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Romans 14:8
Verse
Context
The Law of Liberty
7For none of us lives to himself alone, and none of us dies to himself alone.8If we live, we live to the Lord, and if we die, we die to the Lord. So whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord.9For this reason Christ died and returned to life, that He might be the Lord of both the dead and the living.
Sermons



Summary
Commentary
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
For whether we live, we live unto the Lord--the Lord CHRIST; see Rom 14:9. and whether we die, we die unto the Lord; whether we live therefore, or die, we are the Lord's--Nothing but the most vivid explanation of these remarkable words could make them endurable to any Christian ear, if Christ were a mere creature. For Christ is here--in the most emphatic terms, and yet in the most unimpassioned tone--held up as the supreme Object of the Christian's life, and of his death too; and that by the man whose horror of creature worship was such, that when the poor Lycaonians would have worshipped him, he rushed forth to arrest the deed, directing them to "the living God," as the only legitimate Object of worship (Act 14:15). Nor does Paul teach this here, but rather appeals to it as a known and recognized fact, of which he had only to remind his readers. And since the apostle, when he wrote these words, had never been at Rome, he could only know that the Roman Christians would assent to this view of Christ, because it was the common teaching of all the accredited preachers of Christianity, and the common faith of all Christians.
John Gill Bible Commentary
For whether we live, we live unto the Lord,.... As natural, so spiritual life is derived from the Lord, and believers live by faith upon him, and according to his will revealed in the word; find to his honour and glory; at least they desire so to do: and whether we die, we die unto the Lord; resigning up life unto him, whenever it is his pleasure; magnifying of him, as by life, so by death; dying to be with him, to be raised again by him, and live with him for evermore; in the faith and hope of this, the believer both lives and dies, and so glorifies Christ both in life and death: hence this conclusion follows, whether we live therefore or die, we are the Lord's; by the gift of the Father to him, by his own purchase, and the power of his grace, making them willing to give up themselves to him: and hence it is, that under a sense of this, that they are his, and not their own, nor another's, they do all they do for his glory; whether they observe, or not observe a day, it is to the Lord; whether they eat, or not eat things formerly forbidden, it is to him; and whether they live or die, it is to the Lord, whose they are: and hence also it is, that they are not to be despised and set at nought, or to be judged and censured by one another, since they belong to another master, who is their Lord, and will be their Judge.
Romans 14:8
The Law of Liberty
7For none of us lives to himself alone, and none of us dies to himself alone.8If we live, we live to the Lord, and if we die, we die to the Lord. So whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord.9For this reason Christ died and returned to life, that He might be the Lord of both the dead and the living.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Our Motto
By C.H. Spurgeon2.1K52:36PSA 71:17ROM 14:8EPH 6:7In this sermon, the preacher describes a scenario of a bondsman under a tyrant master who is enduring cruelties and feels hopeless in his situation. The bondsman, who is also a Christian, seeks solace in prayer and the Lord Jesus appears to him in a vision. Jesus offers the bondsman rich consolation and strength to endure his circumstances and glorify His name. The preacher encourages all believers, whether servants or masters, to adopt the motto of serving the Lord and not men in their lives. The sermon emphasizes the importance of finding purpose and motivation in our work through our relationship with Jesus.
The Shameful Sufferer
By C.H. Spurgeon1.6K53:18MAT 6:33MAT 27:31ROM 14:82CO 5:21GAL 6:14PHP 1:21HEB 12:2In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the shame and suffering that Jesus endured on the cross. He vividly describes the physical torment Jesus experienced, from being flung onto the rough wood of the cross to having his flesh torn by the iron nails. The preacher emphasizes the shame Jesus endured, being naked and exposed to the gaze of onlookers while hanging on the cross. Despite being in excruciating pain and facing humiliation, Jesus willingly endured it all for the joy that was set before him. The preacher encourages the audience to reflect on this shameful suffering and to see Jesus as an admirable example of selfless love and sacrifice.
To Die in Christ Is Gain - Tim Conway Interviews Bob Jennings
By Bob Jennings1.1K14:582CH 25:2PSA 90:12ECC 9:10ROM 6:23ROM 14:81CO 10:31PHP 1:21COL 3:231PE 4:101JN 1:9This sermon reflects on the importance of wholehearted devotion to God, using the example of Amaziah who did what was right but not with all his heart. It delves into a conversation about facing mortality, the brevity of life, and the privilege of serving the Lord. The speaker emphasizes the need to live each day for Christ, make every moment count, and ultimately find consolation in loving and serving the Lord wholeheartedly, especially in the face of death.
Christ Is the Absolute Owner of Everything
By Tim Conway72004:24PSA 24:1LUK 14:33ROM 14:81CO 6:19COL 1:16This sermon emphasizes the concept that Christ is the absolute owner of everything, highlighting how all things belong to Him, from material possessions like cars and property to spiritual entities like demons and souls. The message underscores the sovereignty of Christ over all aspects of life, challenging believers to recognize His ownership and authority in every area of their existence.
Bristol Conference 1977-03 Msg,and Man of Model Ch.
By Stan Ford41745:42JHN 13:34JHN 14:1ROM 14:81TH 4:111TH 5:182TH 3:10JAS 5:16In this sermon, the speaker begins by emphasizing the importance of living a life that pleases God. He then moves on to discuss the need for believers to bring comfort to others and to offer thanks to the Lord. The sermon then transitions to chapter four of 1 Thessalonians, where the speaker focuses on our attitude towards the present and our assurance of the future. The speaker highlights the belief in the resurrection of Jesus and the promise that those who sleep in Jesus will be brought with Him. The sermon concludes with an exhortation to encourage one another with these words.
The Death of Saints Precious
By Charles Finney0Death of SaintsEternal LifePSA 116:15ISA 57:1MAT 5:4JHN 14:2ROM 14:82CO 5:8PHP 1:211TH 4:131PE 1:3REV 21:4Charles Finney emphasizes the preciousness of the death of saints in God's sight, explaining that their transition to eternal rest is a source of joy for both God and the departed. He outlines reasons why this event is precious, including God's deep love for His children, the joy of their eternal happiness, and the glory it brings to Him. Finney also encourages believers to view the death of saints as precious, urging them to align their perspectives with God's, recognizing the joy and glory that accompany such transitions. He addresses common reasons for our failure to see death in this light, such as selfishness and unbelief, and concludes with a call to rejoice in God's mercies and the hope of eternal life.
The Mutual Gain of Christ and Christians in Their Life and Death.
By John Gill0The Gain of DeathLife in ChristMRK 10:30JHN 11:25ROM 8:32ROM 14:81CO 15:552CO 5:8PHP 1:211TH 4:14HEB 6:191JN 1:7John Gill preaches on the profound truth that for believers, life is centered around Christ and death is a gain, emphasizing that both living and dying serve to glorify Christ. He reflects on the life of Reverend Joseph Stennett, illustrating how his ministry was dedicated to Christ and how his death is a gain, not only for him but also for the glory of God. Gill explains that in life, Christ is everything to the believer, providing wisdom, righteousness, and redemption, while in death, believers are freed from sin and enter into eternal communion with Christ. The sermon encourages the congregation to find hope in the promise of eternal life and the joy of being with Christ after death.
That Dead Man or Dead Woman
By Thomas Brooks0Hope in ChristDeath of the RighteousNUM 23:10PSA 116:15PRO 14:32JHN 11:25ROM 14:82CO 5:1PHP 1:211TH 4:14HEB 12:1REV 14:13Thomas Brooks emphasizes the contrasting fates of the wicked and the righteous in his sermon 'That Dead Man or Dead Woman.' He laments the fate of the wicked, who face torment and despair, while celebrating the joyous welcome that awaits departed believers in heaven. Brooks encourages the congregation to aspire to die the death of the righteous, highlighting the preciousness of a saint's death in God's eyes.
The Common Inn of All Mankind
By Thomas Brooks0MortalityThe Inevitability of DeathJOB 14:1PSA 90:10ECC 8:8ISA 40:6ROM 14:82CO 5:10HEB 9:27JAS 4:141PE 1:24REV 21:4Thomas Brooks emphasizes that death is the inevitable fate of all humanity, regardless of social status or wealth. He illustrates that death treats everyone equally, from the highest monarch to the lowest beggar, highlighting the futility of trying to escape its grasp. Brooks reminds us that no one can resist death, as it is a universal truth that we all must face. He references Ecclesiastes 8:8 and Hebrews 9:27 to underline the certainty of death and the subsequent judgment that follows. The sermon serves as a poignant reminder of our mortality and the importance of living with this reality in mind.
"Yet Shall He Live"
By A.W. Tozer0Perspective on DeathEternal LifePSA 116:15JHN 11:25JHN 14:2ROM 14:81CO 15:542CO 5:8PHP 1:211TH 4:14HEB 2:14REV 21:4A.W. Tozer emphasizes that for a believing Christian, death is not the worst fate but rather a transition to eternal life with Christ. He recalls a conversation with Harry M. Shuman, who highlighted that death represents victory and rest, contrasting it with the struggles of life. Tozer reflects on the Apostle Paul's desire to depart and be with Christ, affirming that this longing is a source of hope and comfort for believers. The sermon encourages Christians to view death as a journey rather than an end, fostering a deeper appreciation for eternal life.
He With Us; We With Him
By C.H. Spurgeon0Fear Of The LordLiving PurposefullyPSA 23:4PSA 90:12PRO 10:27ECC 3:1ISA 26:3JHN 14:3ROM 14:81CO 15:58PHP 1:212TI 4:7C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes the importance of fearing the Lord as a means to prolong life, highlighting that virtuous habits fostered by faith can prevent the wastefulness of sin. He notes that a peaceful mind, rooted in confidence in God, contributes to physical well-being, while worry can be detrimental. Spurgeon encourages believers to embrace life with the expectation of longevity, yet also to be prepared for the joy of being with Jesus in death. Ultimately, he calls for living purposefully and using every moment for the highest purposes, whether in life or death.
Are You Prepared to Die?
By C.H. Spurgeon0Faith in ChristPreparation for DeathPSA 23:4ISA 41:10JHN 14:1ROM 14:81CO 15:55PHP 1:211TH 4:132TI 4:7HEB 4:3REV 21:4C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes the importance of being prepared for death, likening the transition from life to death to crossing the Jordan River into the promised land of Canaan. He urges Christians to reflect on their faith and readiness, as many live in a state of spiritual wilderness rather than the rest and joy found in a strong relationship with God. Spurgeon challenges listeners to consider their personal readiness for death, highlighting that it is a solemn and practical question that requires individual reflection. He reassures believers that through faith in Christ, they can face death with hope and peace, looking forward to eternal life. Ultimately, he calls for a life of active service and obedience to God as the best preparation for the end of life.
Homesick for Heaven
By H.C.G. Moule0Living with PurposeEternal LifeMAT 6:20JHN 14:2ROM 14:81CO 15:542CO 5:8PHP 1:21COL 3:11TH 4:13HEB 12:1REV 21:4H.C.G. Moule emphasizes the balance between living fully in the present and longing for the eternal joy of being with Christ. He asserts that the believer finds purpose and zest in life through their relationship with Jesus, which makes the prospect of death not a loss but a gain, as it leads to a deeper communion with Him. Moule encourages believers to focus on their duties and service in this life, motivated by the hope of eternal fellowship with Christ. He highlights that the joy of duty and the anticipation of heaven coexist, enriching the believer's experience on earth. Ultimately, the sermon reflects on the blessedness of death for the faithful, who transition from this life to a state of being 'far, far better' with Christ.
He and He Alone
By Martyn-Lloyd Jones0Passion for GodLiving For ChristMAT 6:21JHN 10:10ROM 14:82CO 5:15GAL 2:20EPH 3:19PHP 1:21PHP 3:8COL 3:41PE 1:8Martyn-Lloyd Jones emphasizes the profound statement made by the Apostle Paul, 'To me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain.' He explores the essence of true living, which is centered on Christ, contrasting it with various worldly views of life. The preacher challenges the congregation to reflect on their own lives and whether they can genuinely say that Christ is the center of their existence. He warns against the dangers of living for anything other than Christ, urging believers to cultivate a passionate relationship with Him. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a revival of this passion for Christ in the hearts of Christians.
Philemon I. 4-6
By St. John Chrysostom0LUK 17:7ROM 14:8PHP 3:13PHM 1:4JAS 2:26John Chrysostom preaches on the importance of humility and forgiveness, using the example of Paul's letter to Philemon regarding Onesimus. Chrysostom emphasizes the need for masters to show compassion and forgiveness towards their servants, not being harsh or proud, but rather humble and willing to pardon offenses. He highlights the power of love and the transformation it brings, urging listeners to imitate Christ's love and humility in their relationships. Chrysostom encourages a deep reflection on one's actions, motivations, and the genuine practice of humility, reminding believers that true humility is not for self-glorification but for the glory of God.
What Does It Mean to Be Firstborn?
By Anton Bosch0EXO 4:22NUM 3:13DEU 21:17ROM 14:8COL 1:18HEB 12:15HEB 12:231PE 1:4REV 5:10Anton Bosch delves into the privileges and responsibilities of being the firstborn in the Old Testament, highlighting the greater inheritance, blessing, succession rights, and special place in the father's heart that the firstborn received. He draws parallels between the firstborn in families and the concept of Israel as God's firstborn, emphasizing the consecration and dedication required of the firstborn. In the New Testament, believers are referred to as the 'church of the firstborn,' signifying their special and privileged status as children of God, each receiving an inheritance, blessing, and favored treatment from the Father.
And I Heard a Voice From Heaven Saying Unto Me, Write, Blessed Are the Dead Which Die in the Lord
By John Calvin0JHN 11:25ROM 14:81CO 15:221TH 4:14REV 14:13John Calvin preaches about finding comfort and hope in the midst of loss, emphasizing that those who die in the Lord are blessed and find rest from their labors, with their works following them. He encourages the bereaved to trust in Christ's sovereignty over life and death, reminding them that those who belong to Christ are under His care. Calvin reassures that those who have passed away in Christ have reached maturity in the sight of the Lord and will be reunited with believers in the blessed resurrection in the kingdom of God.
Do All Things for Jesus' Sake
By Mary Wilder Tileston0MAT 16:24JHN 14:6ROM 14:8PHP 4:13COL 3:17Mary Wilder Tileston preaches about the importance of living a life fully dedicated to Jesus Christ, from the beginning to the end, in all circumstances, and with a heart of thanksgiving. She emphasizes the need to strip away selfishness and follow Jesus with simplicity, doing everything that pleases Him. Tileston encourages her listeners to find joy and peace in doing all things in the name of Jesus, as it brings pleasure, softness, and peace even in the midst of trials and challenges.
Testimony of George Fox Concerning Isaac Penington
By Isaac Penington0PSA 116:15JHN 11:26ROM 14:8COL 3:3REV 14:13Isaac Penington, a beloved minister of the gospel, has passed away, leaving behind a legacy of faith and service to the church of Christ. His life and works were a testimony to the power of God and the victory found in living by faith. As believers, we are called to live in a way that magnifies Christ, whether in life or death, knowing that we belong to the Lord. Penington's memory is blessed, and his life serves as an example of living in righteousness and dying in the Lord, precious in God's sight.
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
For whether we live, we live unto the Lord--the Lord CHRIST; see Rom 14:9. and whether we die, we die unto the Lord; whether we live therefore, or die, we are the Lord's--Nothing but the most vivid explanation of these remarkable words could make them endurable to any Christian ear, if Christ were a mere creature. For Christ is here--in the most emphatic terms, and yet in the most unimpassioned tone--held up as the supreme Object of the Christian's life, and of his death too; and that by the man whose horror of creature worship was such, that when the poor Lycaonians would have worshipped him, he rushed forth to arrest the deed, directing them to "the living God," as the only legitimate Object of worship (Act 14:15). Nor does Paul teach this here, but rather appeals to it as a known and recognized fact, of which he had only to remind his readers. And since the apostle, when he wrote these words, had never been at Rome, he could only know that the Roman Christians would assent to this view of Christ, because it was the common teaching of all the accredited preachers of Christianity, and the common faith of all Christians.
John Gill Bible Commentary
For whether we live, we live unto the Lord,.... As natural, so spiritual life is derived from the Lord, and believers live by faith upon him, and according to his will revealed in the word; find to his honour and glory; at least they desire so to do: and whether we die, we die unto the Lord; resigning up life unto him, whenever it is his pleasure; magnifying of him, as by life, so by death; dying to be with him, to be raised again by him, and live with him for evermore; in the faith and hope of this, the believer both lives and dies, and so glorifies Christ both in life and death: hence this conclusion follows, whether we live therefore or die, we are the Lord's; by the gift of the Father to him, by his own purchase, and the power of his grace, making them willing to give up themselves to him: and hence it is, that under a sense of this, that they are his, and not their own, nor another's, they do all they do for his glory; whether they observe, or not observe a day, it is to the Lord; whether they eat, or not eat things formerly forbidden, it is to him; and whether they live or die, it is to the Lord, whose they are: and hence also it is, that they are not to be despised and set at nought, or to be judged and censured by one another, since they belong to another master, who is their Lord, and will be their Judge.