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Romans 14:17
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Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
For the kingdom of God - That holy religion which God has sent from heaven, and which be intends to make the instrument of establishing a counterpart of the kingdom of glory among men: see on Mat 3:2 (note). Is not meat and drink - It consists not in these outward and indifferent things. It neither particularly enjoins nor particularly forbids such. But righteousness - Pardon of sin, and holiness of heart and life. And peace - In the soul, from a sense of God's mercy; peace regulating, ruling, and harmonizing the heart. And joy in the Holy Ghost - Solid spiritual happiness; a joy which springs from a clear sense of God's mercy; the love of God being shed abroad in the heart by the Holy Ghost. In a word, it is happiness brought into the soul by the Holy Spirit, and maintained there by the same influence. This is a genuine counterpart of heaven; righteousness without sin, Peace without inward disturbance, Joy without any kind of mental agony or distressing fear. See the note on Mat 3:2.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
For the kingdom of God--or, as we should say, Religion; that is, the proper business and blessedness for which Christians are formed into a community of renewed men in thorough subjection to God (compare Co1 4:20). is not meat and drink--"eating and drinking" but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost--a beautiful and comprehensive division of living Christianity. The first--"righteousness"--has respect to God, denoting here "rectitude," in its widest sense (as in Mat 6:33); the second--"peace"--has respect to our neighbors, denoting "concord" among brethren (as is plain from Rom 14:19; compare Eph 4:3; Col 3:14-15); the third--"joy in the Holy Ghost"--has respect to ourselves. This phrase, "joy in the Holy Ghost," represents Christians as so thinking and feeling under the workings of the Holy Ghost, that their joy may be viewed rather as that of the blessed Agent who inspires it than their own (compare Th1 1:6).
John Gill Bible Commentary
For he that in these things serveth Christ,.... That is, in righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost; he whose faith is an obedient one, and embraces these things, and from the heart obeys them; who seeks righteousness alone by Christ, and peace and pardon through his blood; who rejoices in Christ Jesus, and puts no trust in the flesh, in moral duties or ceremonial services; and who, from principles of grace, serves Christ in a way of righteousness, wherein he possesses true peace of conscience, and abundance of spiritual joy and comfort: the Alexandrian copy and some others, and the Vulgate Latin version, read, "in this thing"; as if it referred only to the right use of Christian liberty, about things indifferent: such an one is acceptable to God; in Christ the beloved, in whom he believes, from whom he derives all his peace, joy, and comfort; and whom he serves in righteousness and holiness, and through whom also all his services are acceptable unto God: and approved of men; of good men, of such that can discern things that differ, and approve those that are excellent; and even of bad men, for such who live honestly and uprightly, who cultivate peace and friendship among men, and carry themselves cheerfully and civilly to all men, cannot but be approved of by the generality of them, though they may dislike them on other accounts.
Romans 14:17
The Law of Love
16Do not allow what you consider good, then, to be spoken of as evil.17For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit.18For whoever serves Christ in this way is pleasing to God and approved by men.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
(Basics) 17. Dead Works
By Zac Poonen5.6K13:01DEU 28:47ISA 64:5MAL 3:10ROM 14:172CO 9:7In this sermon, the preacher discusses the importance of being a cheerful giver in the eyes of God. He references 2 Corinthians 9:7, which states that God loves a cheerful giver. The preacher also highlights a lesser-known verse in Isaiah 64:5, which emphasizes that God meets with those who rejoice in doing righteousness. The sermon then delves into the concept of dead works, which are works done without love. The preacher explains that love for God should be the foundation of all our actions, as Jesus commanded us to love God with all our heart, soul, and strength. He warns against doing good works out of fear or for personal gain, as God values works done out of love and obedience.
Knowing What to Do
By Vance Havner4.4K26:10RevivalDAN 12:4MAT 24:44LUK 1:17LUK 4:24ROM 14:171CO 12:28REV 2:20In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of understanding the overall purpose of God in history when discussing current events in the light of the Bible. He uses the story of Rip and the wrong George to illustrate how people often miss the mark when it comes to understanding God's plan. The preacher also highlights the futility of trying to create a kingdom of heaven out of unregenerate humanity and warns against the dangers of pursuing political projects without considering God's purpose. He concludes by discussing the promise of the Lord's return and the need for righteousness, as well as the potential consequences of ignoring God's warnings and living in moral decay.
Road to Reality - to Live Is Christ - Part 2
By K.P. Yohannan3.0K26:04Abundant LifePSA 73:25MAT 6:33MRK 16:15JHN 9:25ACT 1:8ROM 14:171CO 3:11In this sermon, the speaker shares a personal story about his mother's sacrificial love for God and others. Despite being tired and worn out, his mother had a radiant glow on her face because of her love for Jesus. She secretly supported young people studying in Bible school and those already on the mission field by sending them money every month without telling anyone. The speaker reflects on his initial misunderstanding of his mother's actions and realizes the depth of her love and commitment to Jesus.
Breaking Out of the Boundaries
By Bill McLeod2.4K53:48BoundariesISA 54:1MAT 10:27MAT 22:39ROM 14:12ROM 14:17In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the tendency of Christians to resist change and cling to the familiar. He uses the analogy of bears on a canoe trip to illustrate this point. The speaker also highlights the importance of being accountable to God for how we use our talents, money, and opportunities. He urges Christians to refrain from judging others and instead focus on not causing others to stumble. The speaker also criticizes the excessive time spent on worldly distractions like TV shows and emphasizes the need to prioritize God and prayer. He encourages believers to step out of their comfort zones and engage in activities like starting Bible studies and getting to know their neighbors as part of their mission field. The sermon references Romans 14 and emphasizes the need for personal accountability to God.
Beginning
By Norman Meeten2.3K1:04:35Christian LifeMRK 1:15MRK 12:30MRK 16:15ROM 14:17In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of preaching the gospel and the need for repentance and belief in Jesus. He explains that the gospel is centered around Jesus and the four gospels in the Bible provide a comprehensive picture of his life and teachings. The preacher also highlights the significance of preparation and cleansing before receiving the gospel. He references the story of John the Baptist and his message of repentance. The sermon concludes with a mention of Mark's Gospel, which is described as simple and likely influenced by the apostle Peter.
John Wesley's Vision of Authentic Christianity
By Herbert McGonigle2.3K1:04:03Authentic ChristianityMAT 22:37JHN 1:12ACT 26:18ROM 14:17In this sermon, the preacher discusses the preaching of John Wesley, a prominent figure in the Methodist movement. Wesley preached to a crowd of about three thousand people in the open air, emphasizing the importance of loving God and loving one's neighbor. He believed that scriptural holiness was defined by these two principles. Wesley lived a life of simplicity and generosity, giving away all his wealth and focusing on serving the poor. The sermon also mentions the bicentenary of the abolition of slavery, highlighting the importance of historical accuracy in reporting.
God's Normal Order - Called to Be Kingdom of Priests
By Devern Fromke1.9K1:06:53PriestsEXO 25:8ISA 43:19MAT 9:16MAT 17:4JHN 1:17JHN 4:24ROM 14:17In this sermon, the speaker begins by acknowledging that there are several pressing matters on his heart that he wants to address. He emphasizes that we are living in a late hour and that God is going to do something quick and marvelous that we can hardly comprehend. The speaker shares a story about his friend meeting a police officer and recognizing him as a minister of God based on Romans 13:4. This leads to a discussion about the authority that comes from being under authority. The speaker then references Matthew 9:16-17, highlighting the importance of newness and how God has a specific calling and place for each individual to serve Him. The sermon concludes with a plea for everyone to represent God in their respective spheres, whether as a wife, mother, husband, teacher, or in any other role, and to do good in order to avoid the wrath of God.
Romans 14:17
By Paul Washer1.9K45:04Kingdom Of GodPSA 16:11MAT 6:33JHN 15:11ROM 14:17GAL 5:22PHP 4:71TI 6:11In this sermon, the speaker uses the concept of stepping into heaven to illustrate the idea of being transformed by the glory of God. He emphasizes that in order to bear the beauty of God and experience true worship, one must be supernaturally transformed. The speaker also highlights the idea that heaven is not a static place, but rather a pursuit of knowing and experiencing more of God's infinite nature. He encourages listeners to be motivated by growing in the knowledge of God and experiencing the beauties of God, which can be overwhelming and take their breath away.
How Our Joy Can Be Full
By Zac Poonen1.7K58:48JoyMAT 6:33MAT 7:12MAT 22:39LUK 6:31ROM 14:171JN 2:11JN 2:20In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of being prepared for the return of Christ. He highlights two types of people: those who are ready to stand before the Lord and have their sins forgiven, and those who are afraid of their true lives being exposed. The speaker warns against being consumed by worldly desires, as it can hinder one's love for God and Jesus. He also criticizes the influence of certain movies and TV preachers, suggesting that they distract Christians from reading the Bible and developing discernment. The sermon concludes with a reminder to treat others as we would like to be treated and to live a life that aligns with the teachings of the Bible, which can bring true joy and eternal life.
Change
By Robert B. Thompson1.6K56:56MAT 6:33MAT 13:23MRK 4:1ROM 8:13ROM 14:17GAL 5:16GAL 5:24In this sermon, Jesus teaches the crowd by the lake using parables. He tells the parable of the sower, explaining that the seed represents the word of God and the different types of soil represent different responses to the word. Some people receive the word but it is quickly taken away by the enemy, others receive it with joy but fall away when faced with trials, and still others are choked by the cares of the world. However, those who receive the word with a good and honest heart bear fruit and multiply abundantly. The sermon emphasizes the importance of understanding the parable of the sower as it is fundamental to understanding the kingdom of God and the concept of change.
Quote - Ravenhill on Entertainment
By Leonard Ravenhill1.5K00:18Ravenhill QuoteThe Dangers of EntertainmentJoy in the Holy SpiritNEH 8:10PSA 16:11JHN 15:11ROM 14:17GAL 5:22Leonard Ravenhill emphasizes that while he enjoys music and fun, he believes that entertainment serves as a substitute for true joy, which can only be found in the Holy Spirit. He argues that the more one experiences joy through the Holy Ghost, the less one will rely on television or other forms of entertainment. Ravenhill's message challenges listeners to seek genuine joy in their spiritual lives rather than temporary distractions.
Tokens of His Compassion - Part 5
By Leonard Ravenhill1.5K08:57ISA 61:3JHN 2:13JHN 14:27JHN 15:11JHN 16:8ROM 14:171TH 5:19HEB 12:291PE 1:81PE 4:14This sermon delves into the concept of sin in different periods, highlighting the Church's struggle against the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost. It emphasizes the need for churches to embrace the conviction of the Holy Ghost and confront sin, rather than being comfortable with it. The sermon also explores the importance of experiencing the transformative power of the Holy Spirit, joy, and peace that surpass understanding, as exemplified by Jesus' teachings and actions.
Communism, Islam, Sept 11, Soverenty of God - Part4
By Josef Tson1.4K38:07NEH 8:10MAT 6:33JHN 15:11ROM 14:17EPH 4:301TH 1:6In this sermon, the speaker discusses the importance of support and partnership in reaching the world with the word of God. He compares the downfall of communism to the potential transformation of Islam into a mission field. The speaker shares a personal story of being interrogated and the impact his sermons had on one of the interrogators. He emphasizes that joy should not be lost in the face of martyrdom and shares a powerful story of God's intervention in his own life. The sermon also touches on the nature of evil and God's unconventional approach to defeating it through the sacrifice of Jesus.
How Our Joy Can Be Full - Part 2
By Zac Poonen1.3K08:34MAT 6:19ROM 14:17EPH 1:3COL 3:21JN 1:4This sermon emphasizes the pursuit of eternal life and the fullness of joy that comes with it. It contrasts legalistic righteousness with the joy found in pursuing God's kingdom and heavenly blessings. The message calls for a shift from being occupied with earthly things to focusing on heavenly realities, where true joy and fulfillment are found.
How Our Joy Can Be Full - Part 4
By Zac Poonen1.3K09:09ROM 14:172TI 4:31JN 2:1John the Apostle, a 95-year-old man, urges believers to abide in Christ and have confidence in His imminent return. He warns against the spirit of deception, the Antichrist, and the importance of discerning teachings contrary to Christ. John emphasizes the urgency of the last hour and the presence of both a main Antichrist and many smaller deceivers. He highlights the need for believers to remain steadfast in the face of worldly temptations and false teachings, focusing on love, holiness, and obedience to God's commandments.
Skyland Conference 1988 (Two Kingdoms) - Part 3
By William MacDonald1.2K38:27Kingdom Of GodROM 5:1ROM 14:171CO 2:132TI 3:16HEB 6:102PE 1:20In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of the Bible in our lives and the attacks it faces. He explains that we must believe in the Bible first and then we will see its truth. The speaker also addresses common arguments against the scriptures, such as the idea that certain teachings are only for the kingdom. He encourages listeners to stand firm in their belief in the Word of God, regardless of the consequences.
Joy
By Jim Cymbala1.2K26:46JoyNEH 8:10PSA 100:2JHN 15:11ACT 13:52ROM 14:17PHP 4:41JN 1:7In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of rejoicing in the Lord and counting our blessings instead of focusing on our problems. He highlights that Satan is after our joy because without joy, we cannot effectively serve God or have faith to battle the enemy. The preacher references the early Christian church, where the disciples were described as being filled with joy and the Holy Spirit. He encourages the audience to seek the joy given by the Holy Spirit, which cannot be affected by demons or circumstances. The sermon emphasizes the need to protect and maintain our joy as it is a source of strength and a gift from God.
The Kingdom of Heaven Is a Treasure
By John Piper1.2K39:41MAT 6:33MAT 13:44ROM 14:17REV 11:15In this sermon, Pastor John Piper focuses on the parables of the hidden treasure and the pearl of great value in Matthew 13:44-46. He emphasizes the immense worth and value of the kingdom of heaven, which is like a treasure hidden in a field. The parables teach us that the kingdom of God is so valuable that it is worth giving up everything else in order to obtain it. The joy of having the kingdom surpasses any earthly possession or desire. Pastor Piper encourages listeners to prioritize the kingdom of God above all else and to be willing to sacrifice everything for the sake of gaining Christ.
Growth to Maturiy (Tamil)
By Zac Poonen1.1K1:01:09PSA 16:11JER 29:13MAT 4:4MAT 15:32MRK 4:19ROM 8:29ROM 14:17HEB 1:9HEB 5:12HEB 11:25This sermon emphasizes the importance of seeking the kingdom of God first, which is characterized by righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit. It challenges believers to grow spiritually, not remaining as spiritual babies but progressing towards maturity by developing the mind of Christ, which involves loving righteousness and hating sin. The speaker highlights the need for continuous obedience to God's word, leading to spiritual growth, joy, and peace in the believer's life.
God's Alarm Clock
By Bill McLeod1.1K1:02:28WarningPSA 119:133PRO 21:16JHN 2:17ACT 13:52ROM 14:171TH 5:61TH 5:92TI 2:241PE 2:211JN 2:1In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of living a righteous and alert life. He shares a story of a man who fearlessly faced a dangerous situation because he had faith in heaven. The preacher encourages the audience to walk wisely, redeem their time, and be filled with the Spirit. He emphasizes that our lives are like a theater, being watched by God, angels, and even demons. The sermon concludes with a reminder to stay awake and prepared for the coming of Jesus. The preacher also shares a personal anecdote about a mischievous classroom experience.
The Command to Rejoice Evermore
By Hans R. Waldvogel98013:41RejoicingISA 66:1JHN 14:23ROM 14:171TH 5:51TH 5:161TH 5:23HEB 3:19In this sermon, Elder Brooks shares a personal testimony of how God commanded him to get rid of his "dump" and spend 15 minutes a day praising the Lord. Despite being a reputed minister, he obediently followed this command and experienced a transformation in his life. The sermon emphasizes the importance of obeying God's commands and rejoicing in the Lord. It also highlights the biblical teachings on serving God through rejoicing, praying without ceasing, and giving thanks in everything. The sermon encourages believers to seek God's will and experience the preservation of their spirit, soul, and body through peace, joy, and righteousness in the Holy Ghost.
Suffering and the Kingdom of God
By Zac Poonen95849:05MAT 3:2LUK 24:25ACT 1:3ACT 14:22ROM 14:17PHP 1:29PHP 3:102TH 1:41PE 2:181PE 4:1This sermon emphasizes the importance of understanding and embracing the concept of the Kingdom of God as highlighted in the New Testament. It delves into the significance of suffering, both in the flesh and externally, as a means to enter God's Kingdom. The message challenges believers to endure tribulations, follow the example of Jesus in suffering unjustly, and seek righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit as the essence of the Kingdom of God.
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By Percy Trueblood81946:33PSA 51:7LUK 6:12ROM 14:17In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the importance of righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost as the true essence of the Kingdom of God. He references Psalm 51, where David, a backslider, repents for his sins of adultery and murder. The preacher emphasizes the need for discipline and a clean heart, as well as the danger of not abiding in Jesus and keeping His commandments. He also addresses the topic of eternal security and refutes the idea that salvation can be lost, emphasizing that salvation is from sin and is evidenced by a transformed life.
Let the Spirit Make You Like Jesus
By Zac Poonen8181:11:51MAT 24:44LUK 17:30ROM 14:172CO 3:181JN 3:2This sermon emphasizes the importance of being truly ready for Christ's return, focusing on the need for genuine readiness rather than just theoretical understanding. It highlights the significance of maintaining a clear conscience, increasing sensitivity to the Holy Spirit, and avoiding mere academic knowledge of scripture. The speaker warns against falling into the trap of religious activities without a personal relationship with Jesus, urging believers to avoid the pitfalls of pride, deception, and false teachings.
A Worthwhile Goal in Life
By Basilea Schlink70604:35Radio ShowMAT 3:3JHN 3:30ACT 3:19ROM 14:17In this sermon by Basil E. Shlink, the speaker emphasizes the importance of having a meaningful goal in life. He uses the example of John the Baptist, who dedicated his life to preparing the way for Jesus. John cleared away the obstacles of sin in his own life and in the lives of others, leading them to repentance. The speaker encourages listeners to follow John's example and prepare the way for Jesus in their own lives, so that he can rule in their hearts and bring joy and peace. The sermon emphasizes the need for repentance and humility in order to fulfill this calling.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
For the kingdom of God - That holy religion which God has sent from heaven, and which be intends to make the instrument of establishing a counterpart of the kingdom of glory among men: see on Mat 3:2 (note). Is not meat and drink - It consists not in these outward and indifferent things. It neither particularly enjoins nor particularly forbids such. But righteousness - Pardon of sin, and holiness of heart and life. And peace - In the soul, from a sense of God's mercy; peace regulating, ruling, and harmonizing the heart. And joy in the Holy Ghost - Solid spiritual happiness; a joy which springs from a clear sense of God's mercy; the love of God being shed abroad in the heart by the Holy Ghost. In a word, it is happiness brought into the soul by the Holy Spirit, and maintained there by the same influence. This is a genuine counterpart of heaven; righteousness without sin, Peace without inward disturbance, Joy without any kind of mental agony or distressing fear. See the note on Mat 3:2.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
For the kingdom of God--or, as we should say, Religion; that is, the proper business and blessedness for which Christians are formed into a community of renewed men in thorough subjection to God (compare Co1 4:20). is not meat and drink--"eating and drinking" but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost--a beautiful and comprehensive division of living Christianity. The first--"righteousness"--has respect to God, denoting here "rectitude," in its widest sense (as in Mat 6:33); the second--"peace"--has respect to our neighbors, denoting "concord" among brethren (as is plain from Rom 14:19; compare Eph 4:3; Col 3:14-15); the third--"joy in the Holy Ghost"--has respect to ourselves. This phrase, "joy in the Holy Ghost," represents Christians as so thinking and feeling under the workings of the Holy Ghost, that their joy may be viewed rather as that of the blessed Agent who inspires it than their own (compare Th1 1:6).
John Gill Bible Commentary
For he that in these things serveth Christ,.... That is, in righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost; he whose faith is an obedient one, and embraces these things, and from the heart obeys them; who seeks righteousness alone by Christ, and peace and pardon through his blood; who rejoices in Christ Jesus, and puts no trust in the flesh, in moral duties or ceremonial services; and who, from principles of grace, serves Christ in a way of righteousness, wherein he possesses true peace of conscience, and abundance of spiritual joy and comfort: the Alexandrian copy and some others, and the Vulgate Latin version, read, "in this thing"; as if it referred only to the right use of Christian liberty, about things indifferent: such an one is acceptable to God; in Christ the beloved, in whom he believes, from whom he derives all his peace, joy, and comfort; and whom he serves in righteousness and holiness, and through whom also all his services are acceptable unto God: and approved of men; of good men, of such that can discern things that differ, and approve those that are excellent; and even of bad men, for such who live honestly and uprightly, who cultivate peace and friendship among men, and carry themselves cheerfully and civilly to all men, cannot but be approved of by the generality of them, though they may dislike them on other accounts.