Romans 8:22
Verse
Context
Future Glory
21that the creation itself will be set free from its bondage to decay and brought into the glorious freedom of the children of God.22We know that the whole creation has been groaning together in the pains of childbirth until the present time.23Not only that, but we ourselves, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for our adoption as sons, the redemption of our bodies.
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
The whole creation groaneth and travaileth - If it be inquired how the Gentile world groaned and travailed in pain; let them who explain this of the fabric of the material world, tell us how that groans and travails? They must needs own it to be a borrowed and allusive phrase: but in the sense above given, the very literal construction may be admitted.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
For we know that the whole creation groaneth and travaileth in pain together until now--If for man's sake alone the earth was cursed, it cannot surprise us that it should share in his recovery. And if so, to represent it as sympathizing with man's miseries, and as looking forward to his complete redemption as the period of its own emancipation from its present sin-blighted condition, is a beautiful thought, and in harmony with the general teaching of Scripture on the subject. (See on Pe2 3:13).
John Gill Bible Commentary
For we know that the whole creation groaneth,.... As a woman with child, ready to bring forth: for it is added, and travaileth in pain together until now; regeneration is owing to the grace of God, which is compared to "seed", of which men are born again; the means of conveying it is the Gospel, and ministers are the instruments of begetting souls to Christ, and who travail in birth till Christ be formed in them: now the Gospel being carried by the apostles into the Gentile world, and being succeeded there, it was like a woman big with child, ready to bring forth many sons to God; for as it was prophesied, so it came to pass, that "more are the children of the desolate, than the children of the married wife", Isa 54:1; and these births were attended with pain. The apostles preached the word with much contention, and the Gentiles received it in much affliction, though with the joy of the Holy Ghost; as a woman rejoices when a man child is brought forth, though the birth has been attended with pain and labour. This was an united groan, and travail of all the converted Gentiles in the several parts of the world, together with the ministers of the Gospel, earnestly desiring more instances of conversion among them; and this vehement desire had appeared "until now", from the first time of the preaching of the Gospel among the Gentiles, to the writing of this epistle; and supposes, that though there were many spiritual births, there were more to come; as there has been, and will be more abundantly, in the latter day: and moreover, this painful labour, and these united groans for spiritual births, the apostles were well acquainted with, and therefore could say, "we know", &c. by their preaching among them, in whom they could easily observe, and do in their writings take notice, how eagerly desirous they were of having the Gospel preached unto them. (The whole creation was brought under a curse because of Adam's sin. This curse will be removed in the eternal state when Christ will restore the creation to the way it was in the beginning. Editor.)
Tyndale Open Study Notes
8:22 The pains of childbirth is a metaphor for the longing of creation (see also Matt 24:8; Mark 13:8; John 16:20-22).
Romans 8:22
Future Glory
21that the creation itself will be set free from its bondage to decay and brought into the glorious freedom of the children of God.22We know that the whole creation has been groaning together in the pains of childbirth until the present time.23Not only that, but we ourselves, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for our adoption as sons, the redemption of our bodies.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
When Defeat Becomes Doctrine
By Carter Conlon3.6K49:58DefeatJDG 6:1ISA 1:18MAT 16:24MAT 26:39ROM 8:222TI 2:15REV 3:17In this sermon, the speaker passionately addresses the pursuit of self and how it aligns with the heart of Christ. He questions whether the pursuit of self can truly be considered the gospel of Jesus Christ. The speaker refers to Judges 6:1, where the children of Israel did evil in the sight of the Lord, as an indictment on any church or church age that claims to be rich and in need of nothing. He emphasizes the importance of understanding God's kingdom and responding to His word.
Joy Out of Travail
By T. Austin-Sparks2.9K37:53TravailGEN 3:16MAT 6:33JHN 16:21ROM 8:22GAL 4:19In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of having a deep appreciation for the things of God. He highlights how easily humans can take God's blessings for granted and become complacent in their faith. The speaker also emphasizes the value of fellowship and community within the church, stating that believers should cherish the opportunity to gather with other believers and experience the richness of the body of Christ. The sermon concludes with a call to have a genuine love and appreciation for God and all that He has given, recognizing that unbelief and cheapness in relation to spiritual values will lead to despair, while faith in God will bring about something new and better.
Intellectual Climate and New Theology
By Francis Schaeffer2.6K1:30:56TheologyGEN 1:2MAT 6:33JHN 1:1JHN 11:35ROM 8:221JN 1:1REV 21:5In this sermon, the preacher discusses the concept of an impenetrable mystery that lies behind all creation, both human and divine. He emphasizes the inexhaustible energy that exists in even the smallest particles of matter, demonstrating that matter is merely a representation of a powerful and luminous reality beyond our senses. The preacher also mentions the idea that man's destruction is insignificant in the grand scheme of things, as the spirit that first breathed upon the waters will create a new man. He concludes by urging the audience to focus less on the achievements of individuals and more on the imperishable energy that they were a part of. The sermon references passages from the book of John to support these ideas.
The Anatomy of Prayer
By Leonard Ravenhill2.6K1:25:34PrayerPSA 40:2MAT 16:24LUK 15:24ACT 1:8ROM 8:22JAS 5:16REV 2:10In this sermon, the preacher reflects on the predictions he made about the consequences of communism in Russia. He acknowledges that his warnings of devastation, violence, and destruction have come true, as he shares personal experiences of his daughter being harmed and his church being burned. The preacher emphasizes the importance of interpreting the Bible accurately and not avoiding uncomfortable truths. He calls for a divine intervention of mercy, power, and revival, stating that only through travailing and fervent prayer can the church overcome the challenges of the present day.
The Israel of God - Part 1
By T. Austin-Sparks2.1K48:40IsraelISA 53:10JHN 16:20ROM 8:22GAL 6:16In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of having a genuine heart relationship with God. He uses the analogy of a tree that appears to be real but is hollow on the inside, illustrating the danger of superficial faith. The speaker also mentions the necessity of going through trials and suffering to reveal the true treasure within. He references a message from a brother in China about the breaking of the devil to uncover the preciousness of the treasure within. The sermon concludes with a discussion of the phrase "the Israel of God" in the letter to the Galatians and references Isaiah 53:10-11.
Covenant Consciousness
By Art Katz2.1K53:47Covenant Of GodGEN 1:3JER 31:7MAT 6:33ACT 9:3ROM 8:22EPH 1:9HEB 9:15In this sermon, the preacher quotes from Karl Barth, a Swiss German theologian, who emphasizes the inseparable connection between creation and covenant. According to Barth, God's act of creation is a gift and an expression of His love, with the purpose of establishing a covenant with His people. The preacher highlights that Israel is the first nation chosen by God and that the terms of the covenant are stated by Him. The sermon also emphasizes the significance of light in creation, as it represents God's will and the declaration of life.
Teach Us to Number Our Days Part 1
By Keith Daniel1.7K47:47PSA 116:15ROM 8:1ROM 8:221CO 15:261CO 15:55HEB 2:9HEB 9:271JN 3:14REV 14:13This sermon delves into the inevitability of death and the importance of being prepared for the afterlife. It emphasizes the brevity of life, the reality of facing judgment after death, and the need for faith in Jesus Christ to overcome the fear of death and find eternal peace. The speaker shares personal stories and biblical truths to highlight the significance of being saved and living with the assurance of salvation.
The Key to Reclaiming Culture
By Ken Ham1.7K38:58GEN 1:1LEV 18:6PSA 104:6ISA 40:28MAT 19:4MAT 28:6ROM 8:22HEB 9:22This sermon emphasizes the importance of standing on the authority of God's Word, particularly focusing on the foundational history presented in Genesis. It addresses the impact of compromising biblical history, such as the belief in millions of years, on the core doctrines of Christianity. The speaker highlights the need to defend the faith by understanding and upholding the historical accuracy of the Bible, especially in the face of secular humanism and cultural challenges. The sermon stresses the significance of Genesis 1-11 as the foundation for Christian beliefs and morality, connecting it to key theological doctrines like marriage, sin, and salvation through Jesus Christ.
The Great Evil of All Sin - Part 3
By Richard Owen Roberts1.5K18:38ROM 3:23ROM 6:23ROM 8:221CO 6:181CO 11:27HEB 10:26HEB 10:311PE 1:161JN 1:9This sermon emphasizes the importance of recognizing that all sin is against God's rights, nature, name, word, person, creation, love, body, blood, and divine cautions. It highlights the consequences of sin and the need for repentance, stressing that true salvation from sin involves a transformation of heart and life, not just a desire to escape its penalty.
What Is Life About?
By Charles Anderson1.2K48:23LifeROM 8:14ROM 8:17ROM 8:22ROM 8:26In this sermon, the speaker tells a story about a tall, strong slave who catches the attention of slave traders. The speaker then shifts to talking about a philosophy class he took where the professor asked a profound question about the purpose of life. The speaker reflects on how he has learned to control his sinful nature and feed his spiritual life. He concludes by reminding the audience that as children of God, they are sons and daughters of the King and should live accordingly.
Condemned of Justified? (Romans 5:16)
By Ernest O'Neill98823:00GEN 3:22MAT 16:26ACT 2:40ROM 5:16ROM 8:221CO 15:221JN 2:15In this sermon, the speaker discusses the presence of evil and suffering in the world and how it challenges the belief in a perfect future. He highlights the destruction, violence, and injustice that occur, causing a strain on the spirit. The speaker also mentions the control humans have over nature, yet the occurrence of natural disasters suggests that something is wrong in the world. He emphasizes that people from different parts of the world acknowledge the sickness and trauma present in the world. The speaker refers to Romans 8:22, which states that the entire creation is groaning and in travail, indicating God's displeasure with the world.
The Middle of the Book
By Vance Havner78611:37Word Of GodGEN 1:1GEN 3:1JHN 1:1JHN 3:3ROM 8:221CO 15:24HEB 9:22In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes that God has a definite purpose from the beginning of creation, as recorded in the Bible. The purpose of God is divided into three chapters: the first chapter includes the creation of everything and the fall of man in the Garden of Eden. The second chapter begins after the fall and continues until the return of Jesus Christ, focusing on God's plan of redemption through his chosen people, Israel, and culminating in the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross. The speaker encourages believers to align themselves with God's purpose and trust that even difficult circumstances can contribute to the fulfillment of that purpose.
This Groaning World
By Ian Paisley50624:37ROM 8:22In this sermon, the preacher discusses the concept of a sinless earth and how it became a sinful and sad world due to the introduction of sin. The consequences of sin are described as a curse that affects all aspects of creation, including the inhabitants of the earth. The preacher emphasizes that no one can escape the groaning and suffering caused by sin, regardless of their wealth, knowledge, or status. However, there is hope for redemption and adoption as children of God, which will ultimately lead to the end of groaning and the restoration of glory.
Rejoice in Hope
By Tim Conway45515:18ROM 8:22This sermon focuses on the concept of rejoicing in hope as discussed in Romans 12:12. It delves into the nature of hope, contrasting worldly hopes with the solid hope found in Christ. The speaker emphasizes the eternal and unshakable nature of the hope Christians possess, highlighting the joy and assurance it brings even in the midst of suffering and trials.
Are You Confused About Prayer?
By David Wilkerson0Role of the Holy SpiritPrayerROM 8:22ROM 8:26PHP 4:6David Wilkerson addresses the confusion surrounding prayer, emphasizing that the Holy Spirit aids us in our weaknesses and intercedes for us when we struggle to know how to pray. He highlights the overwhelming nature of global events that can deter people from praying, yet insists that prayer is essential for finding peace and comfort in tumultuous times. Wilkerson encourages believers to rely on the Holy Spirit to guide their prayers, assuring them that through prayer, they can experience the presence of Christ, the sealing of God's promises, and the comfort that only the Spirit can provide.
The Whole Creation Groans
By G.W. North0Spiritual AwarenessIntercessionROM 8:22G.W. North emphasizes the necessity of being in the Spirit for true intercession, highlighting that only through a holy union with the Holy Spirit can one truly understand and respond to the groans of creation. He contrasts the humanistic aspirations of creating a perfect society with the spiritual reality that creation longs for the manifestation of the sons of God. North urges that intercession is not merely about words but requires a deep spiritual connection and awareness of both the Spirit's and creation's cries. He stresses that true intercessors must align their spirits with God's feelings towards creation's suffering, as intercession is a joint ministry between the Spirit and Christ's followers. Ultimately, the groans of creation are a call for the sons of God to rise and respond to the spiritual needs of the world.
Only Believers Experience the Problem of Pain
By G. Campbell Morgan0Pain and SufferingFaith in GodPSA 30:5PSA 34:18ISA 41:10HAB 1:2MAT 5:4JHN 16:33ROM 8:222CO 1:31PE 5:10REV 21:4G. Campbell Morgan emphasizes that the problem of pain is uniquely felt by believers, as it arises in the context of faith and the awareness of God's presence. He explains that while pain exists universally, it becomes a profound challenge for those who believe in God, leading them to question His actions amidst suffering. Morgan references Habakkuk's lament and the struggle of believers who grapple with the apparent silence of God in times of distress. He asserts that the sensitivity to pain is a reflection of God's love within us, and it is through this love that we find hope amidst our suffering. Ultimately, the sermon highlights that our understanding of pain is intertwined with our relationship with God and the hope He provides.
Horizoned by Christ
By T. Austin-Sparks0Christ as JudgeSpiritual DepthMAT 16:21JHN 8:44ACT 10:42ACT 17:31ROM 8:222CO 5:17EPH 1:10COL 1:16HEB 1:21JN 5:19T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes that Jesus Christ is ordained by God as the ultimate Judge and the 'Horizon' of all judgment, meaning that all things are determined within Him. He illustrates the Christian journey as a progression from the safety of the shore to the depths of spiritual understanding, where true fulfillment lies. Sparks highlights that the Christian life is serious and requires a commitment to deeper truths, as the Holy Spirit leads believers beyond their comfort zones. He explains that the Bible provides the only satisfactory answers to life's complexities, focusing on God's eternal intention, the historic rift caused by sin, and the significance of being 'in Christ.' Ultimately, he asserts that Christ is the defining criterion for all things, and through Him, believers find their true purpose and reconciliation with God.
Three Groans
By D.L. Moody0Intercession of the Holy SpiritGroaning of CreationROM 8:22D.L. Moody discusses the three groans found in Romans 8, emphasizing the groan of creation as it longs for redemption, the groan of the believer who yearns for spiritual fulfillment, and the groan of the Holy Spirit interceding for us in our weaknesses. Each groan reflects a deep desire for restoration and connection with God, illustrating the profound relationship between creation, humanity, and the divine. Moody encourages believers to recognize these groans as part of their spiritual journey and to find hope in the promise of future glory.
God's Approbation of His Works
By John Wesley0CreationGod's GoodnessGEN 1:31PSA 111:2ROM 8:22John Wesley emphasizes God's approval of His creation, stating that everything He made was 'very good.' He reflects on the perfection of the original creation, where all elements worked harmoniously for the benefit of mankind and the glory of God. Wesley argues that the current state of the world, filled with disorder and evil, is a result of human sin rather than a flaw in God's creation. He encourages believers to recognize the goodness of God in creation and to understand that the evils present today are not part of God's original design. Ultimately, Wesley calls for a deeper appreciation of God's works and a trust in His wisdom and goodness.
The Lord's Recovery Movement
By T. Austin-Sparks0Spiritual TravailGod's Burden for His PeopleNEH 1:4EST 4:16ISA 53:11DAN 9:3MAT 9:37ROM 8:222CO 5:20GAL 4:19EPH 6:121TH 5:17T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the need for a genuine recovery movement among God's people, highlighting that many are trapped in a religious system that lacks divine influence. He calls for a deep, personal burden for the Lord's testimony, urging believers to engage in spiritual travail for the unsaved and the church. Sparks points out that true ministry arises from this heart concern, which must be accompanied by a recognition of spiritual opposition and a commitment to God's interests. He encourages believers to move beyond superficial engagement and to seek a profound connection with God's purpose in their lives. Ultimately, he challenges the church to abandon complacency and embrace the weight of God's burden for His people.
When He Was in Pain, We Were in Pain
By Julian of Norwich0MAT 27:45JHN 19:25ROM 8:22COL 1:201PE 2:24Julian of Norwich preaches about the deep love and compassion of Saint Mary towards Christ, emphasizing how her great love for Him caused her immense pain. She describes the interconnected suffering between Christ and His disciples, highlighting that when He was in pain, they too shared in His suffering. Julian also reflects on how all creatures, even the elements of nature, experienced sorrow during Christ's crucifixion, illustrating the profound impact of His sacrifice on all creation.
Hurricane Jesus, Part 2
By David Servant0MAL 3:6LUK 12:49LUK 13:34ACT 5:1ROM 8:222CO 5:18David Servant addresses objections to the idea that natural disasters like Hurricane Katrina are manifestations of God's wrath, emphasizing the continuity of God's character and judgment throughout the Old and New Testaments. He refutes misconceptions about God's wrath post-Jesus' death, highlighting examples of God's judgment in the New Testament and the book of Revelation. Servant also challenges the notion that God's mercy nullifies His wrath, pointing out the importance of repentance for reconciliation with God and the impending judgment described in Scripture.
The Significance of Christ in His Cross
By T. Austin-Sparks0JHN 8:44JHN 17:23ROM 8:20ROM 8:22EPH 1:10COL 1:20COL 2:15T. Austin-Sparks preaches about the significance of the Lord Jesus Christ and His work in relation to the entire created universe. He emphasizes that Jesus is the key to everything, and only through Him can creation find purpose and fulfillment. The disruption of the divine order by Satan and its impact on the cosmic, human, marriage, and church realms is explored, highlighting the need for redemption and restoration through the Cross of Christ to bring harmony and unity. The sermon underscores that victory over evil forces and division can only be achieved by embracing the power of the Cross and allowing Christ to be the center of all aspects of life.
Compassion Makes a Difference
By Jack Hyles0PRO 19:17LUK 10:33ROM 8:22GAL 6:2Jack Hyles preaches about the importance of compassion in various aspects of life, emphasizing the need to care for others, especially the vulnerable and hurting. He reflects on the significance of sharing love, understanding, and empathy in a world filled with suffering and sorrow, highlighting how compassion can make a profound difference in people's lives. Hyles urges believers to maintain a heart of compassion alongside their faith and fundamental beliefs, stressing that without compassion, all other victories and achievements hold little value.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
The whole creation groaneth and travaileth - If it be inquired how the Gentile world groaned and travailed in pain; let them who explain this of the fabric of the material world, tell us how that groans and travails? They must needs own it to be a borrowed and allusive phrase: but in the sense above given, the very literal construction may be admitted.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
For we know that the whole creation groaneth and travaileth in pain together until now--If for man's sake alone the earth was cursed, it cannot surprise us that it should share in his recovery. And if so, to represent it as sympathizing with man's miseries, and as looking forward to his complete redemption as the period of its own emancipation from its present sin-blighted condition, is a beautiful thought, and in harmony with the general teaching of Scripture on the subject. (See on Pe2 3:13).
John Gill Bible Commentary
For we know that the whole creation groaneth,.... As a woman with child, ready to bring forth: for it is added, and travaileth in pain together until now; regeneration is owing to the grace of God, which is compared to "seed", of which men are born again; the means of conveying it is the Gospel, and ministers are the instruments of begetting souls to Christ, and who travail in birth till Christ be formed in them: now the Gospel being carried by the apostles into the Gentile world, and being succeeded there, it was like a woman big with child, ready to bring forth many sons to God; for as it was prophesied, so it came to pass, that "more are the children of the desolate, than the children of the married wife", Isa 54:1; and these births were attended with pain. The apostles preached the word with much contention, and the Gentiles received it in much affliction, though with the joy of the Holy Ghost; as a woman rejoices when a man child is brought forth, though the birth has been attended with pain and labour. This was an united groan, and travail of all the converted Gentiles in the several parts of the world, together with the ministers of the Gospel, earnestly desiring more instances of conversion among them; and this vehement desire had appeared "until now", from the first time of the preaching of the Gospel among the Gentiles, to the writing of this epistle; and supposes, that though there were many spiritual births, there were more to come; as there has been, and will be more abundantly, in the latter day: and moreover, this painful labour, and these united groans for spiritual births, the apostles were well acquainted with, and therefore could say, "we know", &c. by their preaching among them, in whom they could easily observe, and do in their writings take notice, how eagerly desirous they were of having the Gospel preached unto them. (The whole creation was brought under a curse because of Adam's sin. This curse will be removed in the eternal state when Christ will restore the creation to the way it was in the beginning. Editor.)
Tyndale Open Study Notes
8:22 The pains of childbirth is a metaphor for the longing of creation (see also Matt 24:8; Mark 13:8; John 16:20-22).