In this sermon, the preacher discusses the motivational gift of giving, as mentioned in Romans 12:8. He shares a personal experience of encountering a church member with the gift of giving, who was wealthy and successful in his business. The preacher emphasizes the importance of giving with generosity, as instructed by God. He also references a parable told by Jesus about a man with the gift of giving, who showed compassion and took care of a wounded man. The sermon highlights the significance of recognizing and utilizing the gift of giving in serving others.
May 18, 2003 Pm
By Stephen Fenton82206:49MAT 6:33MRK 5:19LUK 6:38ROM 12:82CO 8:12CO 9:61JN 4:19In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of generosity and sharing God's blessings with others. He highlights the story of the demoniac of the Gadarenes, who was instructed by Jesus to go home and tell others about what God had done for him. The preacher connects this concept of generosity to our finances, stating that it is not just about money but about deeper things. He also mentions the cheerful givers who serve in the church and encourages the congregation to be cheerful givers in all aspects of their lives.
Philosophies of Leadership Dec 88
By George Verwer49845:06LeadershipPRO 17:17MAT 5:7MAT 22:37JHN 3:16JHN 15:13ROM 12:81CO 13:4In this sermon, the speaker shares his philosophy of leadership and the importance of forgiveness. He emphasizes the need for mercy and how it is rooted in God's love and the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross. The speaker also highlights the significance of demonstrating love and reaching out to others, even when it may be challenging or when idealism falls short. Overall, the sermon encourages the audience to embrace mercy, love, and spiritual growth in their relationships with one another and with God.
The Gift of Showing Mercy
By Chuck Smith0MercyCharacter Of GodEXO 34:62SA 22:26PSA 103:8PRO 28:13MIC 6:8MAT 5:7LUK 6:36ROM 12:8HEB 4:16JAS 2:13Chuck Smith emphasizes the necessity of showing mercy as a command from God, contrasting it with justice, which is getting what one deserves. He explains that true mercy should be shown cheerfully, reflecting God's nature, and not with reluctance or guilt. Smith illustrates this through biblical examples, including Job's friends and Jacob's acknowledgment of God's mercy, highlighting that mercy is a gift from God that we are called to extend to others. He stresses that our ability to receive mercy is linked to our willingness to show it to others, as taught by Jesus. Ultimately, the sermon calls believers to embody God's merciful character in their interactions with others.
Worthy to Lead
By A.W. Tozer0Worthiness in LeadershipSpiritual LeadershipMAT 20:26ACT 20:28ROM 12:8GAL 1:1EPH 4:111TI 3:12TI 2:2HEB 13:17JAS 3:11PE 5:2A.W. Tozer emphasizes that true leadership in the church is rooted in spiritual authority rather than mere election or popularity. He points out that while conformity to God's Word is essential, obedience to leaders should only be given if those leaders demonstrate their worthiness through spiritual integrity. Tozer highlights the apostle Paul's example, who claimed his authority not through human appointment but through divine calling. The sermon calls for leaders to live exemplary lives of holiness and faithfulness, ensuring they are worthy to lead the church effectively.
Leadership and Ministry (Judges 5:2)
By T. Austin-Sparks0LeadershipDivine OrderEXO 17:9DEU 33:16JDG 5:2MAT 20:26ROM 12:81CO 12:28EPH 4:111TH 2:7HEB 13:171PE 5:2T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the critical role of leadership in both spiritual and practical realms, asserting that effective leadership is essential for overcoming challenges and guiding communities towards their divine purpose. He highlights that true leaders are chosen by God, not merely by human qualifications, and they often face significant opposition and personal struggles. The sermon draws on biblical examples, particularly Moses and Joshua, to illustrate the qualities of spiritual leadership, including humility, courage, and a deep connection with God. Sparks also discusses the importance of inspiration in leadership, as exemplified by Deborah, who, despite being a woman in a traditionally male role, inspired others through her prophetic insight and maternal concern for her people. Ultimately, the message calls for recognizing and embracing the divine order of leadership within the Church.
The Gift of Giving
By Chuck Smith0The Gift of GivingGenerosityEXO 25:2DEU 15:7PSA 54:6PRO 19:17MAL 3:8MRK 12:41LUK 6:38ACT 1:8ROM 12:82CO 9:7Chuck Smith emphasizes the significance of the gift of giving as a manifestation of the Holy Spirit's power in believers. He illustrates how Jesus exemplified selfless giving, urging Christians to give without strings attached and with simplicity, reflecting God's generosity towards us. Smith warns against ostentatious giving and highlights that true giving should stem from a willing heart, motivated by love, and not out of pressure or obligation. He encourages believers to embrace the joy of giving, assuring them that God rewards those who give cheerfully and sacrificially. Ultimately, Smith calls for a generous spirit that reflects God's love and grace in our lives.
It's Not the Gift but the Giver
By Denis Lyle0PRO 18:21ACT 8:4ACT 20:28ROM 12:8EPH 4:11Denis Lyle preaches on the power of speech and the importance of examining who we listen to and how we communicate. He emphasizes the impact of gifted communicators, highlighting the ability to influence and manipulate through speech. Lyle delves into the spiritual gifts given by the Holy Spirit, focusing on the Speaking Gifts, such as apostles and prophets, and their foundational role in the church. He discusses the roles of evangelists and pastor/teachers in continuing the ministry of spreading the gospel and nurturing believers, while also touching on the fortifying ministry of exhortation and encouragement within the church.
Look Who's Talking - Speaking Gifts
By Denis Lyle0LUK 10:38ROM 12:6ROM 12:81CO 12:9Denis Lyle preaches on the story of Martha and Mary, emphasizing the importance of balancing active service with spending time in the presence of Jesus. He highlights the serving gifts mentioned in Romans 12 and 1 Corinthians 12, such as leadership, helping, giving, discerning, believing, and caring, stressing the need for each believer to utilize their unique gifts for the benefit of the church and the glory of God.
"Why Am I Here?"
By A.W. Tozer0ROM 12:8The preacher emphasizes the importance of diligence, defined as doing something hurriedly with intense effort and motivation, eagerness, and readiness to expend energy and effort. Diligence is not only about swiftness of action but also about earnest commitment, care for others, and zeal in serving the Lord. The sermon warns against sloth and indifference, highlighting the need to be fervent in spirit, especially in times of increasing lawlessness.
The Woman of Samaria
By John Nelson Darby0LUK 2:25ACT 4:36ROM 12:82CO 1:31TH 2:3HEB 12:5HEB 13:22John MacArthur and Wuest delve into the concept of encouragement (paraklesis), which involves providing solace, comfort, exhortation, and consolation to others. They emphasize the root meaning of coming alongside someone to offer assistance, as exemplified by the Good Samaritan. The Bible verses highlight the importance of seeking comfort and encouragement from God, the ultimate source of strength and hope, and the need for believers to comfort others with the comfort they have received from God.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Or he that exhorteth - Ὁ παρακαλων, The person who admonished and reprehended the unruly or disorderly; and who supported the weak and comforted the penitents, and those who were under heaviness through manifold temptations. He that giveth - He who distributeth the alms of the Church, with simplicity - being influenced by no partiality, but dividing to each according to the necessity of his case. He that ruleth - Ὁ προΐσταμενος, He that presides over a particular business; but as the verb προΐσταμαι also signifies to defend or patronize, it is probably used here to signify receiving and providing for strangers, and especially the persecuted who were obliged to leave their own homes, and were destitute, afflicted, and tormented. It might also imply the persons whose business it was to receive and entertain the apostolical teachers who traveled from place to place, establishing and confirming the Churches. In this sense the word προστατις is applied to Phoebe, Rom 16:2 : She hath been a Succorer of many, and of myself also. The apostle directs that this office should be executed with diligence, that such destitute persons should have their necessities as promptly and as amply supplied as possible. He that showeth mercy - Let the person who is called to perform any act of compassion or mercy to the wretched do it, not grudgingly nor of necessity, but from a spirit of pure benevolence and sympathy. The poor are often both wicked and worthless: and, if those who are called to minister to them as stewards, overseers, etc., do not take care, they will get their hearts hardened with the frequent proofs they will have of deception, lying, idleness, etc. And on this account it is that so many of those who have been called to minister to the poor in parishes, workhouses, and religious societies, when they come to relinquish their employment find that many of their moral feelings have been considerably blunted; and perhaps the only reward they get for their services is the character of being hard-hearted. If whatever is done in this way be not done unto the Lord, it can never be done with cheerfulness.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Or he that exhorteth--Since all preaching, whether by apostles, prophets, or teachers, was followed up by exhortation (Act 11:23; Act 14:22; Act 15:32, &c.), many think that no specific class is here in view. But if liberty was given to others to exercise themselves occasionally in exhorting the brethren, generally, or small parties of the less instructed, the reference may be to them. he that giveth--in the exercise of private benevolence probably, rather than in the discharge of diaconal duty. with simplicity--so the word probably means. But as simplicity seems enjoined in the next clause but one of this same verse, perhaps the meaning here is, "with liberality," as the same word is rendered in Co2 8:2; Co2 9:11. he that ruleth--whether in the Church or his own household. See Ti1 3:4-5, where the same word is applied to both. with diligence--with earnest purpose. he that showeth mercy, with cheerfulness--not only without grudging either trouble or pecuniary relief, but feeling it to be "more blessed to give than to receive," and to help than be helped.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Or he that exhorteth, on exhortation,.... This is the other branch of prophesying or preaching, and which is more practical, and lies in giving a word of exhortation to the saints, as their particular cases call for; for as prophets were teachers, Act 13:1; so also exhorters, Act 15:32; and one considerable branch of the ministry, and which is more principally the pastor's work, as well as to teach, is to exhort all sorts of persons, young and old, rich and poor, high and low, bond and free, under his care, with all longsuffering and doctrine. The words will bear to be read, "he that comforteth, on consolation"; and so the Syriac version renders them, , "and another who is a comforter, in his consolation". Though all the ministers of the Gospel are to speak comfortably to the saints, by preaching the doctrines of free justification by Christ's righteousness, and remission of sins by his blood, by bringing the good news of salvation by him, and by opening the exceeding great and precious promises of the Gospel; yet some have a greater talent this way than others; some are "Boanergeses", sons of thunder, Mar 3:17, and others "Barnabases", sons of consolation, Act 4:36; and each should attend to that with all diligence and humility, he is best qualified for. He that giveth, let him do it with simplicity. Here begins the subdivision of the deacon's office into its several branches, "giving", "ruling", and "showing mercy": by "giving" is meant, not giving of his own, or performing: acts of charity, which is common to all the members of the church, who ought liberally to contribute to the relief of the poor; but imparting or distributing the church's money to proper objects, which is to be done "with simplicity"; with all faithfulness and integrity, without fraud or embezzling the church's stock, with impartiality, and without respect of persons, and liberally and bountifully, as the word here used signifies; see Co2 8:2; he that ruleth, with diligence; deacons are the "helps, governments", mentioned in Co1 12:28, who are assisting to the pastor in the government of the church; their business is, to observe the conversations of the members of the church, and to warn them that are unruly and walk disorderly, to compose differences, and prepare matters to lay before the church; a deacon is "one that goes before"; and leads on others by way of example in his conduct and conversation; or as the Syriac renders it, , "that stands at the head" of affairs in the church; in the management of which he ought to use all study, thoughtfulness, care and diligence: he that sheweth mercy, with cheerfulness; which is not to be understood of showing compassion to miserable objects in common, or of giving alms to necessitous persons, and which ought to be done according to the Jewish (l) canons, , "with a cheerful countenance"; and is what is highly pleasing to God, who "loves a cheerful giver": but of a branch of the deacon's office, whose work, among other things, is to visit the sick and distressed, and communicate to them as their wants require; all which should be done, not in a morose and frowning manner, but with a pleasant look and cheerful countenance, which makes the visit and the gift more welcome, acceptable, and useful. (l) Maimon. Hilch. Mattanot Anayim, c. 10. sect. 4. 13.