Romans 8:19
Verse
Context
Future Glory
18I consider that our present sufferings are not comparable to the glory that will be revealed in us.19The creation waits in eager expectation for the revelation of the sons of God.20For the creation was subjected to futility, not by its own will, but because of the One who subjected it, in hope
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
For the earnest expectation of the creature - There is considerable difficulty in this and the four following verses: and the difficulty lies chiefly in the meaning of the word ἡ κτισις, which we translate the creature, and creation. Some think that by it the brute creation is meant; others apply it to the Jewish people; others to the godly; others to the Gentiles; others to the good angels; and others to the fallen spirits, both angelic and human. Dissertations without end have been written on it; and it does not appear that the Christian world are come to any general agreement on the subject. Dr. Lightfoot's mode of explanation appears to me to be the best, on the whole. "There is," says he, "a twofold key hanging at this place, which may unlock the whole, and make the sense plain and easy. 1. The first is the phrase, πασα ἡ κτισις, which we render the whole creation, Rom 8:22, and with which we meet twice elsewhere in the New Testament. Mar 16:15 : Preach the Gospel, πασῃ τῃ κτισει, to every creature; and Col 1:23 : The Gospel was preached, εν πασῃ τῃ κτισει, to every creature. Now it is sufficiently apparent what is meant by πασα κτισις in both these places, viz. all nations, or the heathen world. For that which in St. Mark is, preach the Gospel to every creature, is, in St. Matthew, go and teach, παντα τα εθνη, all nations. And this very phrase in this place lays claim to that very interpretation. And the Hebrew כל הבריות col habberioth, which answers to the Greek πασα ἡ κτισις, every creature, is applied by the Jews to the Gentiles, and that by way of opposition to Israel. 2. The second key is the word ματαιοτητι, Rom 8:20, which is not unfitly rendered vanity; but then this vanity is improperly applied to the vanishing, dying, changing state of the creation. For ματαιοτης, vanity, does not so much denote the vanishing condition of the outward state, as it does the inward vanity or emptiness of the mind. So the apostle, speaking of the Gentiles concerning whom he speaks here, tells us εματαιωθησαν, They became vain in their imaginations, Rom 1:21; and again, The Gentiles walk εν ματαιοτητι, in the vanity of their mind, Eph 4:17; so also, The Lord knoweth the thoughts of the wise, ὁτι εισι ματαιοι, that they are vain, Co1 3:20. To all which let me add this farther observation, that throughout this whole place the apostle seems to allude to the bondage of the Israelites in Egypt, and their deliverance from it; with a comparison made betwixt the Jewish and the Gentile Church. When God would deliver Israel from his bondage, he challenges him for his Son, and his first-born, Exo 4:22. And in like manner the Gentiles earnestly expect and wait for such a kind of manifestation of the sons of God, within and among themselves. The Romans, to whom the apostle writes, knew well how many predictions and promises it had pleased God to publish by his prophets, concerning gathering together and adopting sons to himself among the Gentiles; the manifestation of which sons the whole Gentile world with a neck as it were stretched out, as the word αποκαραδοκια implies, (απο, from, and καρα, the head, and δοκαω, to expect), doth now wait for." See the observations at the end of this chapter, (Rom 8:39 (note)).
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
For, &c.--"The apostle, fired with the thought of the future glory of the saints, pours forth this splendid passage, in which he represents the whole creation groaning under its present degradation, and looking and longing for the revelation of this glory as the end and consummation of its existence" [HODGE]. the earnest expectation--(compare Phi 1:20). of the creature--rather, "the creation." waiteth for the manifestation--"is waiting for the revelation" of the sons of God--that is, "for the redemption of their bodies" from the grave (Rom 8:23), which will reveal their sonship, now hidden (compare Luk 20:36; Rev 21:7).
John Gill Bible Commentary
For the earnest expectation of the creature,.... Some by the creature understand the universe, all created beings animate and inanimate, which having suffered much by the sin of man, are introduced by a rhetorical figure, as waiting for deliverance and a restoration to their paradisiacal estate; but some part of the world is manifestly distinguished from them, Rom 8:23, others think that angels are here meant, who being obliged to minister to sinful men, are represented as groaning and longing for the time when all the children of God shall be brought in, that they may be dismissed from their service; but what is said of subjection to vanity, of the bondage of corruption, and of their groaning and travailing in pain, can never agree with such happy spirits: others suppose that men in general are designed, being by sin brought into a state of bondage and corruption, subjected to vanity, attended with troubles, and liable to death, and so groan under their present miseries for deliverance; but to desire anything of a spiritual nature cannot be ascribed to men in general; and besides, as before observed, some persons are distinguished from them, Rom 8:23, others have been of opinion, that the new creature, or renewed persons, are here intended, who being burdened with indwelling sin, groan under it, long for deliverance from it, and are waiting for the heavenly glory; but these cannot be said to be in a state of bondage to corruption, for they are freed from the dominion of sin, and are become the servants of righteousness. It is best of all by "the creature" to understand the Gentile world. "The creature" here, and "the whole creation", Rom 8:22, must be the same; now the phrase , "the whole creation", or "every creature", as it may be rendered, signifies the nations of the world, in distinction to the Jews; see Mar 16:15; compared with Mat 28:19 and answers to "the creatures"; by which name the Jews often in their writings call the Gentiles, to distinguish them from the Israelites. Take two or three instances, as follow, "let your commerce (say they (g)), &c. be in a peaceable manner, , "with the creatures"; what do "the creatures" say concerning him? such an one, blessed be his father who taught him the law, blessed be his master who taught him the law; woe , "to the creatures", because they learn not the law; such an one who hath learned the law, they observe how beautiful are his ways, and how well ordered his works; of him it is written, saying, "and said unto me, thou art my servant, O Israel, in whom I will be glorified", Isa 49:3;'' where the creatures and the Israelites are evidently distinguished from one another: again (h), "woe , "to the creatures", who know not, nor have they any regard for the service of their Creator; for it is a tradition, (says R. Isaac,) that "Bath Kol", or a voice, goes out every day from Mount Horeb, and says, woe , "to the creatures", because of the service of their Creator.'' And a little after, "if "the creatures", knew the love with which the holy blessed God loves Israel, they would roar like young lions to follow after him.'' Once more (i), "all the prayer , "of the creatures", is only for the earth; Lord let the earth be fruitful, Lord let the earth prosper; all the prayer , "of the Israelites", is only for the house of the Lord, Lord let the house of the sanctuary be built.'' Now what "the creature", the Gentile world, is represented as earnestly waiting, and wistly looking out for, is the manifestation of the sons of God; which is made first at their conversion, and afterwards openly and more fully at the appearance of Christ in the resurrection morn. There is a manifestation of the sons of God, at conversion. They that are the sons of God, are his sons before by divine predestination, and through the covenant of grace; as such they were given to Christ; and under this character, and as standing in this relation, he assumed their nature, and died for them, in order to gather them together; and indeed, this previous relation is the ground and foundation of the Spirit of Christ being sent down into their hearts, to manifest their adoption to them; for before conversion, it is not manifested, neither to themselves nor others, but then it is in some measure made known. This may in a particular manner be applied to the Gentiles, and God's elect among them. They were the sons of God before they were manifested as such; they are spoken of in prophecy as in that relation; see Isa 45:11; and seemed to be designed chiefly, if not altogether, by "the children of God scattered abroad", in Joh 11:51. These were not known, nor looked upon by the Jews, to be the children of God; but when the Gospel came in among them, as the power of God, it manifested them to be such: so that where it was formerly said, "ye are not my people", there it is said, "ye are the sons of the living God", Hos 1:10. But the full manifestation of the sons of God will be in their glorification at Christ's second coming; when they shall be openly taken into God's family, and shall be owned by Christ in this relation, before angels and men; they will appear in themselves otherwise than now they do; they will be put into the possession of the inheritance they are adopted to, and will have that honour and dignity which belong to their character actually conferred on them; so that they shall appear, not only to themselves, but to all the world, to be what they are: now this, in the whole compass of it, the Gentiles might be said to be in earnest expectation of, and waiting for. They may be said, in some sense, to expect and wait for the manifestation of the Son of God himself, the Messiah, who is called "the desire of all nations", Hag 2:7, for it was promised, that "to him should the gathering", Gen 49:10, or, as some read it, "the expectation of the people", or "nations be": they also waited for his law, his doctrine, the everlasting Gospel, Isa 42:4, and when that was come among them, and became the power of God to the salvation of many of them, this raised in them an earnest expectation of many, of multitudes of the sons of God being manifested among them, according to several prophecies of the Old Testament, which largely speak of this matter; and they continue to wait for the bringing in of the fulness of them in the latter day, and for the ultimate glory, which all the sons of God, whether Jews or Gentiles, shall enjoy together. (g) F. Bab. Yoma, fol. 86. 1. (h) Zohar in Exod. fol. 2. 3. (i) Bareshit Rabba Parash. 13. fol. 11. 3.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
8:19-21 All creation includes animals, plants, and the earth itself. Paul follows Old Testament precedent (see especially Ps 65:12-13; Isa 24:4; Jer 4:28; 12:4) by personifying the created world. • waiting eagerly . . . looks forward: Just as the entire world was harmed by Adam’s fall into sin, it will share in the blessings that God has promised his people (e.g., Isa 4:2, Rev 21:1-2).
Romans 8:19
Future Glory
18I consider that our present sufferings are not comparable to the glory that will be revealed in us.19The creation waits in eager expectation for the revelation of the sons of God.20For the creation was subjected to futility, not by its own will, but because of the One who subjected it, in hope
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Youth for Christ Ladies
By Corrie Ten Boom6.6K38:08Women's MeetingGEN 18:32ISA 11:9ZEP 3:17ROM 8:19COL 4:21JN 5:5REV 22:21In this sermon, the speaker describes a situation where 700 prisoners were in great danger and facing punishment due to their fighting. Amidst this chaos, there was a weak and starving old woman named Betsy who prayed for peace. The speaker emphasizes that God used Betsy as a representative of heaven to bring peace to the room. The sermon also highlights the importance of understanding how God sees us and what He expects from us. The speaker encourages belief in Jesus as the Son of God and emphasizes that our world is in need of overcoming through God's plans. The sermon concludes by mentioning a poem about life being like a weaving between God and ourselves, and the speaker shares personal experiences of finding joy and light in the midst of darkness through Jesus Christ. The sermon references the book of Ivan Pleger and mentions the ultimate goal of the knowledge of God covering the earth. The speaker also mentions a story about reading the last chapter of a book to find a happy ending, relating it to the sad events happening in the world before Jesus comes. The sermon encourages faith and action in fulfilling what we are supposed to do.
Real Revival
By Denny Kenaston4.1K53:19Biblical RevivalISA 64:4MAT 6:33ACT 2:17ROM 8:191CO 2:9EPH 3:19COL 1:27In this sermon, the speaker shares a series of events that occurred during a prayer meeting at their church. They initially planned to listen to a tape, but rocks started coming through the windows, thrown by someone hiding in a cornfield. The speaker and the congregation called out to the person in the name of Jesus, and they eventually ran away. Despite the disturbance, the speaker emphasizes the importance of being obedient to God's will and allowing Him to rule over their services. They stress the need for believers to be filled with the fullness of Christ, as this is what will truly transform their hearts and lives. The speaker references the prayer of Paul for the church at Ephesus and encourages the congregation to seek this fullness of Christ.
The Scandal of Specificity
By Art Katz2.6K1:27:55SpecificityMAT 6:33ROM 8:191PE 2:9REV 5:10In this sermon, the speaker discusses the state of the world and the predicament faced by Jews and Israel. He emphasizes the need to rely on God's wisdom rather than human intelligence. The speaker shares a personal experience of being confronted with the story of the woman taken in adultery from the New Testament, which challenged his previous beliefs. He then references the Song of Moses in Deuteronomy and reflects on the urgency of the times and his own journey of surrendering worldly possessions for a life dedicated to God's calling.
Men Whose Eyes Have Seen the King - Part 8
By T. Austin-Sparks1.9K43:16Seeing JesusGEN 1:26EZK 1:26MAT 6:33ACT 26:16ROM 8:191CO 15:252CO 4:4In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of Jesus reigning until all His enemies are under His feet, as mentioned in 1 Corinthians 15:25. The speaker highlights the vision of Ezekiel, who saw a throne in heaven with a man on it, representing Jesus. The speaker also references the apostle Paul's experience in Damascus and Arabia, where he gained a deeper understanding of the Bible and saw God's intention for mankind to have dominion and reign in glory. The speaker emphasizes that the current state of suffering, evil, and misery in the world is contrary to God's intention and should motivate the church to seek the realization of God's glory in their lives.
The Controversy of Zion
By T. Austin-Sparks1.8K1:19:06ZionPSA 2:6ISA 30:8ISA 32:10ACT 4:25ROM 8:19ROM 8:29HEB 12:22In this sermon, the speaker discusses the battle between the forces of evil and the church, represented by Zion. The church is called and chosen by God for a specific vocation and testimony in the world. The speaker emphasizes the importance of unity within the church, as the spirits of division are at work. The sermon references the second Psalm, highlighting the opposition faced by the church and the intervention of God in their battles.
Npg Radio 1980 #1 - Radio Interview
By Norman Grubb1.1K1:07:09Radio InterviewGEN 1:3GEN 1:26MAT 6:33JHN 1:1JHN 14:9ROM 8:19COL 1:27In this sermon, David Ord addresses the common question of who we are and the purpose of life. He introduces the concept that human nature is actually the expression of Satan's nature through man, and that it must be replaced by the nature of Jesus Christ. Ord invites listeners to request a free booklet called "What is the Mystery of the Gospel?" which delves deeper into this topic. He also mentions the significance of Jesus' death on the cross, emphasizing that his shedding of blood is evidence of his sacrifice for our sins.
Falling Stars - a Message for Preachers
By Erlo Stegen1.1K57:42EXO 33:15MAT 5:14JHN 8:12ROM 8:191CO 9:24PHP 2:151TH 5:52TI 3:11PE 2:9REV 12:4This sermon reflects on the encounter of the two disciples with the Lord Jesus on the road to Emmaus, drawing parallels between the approaching darkness in the world and the need for Jesus to abide with us. It emphasizes the importance of not being sidetracked by worldly distractions and the necessity of seeking God's presence amidst the increasing darkness in the world. The message underscores the significance of repentance, removing sin, and striving for unity among believers to invite God's presence and revival.
The Call of the Shipmaster
By Carter Conlon93649:01NEH 4:14PSA 18:1PSA 20:6PSA 34:17JER 20:9MAL 3:16ROM 8:19HEB 4:16JAS 5:161PE 1:7This sermon is a powerful call to prayer and revival, emphasizing the need for believers to awaken to the urgency of the times and seek God's presence. Drawing from the story of Jonah, the message highlights the importance of responding to God's call, even in weakness, and the impact of prayer in bringing about spiritual awakening and transformation. The speaker urges for a return to fervent prayer, intercession for the nation, and a bold proclamation of the Gospel, emphasizing the need for a revival in churches and a deepening of personal devotion to God.
Reclaiming Authentic Christianity
By Brian Guerin329:34The Power of the Holy SpiritAuthentic ChristianityPSA 16:11JOL 2:28MAT 11:28JHN 14:12ACT 10:38ROM 8:191CO 12:42CO 3:6EPH 5:18HEB 1:14Brian Guerin emphasizes the need for authentic Christianity, urging believers to embrace the fullness of Jesus and the power of the Holy Spirit. He shares personal experiences of divine encounters and miracles, encouraging the congregation to seek intimacy with God and to be open to the Holy Spirit's movement. Guerin highlights the importance of character in the manifestation of spiritual gifts and the necessity of being a light in a world filled with fear. He calls for a fresh outpouring of the Holy Spirit, believing that God desires to heal and liberate His people from oppression and despair.
The School of Sonship Unto Adoption
By T. Austin-Sparks1SonshipSpiritual GrowthJHN 7:17ROM 8:14ROM 8:19ROM 8:21ROM 8:23GAL 4:5EPH 1:5HEB 3:15HEB 5:8HEB 12:5T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the profound nature of sonship and adoption in God's family, explaining that adoption is not merely about being brought into the family but about the development and maturity of believers as they grow in their relationship with God. He highlights that true sonship involves a process of spiritual growth, where believers must actively engage with God and exercise their faith, moving beyond spiritual infancy to maturity. Sparks warns against the dangers of stagnation and the need for purposefulness in pursuing a deeper relationship with God, as the enemy seeks to hinder this progress. Ultimately, he encourages believers to embrace the challenges of spiritual training, recognizing that it is through these experiences that they will come to fully realize their identity as sons of God.
The Dawn of a Golden Age
By G. Campbell Morgan0Prophecy and FulfillmentThe Return of ChristDEU 6:4ISA 43:12ISA 49:18ZEC 8:7ZEC 14:1ROM 8:192TH 2:7REV 1:7REV 19:11G. Campbell Morgan discusses the dire conditions on earth at the return of Christ, emphasizing the oppressive rule of the antichrist and the suffering of the Jewish people during this time. He highlights the fulfillment of biblical prophecies regarding Israel's restoration and the ultimate victory of Christ over evil. Morgan reassures believers that despite current doubts and challenges, Christ's return will bring justice and establish His reign on earth. He encourages faith in God's promises, asserting that the prophecies concerning Israel and the coming of the Messiah will be realized. The sermon concludes with a call to hope and worship in anticipation of Christ's glorious return.
From Genesis to Revelation
By George Warnock0Divine RestorationTransformationGEN 1:1ISA 43:19JHN 15:5ACT 9:2ROM 8:192CO 5:17EPH 2:10PHP 1:61JN 4:17REV 22:13George Warnock emphasizes the journey from Genesis to Revelation, illustrating God's unchanging nature as Alpha and Omega, and His desire to transform His people from their beginnings to their destined fulfillment. He highlights the importance of being responsive to God's leading, as we are often slow to adjust and may stray from the path. Warnock uses metaphors like the seed and the fruit, and the egg and the bird, to convey that while we may not yet reflect Christ fully, the potential for transformation is within us. He urges believers to embrace the changes God brings, understanding that they are part of His divine restoration plan. Ultimately, he calls for a deeper understanding of scripture to avoid remaining stagnant and to fully realize God's intentions for His people.
All Creation Subject to the Yoke of Bondage
By G.W. North0Creation's GroaningRedemption and RestorationROM 8:19G.W. North emphasizes the profound suffering of creation, which has been subjected to bondage since Adam's fall, and the universal groaning for deliverance. He explains that while the sons of God, who possess the firstfruits of the Spirit, await their redemption, all of creation longs for liberation from corruption and death. The sermon highlights God's original intention for creation and the hope that lies in the manifestation of the sons of God, who will ultimately bring restoration. North underscores that true freedom from sin and corruption is the evidence of being a son of God, which the entire creation yearns to witness. The message calls for believers to recognize their role in this divine plan and the glorious liberty that awaits them.
Glory - the Result of Intercession
By G.W. North0IntercessionGlory Of GodROM 8:192CO 4:17G.W. North emphasizes the profound glory that awaits Christ as a result of His intercession, highlighting that while He is already glorified, there are greater glories to come when He is revealed in the saints. He draws parallels between the past and present manifestations of God's glory, urging believers to identify with the suffering of creation and intercede for others. North stresses that true intercession requires a secure identity in Christ, allowing the intercessor to focus on the needs of others rather than their own comfort. He reminds us that God's power is made known through our empathy and willingness to share in the struggles of the world. Ultimately, the joy of seeing the saints glorified will be a testament to the fruit of Christ's intercession.
The Foundation That Is Laid
By T. Austin-Sparks0Foundation in ChristSpiritual GrowthROM 8:19ROM 8:291CO 3:1T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes that the primary objective of God for His people is to achieve full growth in Christ, as evidenced by the apostolic letters which focus on spiritual maturity. He highlights that believers must recognize their calling to pursue this goal, understanding that their faith in Christ's resurrection lays a firm foundation for their spiritual journey. Sparks argues that the church's effectiveness in evangelism is contingent upon its own spiritual growth, and that believers must remain steadfast in their faith to overcome life's challenges. He reassures that God's love and justification through Christ are unshakeable, providing the necessary security for believers to grow. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a commitment to spiritual maturity as the foundation for fulfilling God's purpose.
The Incentive to Maturity
By T. Austin-Sparks0Divine PurposeSpiritual MaturityROM 8:19ROM 8:291CO 3:12CO 3:18GAL 3:26GAL 4:6GAL 4:19EPH 1:5EPH 4:13HEB 2:10T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the urgency of spiritual maturity in his sermon 'The Incentive to Maturity', highlighting that the New Testament is primarily focused on urging believers towards full growth in Christ. He explains that maturity is essential not just for personal development but for fulfilling God's divine purpose, which includes governance over the world to come. Sparks points out that the letters of Paul address various aspects of spiritual growth, stressing that immaturity hinders believers from realizing their calling and inheritance as children of God. He underscores the importance of understanding our identity in Christ and the necessity of pressing on towards maturity to fulfill God's eternal purpose. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a deep commitment to spiritual growth as a response to God's grace and purpose.
2 Peter 3:12
By John Gill0EschatologyReadiness for Christ's ReturnMAT 24:42LUK 12:35ROM 8:191CO 4:31TH 5:2HEB 10:25JAS 5:72PE 3:10REV 20:11REV 22:12John Gill emphasizes the significance of eagerly anticipating the day of God, which refers to Christ's second coming and final judgment. He explains that this day will reveal God's true nature and fulfill His promises, distinguishing it from human judgment. Believers are encouraged to look forward to this day with faith and love, actively praying for its hastening while remaining prepared and vigilant in their spiritual lives. Gill highlights the dual nature of this day, bringing both grace to the faithful and judgment to the wicked, ultimately culminating in God's eternal reign. The sermon calls for a readiness and eagerness among the saints as they await this glorious event.
Whose Is This Image?
By Andrew Murray0Power Of PrayerDivine ImageGEN 1:26MAT 6:10MAT 21:20JHN 15:7ROM 8:192CO 5:17EPH 2:10HEB 4:16JAS 5:161PE 2:9Andrew Murray explores the profound question posed by Jesus, 'Whose is this image?' to illustrate humanity's divine origin and purpose. He emphasizes that man, created in God's image, is meant to represent God on earth, exercising dominion and maintaining a relationship through prayer. Despite the degradation caused by sin, redemption through Christ restores this original calling, allowing believers to reclaim their role as God's representatives. Murray urges the Church to recognize its high calling and the power of prayer in shaping the destinies of the world. He concludes with a plea for believers to embrace their royal priesthood and actively engage in prayer to fulfill God's purposes.
Christ and His Church Incognito
By T. Austin-Sparks0Spiritual RecognitionIdentity in ChristMAT 5:14ACT 4:13ROM 8:191JN 3:1T. Austin-Sparks explores the profound truth that the world does not recognize Christ or His Church, as stated in 1 John 3:1. He emphasizes that this lack of recognition is not a loss but a significant gain, as it highlights the divine mystery and power inherent in their presence. The sermon critiques the modern church's tendency to seek worldly approval and status, which often leads to a dilution of its spiritual essence. Sparks challenges believers to embrace their identity as unacknowledged and misunderstood, living for eternal values rather than human accolades. Ultimately, he calls for a return to the original, inscrutable nature of Christianity that reflects the true power of God.
The Coming Again of the Lord Jesus
By T. Austin-Sparks0Hope in RedemptionSecond Coming Of ChristMAT 28:20ROM 8:19T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the significance of the second coming of the Lord Jesus, explaining that it is not merely an event but the consummation of redemption. He highlights that Christ's return is essential for completing the work of redemption, revealing the sons of God, and delivering creation from corruption. The sermon underscores that the coming of the Son of Man is a fulfillment of God's plan for humanity, showcasing the relationship between Christ's incarnation and His return. Sparks encourages believers to anticipate this event as the ultimate hope for both the Church and the world, affirming that Christ's coming will finalize the triumph over sin and death. He calls for a renewed joy and expectation in the hearts of believers regarding the imminent return of Jesus.
The Triumphant Christ and His People
By T. Austin-Sparks0Cosmic Significance of ChristSpiritual TransformationGEN 3:15PSA 19:13MAT 4:9LUK 1:38JHN 10:10JHN 10:28ROM 8:19EPH 1:20EPH 2:5COL 2:15T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the cosmic significance of Christ's life and the believer's relationship with Him, arguing that the true essence of Christ's story transcends earthly events and is rooted in a super-earthly realm. He explains that Christ's incarnation, temptation, crucifixion, resurrection, and exaltation are all part of a divine plan to defeat the kingdom of Satan and establish God's kingdom. Sparks highlights the transformative power of Christ's life within believers, urging them to recognize their role in this cosmic battle and the importance of spiritual growth through trials and tribulations. Ultimately, he calls for believers to manifest the life of Christ, which will culminate in glorification and the final victory over evil.
The Transcendent Thought of Sonship
By T. Austin-Sparks0SonshipSpiritual GrowthJHN 4:21ACT 13:33ROM 8:19EPH 1:23HEB 1:2HEB 2:5HEB 2:10HEB 3:6HEB 6:1HEB 12:5T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the profound significance of sonship as presented in the Letter to the Hebrews, illustrating that true sonship is not merely an initial relationship with God but a mature and responsible state of being that reflects spiritual growth. He highlights the importance of moving beyond spiritual infancy to embrace the fullness of life in Christ, warning against the dangers of stagnation and the temptation to revert to earthly traditions. The sermon connects the concept of sonship with the divine purpose of bringing many sons to glory, underscoring the spiritual nature of this relationship and its implications for believers. Sparks also draws parallels between the teachings in Hebrews and the Gospel of John, emphasizing the inner, spiritual relationship between the Father and the Son. Ultimately, he calls for a recovery of life and fullness in Christ, urging believers to transcend mere tradition and embrace the living reality of their faith.
'A Man in Christ'
By Samuel Logan Brengle0Transformation through ChristBeing in ChristISA 53:11ZEP 3:17JHN 15:5ROM 8:192CO 5:17GAL 2:20EPH 1:1PHP 1:1COL 1:271JN 4:13Samuel Logan Brengle emphasizes the profound significance of being 'in Christ,' illustrating how this relationship serves as a refuge, source of strength, and transformative experience for believers. He reflects on Paul's assurance of being in Christ and encourages listeners to examine their own lives and relationships with Christ, highlighting the importance of both abiding and transitory experiences of divine fellowship. Brengle urges Christians to live in constant communion with Christ, which not only enriches their spiritual lives but also impacts those around them positively. He concludes by affirming that true transformation occurs when individuals embody the essence of Christ, becoming vessels of His love and peace in a troubled world.
Man Now Another Species Than God Created
By T. Austin-Sparks0Human NatureSpiritual TransformationGEN 2:7JHN 4:24ROM 8:19T. Austin-Sparks addresses the profound transformation of humanity from God's original creation to a state of spiritual disarray, emphasizing that man is not merely a sinner needing redirection but has fundamentally become a different species than intended by God. He critiques the evangelical approach that focuses on consecration of the 'old man' rather than the necessary crucifixion of the old nature, highlighting the inadequacies of relying on human abilities in spiritual matters. Sparks asserts that true salvation involves a radical change in man's constitution, requiring a union of the spirit with God, which was lost in the Fall. He explains that the essence of man as spirit, soul, and body has been disrupted, leading to a life dominated by the soul rather than the spirit. Ultimately, he calls for a return to the original divine purpose through the transformative power of Christ's death and resurrection.
The General Deliverence
By John Wesley0Hope and RestorationCreationROM 8:19John Wesley preaches on 'The General Deliverance,' emphasizing that all of creation eagerly awaits the revelation of God's children and the restoration of the world from its current state of suffering and corruption. He explains that while God cares for all creatures, the fall of man has led to a state of pain and bondage for both humanity and the animal kingdom. Wesley assures that there is hope for creation, as it will one day be liberated and restored to its original glory, reflecting God's mercy and love. He encourages believers to recognize their unique capacity to know and love God, which distinguishes them from animals, and to live in a way that honors this divine relationship.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
For the earnest expectation of the creature - There is considerable difficulty in this and the four following verses: and the difficulty lies chiefly in the meaning of the word ἡ κτισις, which we translate the creature, and creation. Some think that by it the brute creation is meant; others apply it to the Jewish people; others to the godly; others to the Gentiles; others to the good angels; and others to the fallen spirits, both angelic and human. Dissertations without end have been written on it; and it does not appear that the Christian world are come to any general agreement on the subject. Dr. Lightfoot's mode of explanation appears to me to be the best, on the whole. "There is," says he, "a twofold key hanging at this place, which may unlock the whole, and make the sense plain and easy. 1. The first is the phrase, πασα ἡ κτισις, which we render the whole creation, Rom 8:22, and with which we meet twice elsewhere in the New Testament. Mar 16:15 : Preach the Gospel, πασῃ τῃ κτισει, to every creature; and Col 1:23 : The Gospel was preached, εν πασῃ τῃ κτισει, to every creature. Now it is sufficiently apparent what is meant by πασα κτισις in both these places, viz. all nations, or the heathen world. For that which in St. Mark is, preach the Gospel to every creature, is, in St. Matthew, go and teach, παντα τα εθνη, all nations. And this very phrase in this place lays claim to that very interpretation. And the Hebrew כל הבריות col habberioth, which answers to the Greek πασα ἡ κτισις, every creature, is applied by the Jews to the Gentiles, and that by way of opposition to Israel. 2. The second key is the word ματαιοτητι, Rom 8:20, which is not unfitly rendered vanity; but then this vanity is improperly applied to the vanishing, dying, changing state of the creation. For ματαιοτης, vanity, does not so much denote the vanishing condition of the outward state, as it does the inward vanity or emptiness of the mind. So the apostle, speaking of the Gentiles concerning whom he speaks here, tells us εματαιωθησαν, They became vain in their imaginations, Rom 1:21; and again, The Gentiles walk εν ματαιοτητι, in the vanity of their mind, Eph 4:17; so also, The Lord knoweth the thoughts of the wise, ὁτι εισι ματαιοι, that they are vain, Co1 3:20. To all which let me add this farther observation, that throughout this whole place the apostle seems to allude to the bondage of the Israelites in Egypt, and their deliverance from it; with a comparison made betwixt the Jewish and the Gentile Church. When God would deliver Israel from his bondage, he challenges him for his Son, and his first-born, Exo 4:22. And in like manner the Gentiles earnestly expect and wait for such a kind of manifestation of the sons of God, within and among themselves. The Romans, to whom the apostle writes, knew well how many predictions and promises it had pleased God to publish by his prophets, concerning gathering together and adopting sons to himself among the Gentiles; the manifestation of which sons the whole Gentile world with a neck as it were stretched out, as the word αποκαραδοκια implies, (απο, from, and καρα, the head, and δοκαω, to expect), doth now wait for." See the observations at the end of this chapter, (Rom 8:39 (note)).
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
For, &c.--"The apostle, fired with the thought of the future glory of the saints, pours forth this splendid passage, in which he represents the whole creation groaning under its present degradation, and looking and longing for the revelation of this glory as the end and consummation of its existence" [HODGE]. the earnest expectation--(compare Phi 1:20). of the creature--rather, "the creation." waiteth for the manifestation--"is waiting for the revelation" of the sons of God--that is, "for the redemption of their bodies" from the grave (Rom 8:23), which will reveal their sonship, now hidden (compare Luk 20:36; Rev 21:7).
John Gill Bible Commentary
For the earnest expectation of the creature,.... Some by the creature understand the universe, all created beings animate and inanimate, which having suffered much by the sin of man, are introduced by a rhetorical figure, as waiting for deliverance and a restoration to their paradisiacal estate; but some part of the world is manifestly distinguished from them, Rom 8:23, others think that angels are here meant, who being obliged to minister to sinful men, are represented as groaning and longing for the time when all the children of God shall be brought in, that they may be dismissed from their service; but what is said of subjection to vanity, of the bondage of corruption, and of their groaning and travailing in pain, can never agree with such happy spirits: others suppose that men in general are designed, being by sin brought into a state of bondage and corruption, subjected to vanity, attended with troubles, and liable to death, and so groan under their present miseries for deliverance; but to desire anything of a spiritual nature cannot be ascribed to men in general; and besides, as before observed, some persons are distinguished from them, Rom 8:23, others have been of opinion, that the new creature, or renewed persons, are here intended, who being burdened with indwelling sin, groan under it, long for deliverance from it, and are waiting for the heavenly glory; but these cannot be said to be in a state of bondage to corruption, for they are freed from the dominion of sin, and are become the servants of righteousness. It is best of all by "the creature" to understand the Gentile world. "The creature" here, and "the whole creation", Rom 8:22, must be the same; now the phrase , "the whole creation", or "every creature", as it may be rendered, signifies the nations of the world, in distinction to the Jews; see Mar 16:15; compared with Mat 28:19 and answers to "the creatures"; by which name the Jews often in their writings call the Gentiles, to distinguish them from the Israelites. Take two or three instances, as follow, "let your commerce (say they (g)), &c. be in a peaceable manner, , "with the creatures"; what do "the creatures" say concerning him? such an one, blessed be his father who taught him the law, blessed be his master who taught him the law; woe , "to the creatures", because they learn not the law; such an one who hath learned the law, they observe how beautiful are his ways, and how well ordered his works; of him it is written, saying, "and said unto me, thou art my servant, O Israel, in whom I will be glorified", Isa 49:3;'' where the creatures and the Israelites are evidently distinguished from one another: again (h), "woe , "to the creatures", who know not, nor have they any regard for the service of their Creator; for it is a tradition, (says R. Isaac,) that "Bath Kol", or a voice, goes out every day from Mount Horeb, and says, woe , "to the creatures", because of the service of their Creator.'' And a little after, "if "the creatures", knew the love with which the holy blessed God loves Israel, they would roar like young lions to follow after him.'' Once more (i), "all the prayer , "of the creatures", is only for the earth; Lord let the earth be fruitful, Lord let the earth prosper; all the prayer , "of the Israelites", is only for the house of the Lord, Lord let the house of the sanctuary be built.'' Now what "the creature", the Gentile world, is represented as earnestly waiting, and wistly looking out for, is the manifestation of the sons of God; which is made first at their conversion, and afterwards openly and more fully at the appearance of Christ in the resurrection morn. There is a manifestation of the sons of God, at conversion. They that are the sons of God, are his sons before by divine predestination, and through the covenant of grace; as such they were given to Christ; and under this character, and as standing in this relation, he assumed their nature, and died for them, in order to gather them together; and indeed, this previous relation is the ground and foundation of the Spirit of Christ being sent down into their hearts, to manifest their adoption to them; for before conversion, it is not manifested, neither to themselves nor others, but then it is in some measure made known. This may in a particular manner be applied to the Gentiles, and God's elect among them. They were the sons of God before they were manifested as such; they are spoken of in prophecy as in that relation; see Isa 45:11; and seemed to be designed chiefly, if not altogether, by "the children of God scattered abroad", in Joh 11:51. These were not known, nor looked upon by the Jews, to be the children of God; but when the Gospel came in among them, as the power of God, it manifested them to be such: so that where it was formerly said, "ye are not my people", there it is said, "ye are the sons of the living God", Hos 1:10. But the full manifestation of the sons of God will be in their glorification at Christ's second coming; when they shall be openly taken into God's family, and shall be owned by Christ in this relation, before angels and men; they will appear in themselves otherwise than now they do; they will be put into the possession of the inheritance they are adopted to, and will have that honour and dignity which belong to their character actually conferred on them; so that they shall appear, not only to themselves, but to all the world, to be what they are: now this, in the whole compass of it, the Gentiles might be said to be in earnest expectation of, and waiting for. They may be said, in some sense, to expect and wait for the manifestation of the Son of God himself, the Messiah, who is called "the desire of all nations", Hag 2:7, for it was promised, that "to him should the gathering", Gen 49:10, or, as some read it, "the expectation of the people", or "nations be": they also waited for his law, his doctrine, the everlasting Gospel, Isa 42:4, and when that was come among them, and became the power of God to the salvation of many of them, this raised in them an earnest expectation of many, of multitudes of the sons of God being manifested among them, according to several prophecies of the Old Testament, which largely speak of this matter; and they continue to wait for the bringing in of the fulness of them in the latter day, and for the ultimate glory, which all the sons of God, whether Jews or Gentiles, shall enjoy together. (g) F. Bab. Yoma, fol. 86. 1. (h) Zohar in Exod. fol. 2. 3. (i) Bareshit Rabba Parash. 13. fol. 11. 3.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
8:19-21 All creation includes animals, plants, and the earth itself. Paul follows Old Testament precedent (see especially Ps 65:12-13; Isa 24:4; Jer 4:28; 12:4) by personifying the created world. • waiting eagerly . . . looks forward: Just as the entire world was harmed by Adam’s fall into sin, it will share in the blessings that God has promised his people (e.g., Isa 4:2, Rev 21:1-2).