Romans 2:4
Verse
Context
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Or despisest thou the riches of his goodness - Wilt thou render of none effect that marked benevolence of God towards thee which has given so many superior advantages, and that forbearance which has tolerated thy many miscarriages, and that long-suffering which, after repeated provocations, still continues to bear with thee? Not knowing - Αγνοων, not acknowledging that this goodness of God, which has so long manifested itself in forbearance and long-suffering, leadeth thee to repentance - was designed to accomplish this blessed end; which thy want of consideration and acknowledgment has rendered, hitherto, ineffectual. This was a maxim among the Jews themselves; for, in Synopsis Sohar, it is said: - The holy blessed God delays his anger against the wicked, to the end that they may repent and be converted.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Or despisest thou the riches of his goodness,.... The apostle anticipates an objection against what he had said, taken from the prosperity of these persons; who might conclude from thence, that they were not so wicked as he had represented them; and that they should escape the judgment of God, otherwise they would have been punished by God in this life, and not have prospered as they did; which objection is removed by observing, that it was not their innocence, but "the riches of" divine "goodness, and longsuffering and forbearance", which were the causes of their prosperity: by "the riches of God's goodness", are not meant the riches of his special, spiritual, and eternal goodness, which his own people are only partakers of: but the general riches of his temporal and providential goodness, which the men of the world have commonly the greatest share of; they have it in great plenty, which is signified by "riches": and by his "longsuffering and forbearance" are designed, not his forbearance of his chosen ones and his longsuffering to them, which issue in their salvation; but his forbearance of sinners, and longsuffering towards them, in not as yet pouring down his wrath and displeasure on them; all which are "despised" by them; the riches of his goodness, when he is not glorified for his providential mercies, and in them, and when these are abused to the lusts of men. The forbearance of God is despised, when men on account of it harden themselves in sin; and his longsuffering, when they deny his concern in Providence, or a future judgment, and promise themselves impunity. Moreover, the apostle obviates the above objection by asserting that God's end in his goodness, forbearance, and longsuffering, was not to testify to their innocence, as they imagined, but to lead them to repentance, of which they were ignorant; not knowing that the goodness of God leadeth thee to repentance. This is to be understood not of a spiritual and evangelical repentance, which is a free grace gift, and which none but the Spirit of God can lead, or bring persons to; but of a natural and legal repentance, which lies in an external sorrow for sin, and in an outward cessation from it, and reformation of life and manners, which the goodness of God to the Jews should have led them to; who had a large share of the good things of life, a land flowing with milk and honey, and many outward privileges which other nations had not, as the giving of the law, the covenant and promises, the word and ordinances; and repentance here chiefly designs, as it may respect the Gentiles, a change of mind and practice in them relating to idolatry and superstition Now the providential goodness of God has a tendency to lead persons to repentance on this account; but of this end of divine goodness the Gentiles were ignorant; nor was this end answered thereby; which shows the wretched depravity of human nature; see Act 14:15.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
2:4 Can’t you see that his kindness is intended to turn you from your sin? Behind Paul’s question are Jewish passages (e.g., Wisdom of Solomon 12–15; cp. Jer 7:1-5; Amos 5:18-27) that portray a prevalent Jewish complacency toward judgment. Many Jews thought that because they were God’s people, they did not need to worry about judgment, for their sins would not be punished as the sins of Gentiles would be. Paul emphasizes that God’s grace was intended to turn the Jews from their sin, not to condone a sinful lifestyle.
Romans 2:4
God’s Righteous Judgment
3So when you, O man, pass judgment on others, yet do the same things, do you think you will escape God’s judgment?4Or do you disregard the riches of His kindness, tolerance, and patience, not realizing that God’s kindness leads you to repentance?
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Whatever Happened to Repentance?
By David Wilkerson9.0K00:00RepentanceMAT 4:17MAT 23:37MRK 16:16LUK 5:32ACT 2:38ROM 2:4HEB 6:1In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of repentance and the forgiveness of sins through the blood of Jesus. He urges the congregation to come forward and confess their sins, both believers and non-believers alike. The preacher encourages everyone to be open and honest with God, confessing any hidden sins and seeking Godly sorrow in their hearts. He reminds the audience that all of heaven rejoices when even one sinner repents. The sermon concludes with a call to ask God to reveal where each individual stands in their relationship with Him.
Brownie Points- Grace and Works
By Francis Chan7.6K33:24ROM 2:4This sermon emphasizes the importance of understanding God's grace and how it should lead to action in our lives. It addresses the misconception of earning God's love through works and highlights the need for genuine repentance and a desire to do good works out of love for God. The sermon uses real-life examples to illustrate the transformative power of God's grace and the eagerness it should instill in believers to serve Him wholeheartedly.
A Missional Encounter
By Jackie Pullinger6.8K47:42MissionsGEN 3:9EXO 19:16EXO 33:18ROM 2:4In this sermon, the speaker discusses the story of Moses and the encounter with God on Mount Sinai. The people were afraid of approaching God because of His power and might. However, God revealed Himself to Moses as a kind, compassionate, and merciful God. The speaker emphasizes the importance of showing kindness to others, especially the poor and hungry, as it reflects the character of God. The sermon concludes with a call to make a spiritual move in the heart in preparation for a physical move to Wanchai.
What Is Real Christianity?
By Paul Washer5.3K1:12:31GEN 6:5MAT 10:28MAT 22:37JHN 14:6ROM 2:41CO 15:1REV 6:16In this sermon, the preacher passionately delivers the gospel of Jesus Christ, urging the listeners to repent and turn to God. He emphasizes the fallen nature of humanity, using examples of extreme acts of violence and the existence of laws as evidence. The preacher also highlights the need for mercy and the consequences of rejecting God's truth. He references Bible verses, such as Isaiah 64:6-7, to support his points about the sinful state of mankind. Overall, the sermon calls for a response to the message of salvation and warns of the eternal consequences of rejecting God.
Understanding Your Temptations
By David Wilkerson5.0K50:40EXO 4:10PSA 103:10MAT 7:11ROM 2:4ROM 8:1EPH 2:4In this sermon, the preacher shares his personal struggle with temptation and feeling different from other Christians. He explains how he was rescued by the Word of the Lord and the Holy Spirit. The sermon focuses on understanding temptations and lays the foundation key for overcoming them. The preacher emphasizes that fear of God alone is not enough to prevent rebellion, as seen in the story of the Israelites in the wilderness. Instead, he highlights the tender mercies of God, who surprises us with love and grace despite our rebellion.
The Human Face of God
By David Wilkerson4.9K55:00MAT 23:33JHN 20:19JHN 21:1ROM 2:41TI 2:42TI 3:162TI 4:2In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of preaching both the goodness and severity of God to produce a healthy congregation. He highlights the human face of God as seen in Christ, which is characterized by unconditional love and kindness. The preacher emphasizes the need for a personal relationship with God, where we are called to love Him above all else. He shares the testimony of Nikki Cruz, who attributes his long-lasting faith to his love for Jesus. The preacher also mentions that Jesus chose three special manifestations to reveal who God is to his disciples. Overall, the sermon encourages listeners to express their love for Jesus and acknowledge His faithfulness.
Beyond Messianic Judaism
By Art Katz4.1K57:29Messianic JudaismDEU 30:1MAT 6:33MRK 1:15LUK 24:47ACT 2:38ROM 2:4In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of preaching and proclaiming the word of God to bring about spiritual transformation in communities. He highlights the need for repentance toward God as a prerequisite for Jews to come to faith in Jesus Christ. The speaker also emphasizes the significance of the grace of God in salvation and the supernatural work of the Holy Spirit. He encourages believers to study the Scriptures, particularly Leviticus and Deuteronomy, to understand the condition of the Jewish people and the need for repentance.
Becoming a Solider God's Army Requires a Personal Calvary
By Keith Daniel3.3K44:21Dying To SelfISA 55:6EZK 33:11ROM 2:41TI 6:12HEB 3:15In this sermon, the preacher talks about the power of the word of God as a weapon. He shares the story of William Booth, the founder of the Salvation Army, who fearlessly marched his soldiers into crime-infested areas to bring the message of God's love. Despite facing violence and opposition, Booth's soldiers, including former prostitutes and criminals, were transformed by their encounter with God. The preacher emphasizes the importance of personal surrender to Jesus Christ and the willingness to deny oneself for the privilege of carrying the cross.
There Were Two Trees in the Garden - Part 2
By Art Katz3.2K34:52Garden Of EdenGEN 2:16EXO 19:6MAT 6:33ROM 2:4ROM 5:20ROM 11:33JAS 1:19In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the significance of examining the creation story in Genesis and how it reveals God's splendor, majesty, and wisdom. The speaker emphasizes the importance of exalting God and living in obedience to His word, as it is His provision that keeps us from sin and death. The sermon also explores the question of why God would plant two trees in the garden, including the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. The speaker suggests that God's purpose in allowing this temptation was to test Adam and Eve's obedience and to cultivate a deep intimacy with Him.
(Basics) 7. Repentance
By Zac Poonen3.1K12:51MAT 6:24MRK 8:34LUK 14:33ACT 3:19ROM 2:42CO 7:101TH 1:9In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the difficulty people have in asking for forgiveness due to their pride. He explains that in order to receive forgiveness from God, one must turn towards Him and away from their old way of life. Repentance is described as a simple act of turning around, just like in a military parade. The speaker also highlights the importance of genuine repentance, which is demonstrated through actions and a willingness to make amends with others. The sermon concludes by reminding listeners that forgiveness is not cheap, as it required the sacrifice of Jesus Christ.
Whatever Happened to Repentance
By David Wilkerson2.6K00:00RepentanceMAT 4:17MAT 23:37MRK 16:16LUK 5:32ACT 2:38ROM 2:4HEB 6:1In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of repentance and the forgiveness of sins through the blood of Jesus. He urges the congregation to come forward and confess their sins, both believers and non-believers alike. The preacher encourages everyone to be open and honest with God, confessing any hidden sins and seeking Godly sorrow in their hearts. He reminds the audience that all of heaven rejoices when even one sinner repents. The sermon concludes with a call to ask God to reveal where each individual stands in their relationship with Him.
Demon Faith
By Harold Vaughan2.6K39:06Demon FaithMAT 7:21ACT 17:30ROM 2:4JAS 2:14In this sermon, the preacher shares two stories to emphasize the importance of prioritizing our eternal relationship with God. The first story is about a man who desired to become a millionaire and followed the advice of Napoleon Hill's book. However, he realized that the least thing he wanted to do was to become a Christian, which ultimately led him to salvation. The preacher then emphasizes that no matter what worldly accomplishments we achieve, we will all eventually die and spend eternity somewhere. Therefore, he urges the audience to make their calling and election sure, seek the Lord while He may be found, and examine themselves to ensure they have genuine saving faith.
God Cannot Please Sinners
By Charles Finney2.4K27:18Audio BooksMAT 5:44LUK 13:3ACT 17:30ROM 2:4ROM 6:23ROM 8:72CO 6:14In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the long-suffering nature of God in sparing sinners despite their constant rebellion and fault-finding. The preacher emphasizes that nothing God does can please sinners because their hearts and consciences are opposed to Him. The sermon also highlights the torment that sinners will experience in hell, with their hearts unchanged and in enmity against God. The preacher calls for a change of heart, as it is evident that the consciences and hearts of sinners are in conflict with each other. The necessity of this change is universal, as every person has violated their conscience in following the inclinations of their hearts.
The Patience and Longsuffering of God
By John G. Reisinger1.9K47:46ROM 2:4ROM 9:18ROM 9:222PE 3:9In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the kindness and patience of God towards sinners. He uses the analogy of a person falling from a building, saying that sinners may think everything is fine, but it is only because of God's kindness. The preacher quotes Romans 2:4, highlighting that God's kindness leads to repentance. He warns against using God's kindness as an excuse for more sin and self-assurance, as it will lead to storing up wrath for the day of judgment. The preacher also emphasizes that God does not change and is slow to anger, contrasting with our own changing emotions. He concludes by praising God for His unchanging grace and urging listeners to preach and witness God as He truly is.
The Wicked Man's Life, Funeral & Epitaph
By C.H. Spurgeon1.8K47:08PSA 51:17PRO 14:12ISA 55:6MAT 7:21ROM 2:4HEB 4:12JAS 4:14In this sermon, the preacher reflects on the power of the word of God and the lack of response from some individuals. He describes witnessing people being moved by the sermon, shedding tears and showing emotion, but ultimately failing to be truly transformed. The preacher laments the hardness of heart and resistance to salvation, comparing it to a deaf adder that cannot be charmed. He concludes by emphasizing the futility of a wicked person's life and the hopelessness of their legacy, contrasting it with the promise of resurrection for the righteous.
Regeneration and God's Glory
By Leonard Ravenhill1.6K03:19EZK 36:26JOL 2:12MAT 3:8LUK 15:7JHN 3:3ROM 2:42CO 5:17JAS 4:8REV 3:19This sermon emphasizes the urgent need for repentance and a genuine transformation of heart through the power of the Holy Spirit. It challenges the complacency and lack of true spiritual rebirth in many professing Christians, highlighting the necessity of experiencing the glory of God and being truly born again.
Patience of God
By J. Glyn Owen1.6K47:32PatienceRepentanceGod's PatienceEXO 34:6PSA 86:15LAM 3:22EZK 18:32MAT 11:28ROM 2:42CO 5:201TI 1:16JAS 5:72PE 3:9J. Glyn Owen emphasizes the profound patience of God, illustrating how it is a reflection of His goodness and kindness towards humanity. He explains that God's patience serves as a temporary truce, allowing individuals the opportunity to repent rather than face immediate judgment. Owen highlights that this divine patience is often misunderstood, leading some to take it for granted, while others may see it as an invitation to continue in sin. Ultimately, he calls for a recognition of God's patience as a means to lead us toward repentance and a deeper relationship with Him. The sermon concludes with a plea for individuals to respond to God's kindness before the time of grace comes to an end.
Christ Overcame Evil With Good, Do the Same
By John Piper1.6K38:52ROM 2:4ROM 12:14ROM 12:17ROM 12:20In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of love and the need to overcome evil with good. He highlights the concept of giving water and food to one's enemies and wanting their salvation and good on earth. The speaker also discusses how Christ overcame sin and rebellion through the legal transaction of justification and the pouring out of the Holy Spirit. He contrasts Christianity with other religions, emphasizing that salvation is a transaction between God and His people, received by faith alone. The sermon concludes with a reflection on the sacrifice of missionaries who have given their lives for their enemies, and the question of whether love can truly overcome evil in such situations.
(Joel) the Day of the Lord Brings Judah Low
By David Guzik1.4K50:22JOL 1:1JOL 1:17JOL 2:13MAT 6:33ROM 2:4In this sermon, the preacher discusses the prophecy of Joel and the judgment that had come upon Judah in the form of a plague of locusts. He addresses the common question of why God allows calamities to happen and emphasizes the urgency of repentance. The preacher describes the people's reaction to the impending judgment, with faces drained of color and a sense of fear and urgency. He highlights the power and discipline of an army that is led by God, and warns that the day of the Lord is coming, a day of darkness and gloominess.
Be Patient, the Lord Is Coming - Part 2
By Alistair Begg1.3K41:14Lord's ComingACT 17:31ROM 2:4JAS 5:7JAS 5:91PE 1:3In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of not living separated from God in eternity. He highlights God's compassion and mercy towards humanity, urging believers to show the same kindness, tolerance, and patience towards others. The preacher also discusses the return of Jesus Christ, emphasizing the unpredictability of the day and the need to focus on its centrality and reality. He encourages teaching children songs that convey important lessons and provides examples from the Bible, such as the farmer, to illustrate the importance of patience and hard work.
Desperate for More of God - Our Heart
By Shane Idleman1.3K43:09Seeking GodPSA 25:9MAT 3:2MAT 6:33MAT 7:1MAT 7:7MAT 7:15ROM 2:4In this sermon, the speaker expresses his concern about the lack of readiness in the American church for judgment. He emphasizes the need for true change and transformation, rather than just attending conferences without any lasting impact. The speaker discusses the issue of pride and how it hinders obedience to God's word and a genuine relationship with Him. He also highlights the importance of waiting on God and seeking Him diligently, as well as the need to discern false prophets by their fruits. The speaker shares personal experiences and encourages a passionate and grateful worship of God.
Being Like Our Heavenly Father (Kannada)
By Zac Poonen1.1K57:20ISA 1:18MAT 5:44JHN 8:1JHN 17:3ROM 2:4ROM 15:51CO 3:1This sermon emphasizes the importance of knowing God as our Father and Jesus Christ, defining eternal life as a deep relationship with them. It highlights the need for believers to grow spiritually by living closely with God, just like a wife grows to know her husband over time. The message challenges believers to move from being spiritual babies to mature sons and daughters by encouraging and supporting one another in love, reflecting God's character of mercy, compassion, and encouragement.
012 John Knocks Peoples Props
By David Servant1.0K07:43MAT 3:7MAT 3:11MAT 7:6JHN 8:32ROM 2:4ROM 6:1GAL 6:72TI 4:2This sermon emphasizes the importance of preaching the true gospel message without compromise, focusing on repentance, bearing fruit in keeping with repentance, and not relying on false beliefs or lineage for salvation. John the Baptist fearlessly addressed the Pharisees and Sadducees, urging them to repent and warning them of the wrath to come, highlighting the need for genuine transformation and not just outward actions. The message challenges preachers to confront deceptive beliefs and guide their audience to a true understanding of salvation through Jesus Christ.
Our Father's Goodness Is the Root
By Zac Poonen1.0K57:50MAT 6:1LUK 6:36JHN 14:15ROM 2:4JAS 4:6This sermon emphasizes the importance of understanding God as a loving Father, highlighting the need for Christians to repent out of gratitude for God's kindness, tolerance, and patience rather than out of fear of punishment. It encourages believers to focus on doing everything for the glory of God, rooted in a deep relationship with God as a loving Father, and not to be manipulated by guilt trips or pressure from preachers. The message stresses the freedom found in surrendering to God, being filled with the Holy Spirit, and living a life motivated by love for God and others.
Servant #1 - Commencement
By Stephen Kaung9461:19:23EXO 9:1JOS 24:15ROM 1:16ROM 2:4ROM 5:8ROM 12:1In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of service and its connection to being a disciple of the Lord. The sermon begins by referencing scriptures that highlight the commandment to serve God. It then explores the concept of being careful in one's life and the need to present oneself as a living sacrifice to God. The speaker also discusses the unity of believers as one body in Christ and the different gifts and administrations given by the Holy Spirit. Overall, the sermon encourages believers to understand the purpose of service and to align their lives with God's will.
- Adam Clarke
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Or despisest thou the riches of his goodness - Wilt thou render of none effect that marked benevolence of God towards thee which has given so many superior advantages, and that forbearance which has tolerated thy many miscarriages, and that long-suffering which, after repeated provocations, still continues to bear with thee? Not knowing - Αγνοων, not acknowledging that this goodness of God, which has so long manifested itself in forbearance and long-suffering, leadeth thee to repentance - was designed to accomplish this blessed end; which thy want of consideration and acknowledgment has rendered, hitherto, ineffectual. This was a maxim among the Jews themselves; for, in Synopsis Sohar, it is said: - The holy blessed God delays his anger against the wicked, to the end that they may repent and be converted.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Or despisest thou the riches of his goodness,.... The apostle anticipates an objection against what he had said, taken from the prosperity of these persons; who might conclude from thence, that they were not so wicked as he had represented them; and that they should escape the judgment of God, otherwise they would have been punished by God in this life, and not have prospered as they did; which objection is removed by observing, that it was not their innocence, but "the riches of" divine "goodness, and longsuffering and forbearance", which were the causes of their prosperity: by "the riches of God's goodness", are not meant the riches of his special, spiritual, and eternal goodness, which his own people are only partakers of: but the general riches of his temporal and providential goodness, which the men of the world have commonly the greatest share of; they have it in great plenty, which is signified by "riches": and by his "longsuffering and forbearance" are designed, not his forbearance of his chosen ones and his longsuffering to them, which issue in their salvation; but his forbearance of sinners, and longsuffering towards them, in not as yet pouring down his wrath and displeasure on them; all which are "despised" by them; the riches of his goodness, when he is not glorified for his providential mercies, and in them, and when these are abused to the lusts of men. The forbearance of God is despised, when men on account of it harden themselves in sin; and his longsuffering, when they deny his concern in Providence, or a future judgment, and promise themselves impunity. Moreover, the apostle obviates the above objection by asserting that God's end in his goodness, forbearance, and longsuffering, was not to testify to their innocence, as they imagined, but to lead them to repentance, of which they were ignorant; not knowing that the goodness of God leadeth thee to repentance. This is to be understood not of a spiritual and evangelical repentance, which is a free grace gift, and which none but the Spirit of God can lead, or bring persons to; but of a natural and legal repentance, which lies in an external sorrow for sin, and in an outward cessation from it, and reformation of life and manners, which the goodness of God to the Jews should have led them to; who had a large share of the good things of life, a land flowing with milk and honey, and many outward privileges which other nations had not, as the giving of the law, the covenant and promises, the word and ordinances; and repentance here chiefly designs, as it may respect the Gentiles, a change of mind and practice in them relating to idolatry and superstition Now the providential goodness of God has a tendency to lead persons to repentance on this account; but of this end of divine goodness the Gentiles were ignorant; nor was this end answered thereby; which shows the wretched depravity of human nature; see Act 14:15.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
2:4 Can’t you see that his kindness is intended to turn you from your sin? Behind Paul’s question are Jewish passages (e.g., Wisdom of Solomon 12–15; cp. Jer 7:1-5; Amos 5:18-27) that portray a prevalent Jewish complacency toward judgment. Many Jews thought that because they were God’s people, they did not need to worry about judgment, for their sins would not be punished as the sins of Gentiles would be. Paul emphasizes that God’s grace was intended to turn the Jews from their sin, not to condone a sinful lifestyle.