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Romans 14:5
Verse
Context
The Law of Liberty
4Who are you to judge someone else’s servant? To his own master he stands or falls. And he will stand, for the Lord is able to make him stand.5One person regards a certain day above the others, while someone else considers every day alike. Each one should be fully convinced in his own mind. 6He who observes a special day does so to the Lord; he who eats does so to the Lord, for he gives thanks to God; and he who abstains does so to the Lord and gives thanks to God.
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
One man esteemeth one day above another - Perhaps the word ἡμεραν, day, is here taken for time, festival, and such like, in which sense it is frequently used. Reference is made here to the Jewish institutions, and especially their festivals; such as the passover, pentecost, feast of tabernacles, new moons, jubilee, etc. The converted Jew still thought these of moral obligation; the Gentile Christian not having been bred up in this way had no such prejudices. And as those who were the instruments of bringing him to the knowledge of God gave him no such injunctions, consequently he paid to these no religious regard. Another - The converted Gentile esteemeth every day - considers that all time is the Lord's, and that each day should be devoted to the glory of God; and that those festivals are not binding on him. We add here alike, and make the text say what I am sure was never intended, viz. that there is no distinction of days, not even of the Sabbath: and that every Christian is at liberty to consider even this day to be holy or not holy, as he happens to be persuaded in his own mind. That the Sabbath is of lasting obligation may be reasonably concluded from its institution (see the note on Gen 2:3) and from its typical reference. All allow that the Sabbath is a type of that rest in glory which remains for the people of God. Now, all types are intended to continue in full force till the antitype, or thing signified, take place; consequently, the Sabbath will continue in force till the consummation of all things. The word alike should not be added; nor is it acknowledged by any MS. or ancient version. Let every man be fully persuaded - With respect to the propriety or non-propriety of keeping the above festivals, let every man act from the plenary conviction of his own mind; there is a sufficient latitude allowed: all may be fully satisfied.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
One man esteemeth one day above another: another esteemeth every day--The supplement "alike" should be omitted, as injuring the sense. Let every man be fully persuaded in his own mind--be guided in such matters by conscientious conviction.
John Gill Bible Commentary
One man esteemeth one day above another,.... This is another instance of the difference of sentiments in this church, about the observation of rituals; and is not to be understood of days appointed by the Christian churches for fasting, or abstinence from certain meats, either once a year, as the "Quadragesima", or Lent; or twice a week, as Wednesdays and Fridays; for these are things of much later observation, and which had never been introduced into the church of Rome in the apostle's time; nor were there any disputes about them: much less of days of Heathenish observation, as lucky or unlucky, or festivals in honour of their gods; for the apostle would never say, that a man who regarded such a day, regarded it to the Lord; nor would have advised to a coalition and Christian conversation with such a man, but rather to exclude him from all society and communion: it remains, therefore, that it must be understood of Jewish days, or of such as were appointed to be observed by the Jews under the former dispensation, and which some thought were still to be regarded; wherefore they esteemed some days in the year above others, as the days of unleavened bread, or the passover; particularly the first night, which was a night to be observed throughout their generations; and in their service for it to this day, use these words, , "how different is this night from every other night" (n)? and the feast of tabernacles, especially the last and great day of the feast, and the day of Pentecost; also one day in a month above others, the first day of the month, or new moon; and one day in a week, the seventh day sabbath: now there were some, who thought that the laws respecting these days were still in force, particularly the latter, and therefore esteemed it above another: but let it be observed, that the man that did so was one that was weak in faith; the same man that ate herbs, because he would not be guilty of violating those laws, which ordered a distinction of meats to be observed, the same weak man esteemed one day above another, imagining the laws concerning the distinction of days were still obligatory, not rightly understanding the doctrine of Christian liberty, or freedom from the yoke of the ceremonial law: another esteemeth every day alike; that is, one that is strong in faith, and has a greater degree of the knowledge of the Gospel, and of evangelical liberty, knows that the distinction of days, as well as of meats, is taken away, since the word was made flesh, and tabernacled among us, Christ the passover is sacrificed for us, the firstfruits of the Spirit have been received, and light by the church from the sun of righteousness, and Christ the true sabbath and rest is come; and therefore, being firmly persuaded there is no more holiness in days than there is in places, has the same regard for one day as another. The difference between these two lay here, the weak brother regarded a day for the sake of a day, as having by a positive law, he supposed to be in force, a superiority to another, and he regarded worship for the sake of this day; the stronger brother, though he also observed a day for divine worship, which is the Lord's day, since there must be some time for it as well as place, yet he observed the day for the sake of worship, and not worship for the sake of the day: let every man be fully persuaded in his own mind; this is the advice the apostle gives to both parties; his sense is, that he would have each of them fully enjoy their own principle and practice undisturbed; he would have the weak brother, that esteemed one day above another, indulged in his way, since it arose from weakness, until he had better light, nor should he be despised for his weakness; he would have the stronger Christian also peaceably enjoy his sentiment, and pursue what he believed to be right; nor should he be judged, censured, and condemned, as a profane person, and a transgressor of the law: his counsel is, that they would sit down and carefully examine the word of God, and act according to the best light they should receive from thence; and take care especially, that they did not act contrary to their own consciences, with doubt and hesitation; they ought to be thoroughly satisfied in their own minds, and being so, should content themselves with their different sentiments and practices, without despising or censuring one another. (n) Haggada Shel Pesach, p. 5.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
14:5 some think one day is more holy than another day, while others think every day is alike: The reference is probably to Jewish festival days and to the Sabbath; cp. Col 2:16. With Christ’s provision of salvation, observance of the Sabbath in its original form is not required of Christians.
Romans 14:5
The Law of Liberty
4Who are you to judge someone else’s servant? To his own master he stands or falls. And he will stand, for the Lord is able to make him stand.5One person regards a certain day above the others, while someone else considers every day alike. Each one should be fully convinced in his own mind. 6He who observes a special day does so to the Lord; he who eats does so to the Lord, for he gives thanks to God; and he who abstains does so to the Lord and gives thanks to God.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
A Look at the Puritan Through Puritan Eyes
By J.I. Packer4.6K48:49ROM 14:51CO 10:31EPH 5:15COL 2:81TI 4:12JAS 4:171PE 2:9In this sermon, the speaker discusses the story of Carter, who played a central role in the next chapter of the story. The sermon is divided into three paragraphs: the leaders, the arguments, and the activities of the Puritan Presbyterianising movement. The speaker mentions that Carter and Field were imprisoned for writing a seditious document, which will be discussed in more detail in the next class. The sermon also mentions Elizabeth instructing Parker to enforce conformity in the Church of England, leading to some clergymen being deprived of their living for refusing to comply.
(Exodus) Exodus 36:1-2
By J. Vernon McGee2.8K05:23JDG 7:5MAT 6:33ROM 14:51CO 15:58COL 3:232TI 4:2In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of preaching the word of God with enthusiasm and eagerness. He criticizes a young preacher who lacks enthusiasm in his preaching and suggests that he should not be in the ministry if he does not love studying the word of God. The preacher uses the example of Bezalel, who worked diligently and eagerly in building the tabernacle, to illustrate the kind of attitude and passion that should be present in doing God's work. He also highlights the need for Christians to be fully persuaded and eager in their service to God, citing Paul's words in Romans 14:5.
Apostle's Doctrine - Part 4
By G.W. North2.5K1:29:04Apostles DoctrineROM 14:5In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of perseverance and obedience in the Christian faith. He encourages believers to continue on their spiritual journey, regardless of any challenges or discouragement they may face. The preacher also emphasizes the need to submit to the lordship of Christ and to prioritize worshiping and serving God above all else. He warns against compromising one's faith for worldly pleasures or conforming to societal norms. The sermon concludes with a reminder that love never fails and that understanding the heart of God is essential in living a faithful and fulfilling life.
Who Are the People Called Puritans?
By J.I. Packer2.3K49:57ROM 14:5In this video, the speaker begins by encouraging the audience to ask questions and seek clarification during the lecture. He then briefly mentions the importance of fathers leading their families in devotion and ensuring their participation in religious exercises. The speaker also discusses the concept of Calvinistic activism, which emphasizes the need for individuals to work out their own salvation with fear and trembling, as God is working within them. Lastly, he mentions the history and ideology of Puritanism, stating that the course will delve deeper into these topics in future lectures.
(Through the Bible) Genesis 37-38
By Chuck Smith1.5K49:59ExpositionalGEN 37:13GEN 37:31ROM 14:5REV 12:1In this sermon, the preacher discusses the story of Joseph from the Bible. Joseph's brothers, filled with resentment towards his dreams of greatness, conspire to kill him. However, Reuben, the oldest brother, intervenes and suggests they don't shed blood. Instead, they deceive their father into believing that Joseph was killed by an animal. The preacher draws parallels between Joseph and Jesus Christ, highlighting Satan's attempt to destroy Jesus and thwart God's plans. The sermon emphasizes the guilt and remorse felt by Joseph's brothers even 20 years later, showing the consequences of their heartless actions.
Each One Should Be Fully Convinced in His Own Mind
By John Piper1.5K39:39ROM 14:2ROM 14:5ROM 14:10ROM 14:17ROM 14:22In this sermon, the preacher discusses how Paul addresses a seemingly insignificant issue in the church regarding meat and vegetable eating. Despite the small nature of the dispute, Paul uses weighty biblical truths to address it. He emphasizes the importance of not despising or passing judgment on those with different dietary preferences. Paul then brings in the concept of life and death, highlighting that our actions should ultimately glorify God and be done in service to Him. The preacher encourages the congregation to focus on the big things about God rather than getting caught up in minor disagreements.
Church History - Session 4 (Prophecy Fulfilled in History)
By Edgar F. Parkyns1.3K54:14MAT 6:33ROM 14:5GAL 4:10In this sermon, the speaker discusses the coming of a man of sin who is described as being influenced by Satan. This man will possess great power, perform signs and wonders, and deceive those who do not love the truth. The speaker also talks about the Christian Church, which had lost sight of Christ and salvation by grace through faith. Instead, it embraced a new head, the vicar of Christ, who held authority over kings and played a role in the division of the Roman Empire. The sermon also touches on the danger of being influenced by external rituals and traditions instead of focusing on the liberty of faith in Christ.
Is There a "Lord’s Day"?
By John Piper1.1K38:58HOS 6:6MAT 12:1MAT 12:7MRK 2:27JHN 5:16ROM 14:1ROM 14:5In this sermon, Pastor John Piper discusses the importance of the Lord's day and the concept of Sabbath rest. He emphasizes that setting apart a specific day for worship and rest as a family is essential. He also mentions the importance of showing mercy and reaching out to others, such as visiting nursing homes or singing for the elderly. The sermon references Romans 14:5, which discusses the different perspectives on the observance of certain days. Pastor Piper concludes by highlighting Jesus' actions on the Sabbath, demonstrating that doing good and showing mercy is lawful and pleasing to God.
Our Lord Teaching Regarding the Sabbath Mark 2:23 to 3:6
By R.A. Torrey0SabbathMercyEXO 23:12DEU 5:14MAT 12:1MAT 23:23MRK 2:27LUK 6:1ROM 14:5GAL 5:18COL 2:16R.A. Torrey emphasizes that the Sabbath was created for the benefit of humanity, not as a burden, and that the needs of people take precedence over rigid ceremonial laws. He illustrates this through Jesus' defense of His disciples when they were criticized for picking grain on the Sabbath, highlighting that acts of mercy and necessity are lawful on this day. Torrey also discusses the healing of a man with a withered hand, showcasing Jesus' compassion and authority, and the Pharisees' hardened hearts that prioritized law over love. The sermon calls for a deeper understanding of the Sabbath's purpose and the importance of compassion in our actions. Ultimately, it challenges listeners to reflect on their own attitudes towards the law and mercy.
Steadfastness in Conviction
By Duncan Campbell0SteadfastnessConvictionPRO 24:21JHN 3:3ROM 14:5TIT 3:5Duncan Campbell emphasizes the importance of steadfastness in conviction, drawing from Proverbs 24:21 to highlight the need for unwavering faith in God's Word amidst a changing world. He reflects on the Lewis revival, where deep conviction led many to experience the saving grace of God, rooted in a firm belief in the authority of Scripture. Campbell warns against a diluted Christianity that neglects the necessity of repentance and the transformative power of the Holy Spirit, urging believers to proclaim the full counsel of God with conviction. He calls for a return to the fundamental truths of the Gospel, asserting that true Christian experience is marked by a supernatural transformation rather than mere decision-making. Ultimately, he stresses that a life lived in the Spirit, marked by steadfastness and conviction, is essential for effective witness and revival.
Questions/answers on the Sabbath
By James Blaine Chapman0ACT 20:7ROM 14:5GAL 5:1COL 2:16HEB 4:9James Blaine Chapman addresses the misconception that the Roman Catholic Church changed the Sabbath day from Saturday to Sunday, clarifying that the Christian Sabbath has always been observed on Sunday to commemorate the Lord's Resurrection. He explains the historical context of the Jewish Sabbath and the Christian Sabbath, emphasizing the spiritual rest and holiness that believers experience through the Holy Spirit. Chapman encourages believers to focus on entering into the spiritual rest provided by God, rather than getting caught up in legalistic debates about specific days of the week.
The Lord's Day and the New Creation
By Lewis Sperry Chafer0PSA 118:22JHN 20:19ACT 2:1ACT 15:13ROM 6:4ROM 14:52CO 5:17EPH 5:25COL 2:12Lewis Sperry Chafer emphasizes the celebration of the first day of the week by the church since Christ's resurrection, contrasting it with the observance of the seventh-day Sabbath. He delves into the New Creation, highlighting believers' new relationships of grace and their individual divine transformations. Chafer explains the significance of the Lord's Day, prophesied under grace, and supported by various events like Christ's resurrection and the descent of the Holy Spirit. He clarifies that the observance of the Lord's Day is not imposed on the unsaved or the Church as a whole, but is a personal commitment to worship and serve God with liberty and grace.
On Fasting
By Timothy Tow0EST 4:16PSA 69:10ISA 58:6DAN 9:3MAT 6:16ACT 14:23ROM 14:51CO 8:8EPH 2:8Timothy Tow preaches about the dangers of seeking salvation through works, highlighting the different forms of salvation by works in various religions and denominations, including fasting, charity giving, and penance. He emphasizes the importance of salvation by grace through faith in Jesus Christ, as stated in Ephesians 2:8-9, and warns against trying to earn salvation through Church rules and good deeds. Tow also discusses the biblical perspective on fasting, showing that it is a means to draw closer to God through prayer and submission to the Spirit, as seen in examples like David, Daniel, Esther, and Paul and Barnabas.
But Thou Oh Man of God
By Edwin Fesche0NUM 10:29MAT 7:7JHN 2:17ROM 14:52CO 3:17EPH 3:10Edwin Fesche discusses the history and principles of the brethren movement, emphasizing their adherence to the cardinal truths of Scripture while differing in views on Church Truth and the role of an officiating minister. The brethren movement advocates for separation from worldly Christianity, leading to their unpopularity but also stripping away pride and emphasizing a return to New Testament Church principles. Fesche challenges believers to prioritize Scripture in upholding brethren principles, highlighting the importance of being fully persuaded by God's Word rather than human shortcomings or popular opinions.
The Root of Popery Struck At
By Isaac Penington0JHN 3:8ROM 14:51CO 1:102CO 10:42CO 11:3REV 18:4REV 19:1Isaac Penington preaches about the importance of being begotten and born of God's Spirit to enter His kingdom, emphasizing the need to turn to the Spirit for preservation and to avoid the fleshly wisdom that corrupts the work of God. He highlights the difficulty of abiding in the truth amidst the allure of man's wisdom and reasoning, urging listeners to keep to the simplicity and light of the gospel. Penington also addresses the true unity found in the Spirit and truth, warning against departing from the living principle that unites believers and the danger of setting up false images of unity. He calls for a cessation from man's understanding and wisdom, directing individuals to seek God as the source of eternal peace and salvation.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
One man esteemeth one day above another - Perhaps the word ἡμεραν, day, is here taken for time, festival, and such like, in which sense it is frequently used. Reference is made here to the Jewish institutions, and especially their festivals; such as the passover, pentecost, feast of tabernacles, new moons, jubilee, etc. The converted Jew still thought these of moral obligation; the Gentile Christian not having been bred up in this way had no such prejudices. And as those who were the instruments of bringing him to the knowledge of God gave him no such injunctions, consequently he paid to these no religious regard. Another - The converted Gentile esteemeth every day - considers that all time is the Lord's, and that each day should be devoted to the glory of God; and that those festivals are not binding on him. We add here alike, and make the text say what I am sure was never intended, viz. that there is no distinction of days, not even of the Sabbath: and that every Christian is at liberty to consider even this day to be holy or not holy, as he happens to be persuaded in his own mind. That the Sabbath is of lasting obligation may be reasonably concluded from its institution (see the note on Gen 2:3) and from its typical reference. All allow that the Sabbath is a type of that rest in glory which remains for the people of God. Now, all types are intended to continue in full force till the antitype, or thing signified, take place; consequently, the Sabbath will continue in force till the consummation of all things. The word alike should not be added; nor is it acknowledged by any MS. or ancient version. Let every man be fully persuaded - With respect to the propriety or non-propriety of keeping the above festivals, let every man act from the plenary conviction of his own mind; there is a sufficient latitude allowed: all may be fully satisfied.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
One man esteemeth one day above another: another esteemeth every day--The supplement "alike" should be omitted, as injuring the sense. Let every man be fully persuaded in his own mind--be guided in such matters by conscientious conviction.
John Gill Bible Commentary
One man esteemeth one day above another,.... This is another instance of the difference of sentiments in this church, about the observation of rituals; and is not to be understood of days appointed by the Christian churches for fasting, or abstinence from certain meats, either once a year, as the "Quadragesima", or Lent; or twice a week, as Wednesdays and Fridays; for these are things of much later observation, and which had never been introduced into the church of Rome in the apostle's time; nor were there any disputes about them: much less of days of Heathenish observation, as lucky or unlucky, or festivals in honour of their gods; for the apostle would never say, that a man who regarded such a day, regarded it to the Lord; nor would have advised to a coalition and Christian conversation with such a man, but rather to exclude him from all society and communion: it remains, therefore, that it must be understood of Jewish days, or of such as were appointed to be observed by the Jews under the former dispensation, and which some thought were still to be regarded; wherefore they esteemed some days in the year above others, as the days of unleavened bread, or the passover; particularly the first night, which was a night to be observed throughout their generations; and in their service for it to this day, use these words, , "how different is this night from every other night" (n)? and the feast of tabernacles, especially the last and great day of the feast, and the day of Pentecost; also one day in a month above others, the first day of the month, or new moon; and one day in a week, the seventh day sabbath: now there were some, who thought that the laws respecting these days were still in force, particularly the latter, and therefore esteemed it above another: but let it be observed, that the man that did so was one that was weak in faith; the same man that ate herbs, because he would not be guilty of violating those laws, which ordered a distinction of meats to be observed, the same weak man esteemed one day above another, imagining the laws concerning the distinction of days were still obligatory, not rightly understanding the doctrine of Christian liberty, or freedom from the yoke of the ceremonial law: another esteemeth every day alike; that is, one that is strong in faith, and has a greater degree of the knowledge of the Gospel, and of evangelical liberty, knows that the distinction of days, as well as of meats, is taken away, since the word was made flesh, and tabernacled among us, Christ the passover is sacrificed for us, the firstfruits of the Spirit have been received, and light by the church from the sun of righteousness, and Christ the true sabbath and rest is come; and therefore, being firmly persuaded there is no more holiness in days than there is in places, has the same regard for one day as another. The difference between these two lay here, the weak brother regarded a day for the sake of a day, as having by a positive law, he supposed to be in force, a superiority to another, and he regarded worship for the sake of this day; the stronger brother, though he also observed a day for divine worship, which is the Lord's day, since there must be some time for it as well as place, yet he observed the day for the sake of worship, and not worship for the sake of the day: let every man be fully persuaded in his own mind; this is the advice the apostle gives to both parties; his sense is, that he would have each of them fully enjoy their own principle and practice undisturbed; he would have the weak brother, that esteemed one day above another, indulged in his way, since it arose from weakness, until he had better light, nor should he be despised for his weakness; he would have the stronger Christian also peaceably enjoy his sentiment, and pursue what he believed to be right; nor should he be judged, censured, and condemned, as a profane person, and a transgressor of the law: his counsel is, that they would sit down and carefully examine the word of God, and act according to the best light they should receive from thence; and take care especially, that they did not act contrary to their own consciences, with doubt and hesitation; they ought to be thoroughly satisfied in their own minds, and being so, should content themselves with their different sentiments and practices, without despising or censuring one another. (n) Haggada Shel Pesach, p. 5.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
14:5 some think one day is more holy than another day, while others think every day is alike: The reference is probably to Jewish festival days and to the Sabbath; cp. Col 2:16. With Christ’s provision of salvation, observance of the Sabbath in its original form is not required of Christians.