Romans 8:33
Verse
Context
God Works in All Things
32He who did not spare His own Son but gave Him up for us all, how will He not also, along with Him, freely give us all things?33Who will bring any charge against God’s elect? It is God who justifies.34Who is there to condemn us? For Christ Jesus, who died, and more than that was raised to life, is at the right hand of God—and He is interceding for us.
Sermons




Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
This and the two following verses contain a string of questions, most appropriately introduced and most powerfully urged, tending to show the safety of the state of those who have believed the Gospel of the grace of God. I shall lay these verses down as they are pointed by the best Greek critics: - "Who shall lay any thing to the charge of God's elect? - God who justifieth? Who is he that condemneth? - Christ who died? or, rather, who is risen again? He, who is at the right hand of God? He, who maketh intercession for us? Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? - Tribulation? or distress? or persecution? or famine? or nakedness? or peril? or sword?" In all these questions the apostle intimates that if neither God nor Christ would bring any charge against them who love him, none else could. And as God justifies through Christ who died, consequently no charge can lie against these persons, as God alone could produce any; and He, so far from doing this, has justified them - freely forgiven their trespasses. For the proper meaning and sense of the terms chosen, elect, called, etc., etc., see the discourse prefixed to this epistle; and especially Section 6, p. 19, etc., and Section 7, p. 23, etc.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Who shall lay anything to the charge of--or, "bring any charge against." God's elect?--the first place in this Epistle where believers are styled "the elect." In what sense this is meant will appear in next chapter.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Who shall lay anything to the charge of God's elect?.... The elect of God are a certain select number of persons, whom he has so loved, as of his sovereign good will and pleasure, to choose in Christ before the foundation of the world, unto eternal life and salvation, by certain ways and means of his own appointing, as sanctification and faith, so that they are peculiarly his: but are these persons chargeable with nothing criminal? yes, with Adam's sin; with a want of original righteousness; with multitudes of sins before conversion, some of them with very great ones; and all, even after conversion, with frequent infirmities and backslidings: and will none rise up and exhibit charges of this nature against them? yes, even now, they very often bring charges against themselves; they are very apt to charge one another; Satan, the accuser of the brethren, lays many things to their charge very frequently, and so do the men of the world; but all these charges avail nothing, since none of the divine persons, Father, Son, and Spirit, lay anything against them: not God the Father, for it is God that justifieth; he against whom sin is committed, who is the lawgiver, and the righteous judge, justifies them from every charge; not by teaching them the way of justification, nor by infusing righteousness into them, or on account of any works of righteousness done by them, but by pronouncing them righteous through the imputation of the righteousness of his Son unto them: observe, that "God's elect", as such, are the objects of justification; which proves the eternity of it; the speciality of it as belonging to particular persons, and the everlasting security and continuance of it.
Romans 8:33
God Works in All Things
32He who did not spare His own Son but gave Him up for us all, how will He not also, along with Him, freely give us all things?33Who will bring any charge against God’s elect? It is God who justifies.34Who is there to condemn us? For Christ Jesus, who died, and more than that was raised to life, is at the right hand of God—and He is interceding for us.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
(1 Peter - Part 27): Who Is He That Will Harm You?
By A.W. Tozer25K38:43FearGEN 4:8MAT 5:11JHN 3:16ROM 8:33ROM 8:35PHP 4:131PE 3:13In this sermon, the preacher describes the physical deterioration of a man who is nearing death. Despite his weakened state, the preacher emphasizes that the devil and death cannot harm the man's spirit or soul. The preacher draws parallels to the martyrdom of two missionaries who were killed for their faith, highlighting that although their physical bodies were destroyed, their souls were preserved by God. The preacher also references biblical figures such as Stephen and Abel to illustrate that physical harm does not diminish one's worth or closeness to God.
Are You a Bruised Reed?
By Keith Daniel4.8K1:28:45Following ChristECC 3:3ISA 22:20ISA 40:1MAT 20:26MAT 25:23ROM 8:331TH 5:11In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of God's promises and the ministry of encouragement. He references Isaiah and the Old Testament to highlight the rich promises of a mighty Savior. The preacher also discusses the significance of the narrow road and the mansion that God has prepared for believers. He emphasizes the need for encouragement in the Christian journey and the role it plays in preventing people from giving up. The sermon concludes with the image of Pilgrim encountering the keeper of the house, who offers encouragement and rejoices in Pilgrim's conversion.
Fear Not
By Carter Conlon1.4K31:39FearGEN 15:1PSA 46:1ISA 41:10MAT 6:33ROM 8:33PHP 4:132TI 1:9In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of standing as the bride of Jesus Christ and the confidence that comes with it. He encourages the congregation to share their testimonies of how God has transformed their lives and provided them with strength and courage. The preacher reminds the audience that they are not defined by the devil or their own doubts, but by what Christ says about them. He assures them that no matter the challenges they face, they should not fear because God's plan for their lives is real and they will glorify Him in their generation.
Evening Thoughts - June
By Octavius Winslow0God's HolinessSpiritual GrowthNEH 9:33PSA 66:10ROM 8:33EPH 4:24HEB 10:12JAS 4:3Octavius Winslow emphasizes the significance of understanding God's holiness through the lens of our afflictions and trials. He explains that while God's chastisements may be painful, they serve a divine purpose in leading us to deeper sanctification and a more profound knowledge of God's character. Winslow encourages believers to view their struggles as opportunities for growth and transformation, ultimately leading to a closer relationship with God. He highlights the importance of prayer and the believer's reliance on Christ for strength and nourishment in their spiritual journey.
Cyrillus Hierosolymitanus
By John Gill0PredestinationElectionMAT 24:31ROM 8:33EPH 1:4John Gill discusses the teachings of Cyril of Jerusalem regarding predestination and election, emphasizing that there are distinct elect individuals chosen by God. He highlights Cyril's assertion that the elect will be gathered by angels and will not be mixed with enemies, illustrating the divine selection process. Gill also notes Cyril's acknowledgment of the Holy Spirit's role in sanctifying those written in the book of life, affirming the connection between God's choice, Christ's redemption, and the Spirit's sanctification.
Who Shall Lay Anything to the Charge of God's Elect? It Is God That Justifieth.
By John Gill0Assurance of SalvationJustificationROM 8:33John Gill preaches on Romans 8:33-34, emphasizing that no one can bring a charge against God's elect because it is God who justifies them. He explains that the elect are chosen by God, loved, and secured from condemnation through the death, resurrection, and intercession of Christ. Gill reassures the congregation that despite their sins and the accusations they may face from the world or their own hearts, they are acquitted by God's grace and Christ's righteousness. He reflects on the life of Mrs. Ann Brine, highlighting her faith and comfort in Christ, which serves as a testament to the security found in God's justification. The sermon encourages believers to rely on Christ for their salvation and to find peace in His promises.
The Doctrine of Justification, by the Righteousness of Christ, Stated and Maintained.
By John Gill0Righteousness of ChristJustificationACT 13:39ROM 4:6ROM 5:1ROM 8:33John Gill expounds on the doctrine of justification by the righteousness of Christ, emphasizing that justification is distinct from pardon and is an act of God's grace where believers are declared righteous through Christ's imputed righteousness. He clarifies that justification is not based on human works or faith as a condition, but solely on Christ's obedience and sacrifice. Gill discusses the roles of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit in the justification process, asserting that it is a complete act that occurs before faith and is rooted in God's eternal decree. He concludes that believers are justified from all things through Christ, who fulfills the law's demands and provides a perfect righteousness that cannot be lost.
The Doctrine of Justification 7. Its Objects
By A.W. Pink0JustificationGrace Of GodISA 43:25JER 31:3JHN 3:18ROM 3:19ROM 4:5ROM 4:25ROM 5:6ROM 8:33EPH 2:31TI 3:16A.W. Pink explores the doctrine of justification, emphasizing that God justifies the ungodly, not based on their works but through faith in Christ's righteousness. He clarifies that justification is a legal declaration from God, distinct from the believer's experiential state, and that all humans, including the elect, are born under condemnation until they believe. Pink highlights that justification is not about inherent righteousness but about God's grace extended to sinners, illustrating this with biblical examples like Abraham and the thief on the cross. He stresses that faith is the means by which one receives this justification, underscoring the radical nature of God's mercy towards the most wretched. Ultimately, Pink affirms that God's justification is a miraculous act of grace that offers hope to all who believe, regardless of their past sins.
The Doctrine of Justification 10. Its Results
By A.W. Pink0Assurance of SalvationJustificationROM 8:33A.W. Pink emphasizes the absolute and final nature of justification for believers, asserting that it is God who justifies and that this justification is irrevocable. He explains that believers are not only forgiven but also glorified, with their sins paid for by Christ, ensuring no condemnation remains. Pink contrasts the true Gospel of justification by faith with the conditional pardon proposed by Arminians, affirming that true justification leads to a transformed life empowered by the Holy Spirit. He concludes that justification is complete upon faith in Christ, with no degrees, and that all believers share in this glorious standing before God.
"It Is God That Justifieth"
By C.H. Spurgeon0JustificationGrace Of GodROM 8:33C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes the profound nature of justification by God, asserting that it is a divine act that no one else can perform. He explains that all humans are guilty of sin and cannot justify themselves or rely on others for justification, as only God has the authority to forgive sins committed against Him. Spurgeon illustrates God's grace through the example of Saul of Tarsus, who was transformed from a persecutor to a preacher, highlighting that God's mercy is available to all, regardless of their past. He reassures believers that once God justifies them, no one can condemn them, and this justification brings peace and assurance to the soul. Ultimately, Spurgeon calls for individuals to seek God's forgiveness directly, emphasizing the miraculous nature of His grace and the certainty of salvation through faith in Christ.
The Mercy-Seat
By T. Austin-Sparks0God's MercyThe Love of ChristPSA 84:11MIC 7:18ROM 3:25ROM 8:33HEB 9:5T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the significance of the mercy-seat in the Old Testament, which symbolizes the steadfast love and grace of God, ultimately fulfilled in Jesus Christ. He explains that the mercy-seat, central to the tabernacle, represents God's covenant love and the atonement made through Christ's sacrifice. Sparks highlights that Jesus is our mercy-seat, where God meets humanity, offering grace rather than judgment. He draws parallels between the mercy-seat and God's unwavering love for Israel, despite their failures, illustrating the depth of God's loyalty and forgiveness. The sermon calls for a deeper appreciation of Jesus as the embodiment of God's mercy and love.
A Due Consideration of God Necessary
By John Owen0God's HolinessJustificationJOB 40:3JOB 42:4PSA 130:3PSA 143:2ISA 33:14ISA 43:25DAN 9:7MIC 6:6ROM 3:20ROM 8:33John Owen emphasizes the necessity of a proper understanding of God as the ultimate judge in relation to the doctrine of justification. He argues that recognizing God's greatness, holiness, and authority is crucial for understanding how one can be justified before Him. Owen illustrates that both sinners and saints, when confronted with God's majesty, are led to self-abasement and reliance on divine mercy rather than their own works. He warns against the dangers of self-conceit and the false security that comes from relying on personal righteousness. Ultimately, Owen calls for a humble approach to justification, rooted in the acknowledgment of God's grace and the sacrifice of Christ.
2 Corinthians v. 21
By John Owen0Righteousness of GodImputationLEV 16:21ISA 45:24ISA 53:6ROM 4:6ROM 8:332CO 5:172CO 5:21GAL 2:20HEB 7:261PE 2:22John Owen expounds on 2 Corinthians 5:21, emphasizing the profound truth that Christ, who knew no sin, was made sin for us through the imputation of our sins to Him. He clarifies that this does not imply any inherent sinfulness in Christ but rather highlights the grace of God in our reconciliation. Owen addresses misconceptions regarding this passage, particularly the arguments against the imputation of Christ's righteousness to believers, affirming that we are made the righteousness of God in Him. He argues that our justification is solely by God's act of imputing Christ's righteousness to us, contrasting it with the imputation of sin to Christ. Ultimately, Owen underscores the significance of understanding Christ's role in our salvation and the nature of our righteousness before God.
Many Shall Come
By J.C. Ryle0Hope in MinistrySalvationMAT 7:14MAT 8:11ROM 8:33REV 7:9J.C. Ryle emphasizes the promise of Jesus that 'many shall come from the east and west' to sit in the kingdom of heaven, encouraging believers to remain steadfast in their faith and efforts to bring others to Christ. He reflects on the fulfillment of this promise, noting that while the number of true believers may seem small, they will ultimately be a multitude in heaven, including those from diverse backgrounds and circumstances. Ryle urges Christians not to despair over the apparent lack of success in their ministry, reminding them that God's grace can reach even the most unlikely individuals. He reassures that the company in heaven will be filled with saints from all walks of life, united in faith and love for Christ. The sermon concludes with a call to action, encouraging believers to continue their work for the Lord with hope and patience, as the day of gathering approaches.
For the Troubled
By C.H. Spurgeon0God's Love and DisciplineSufferingPSA 88:1ROM 8:33C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes the shepherd's duty to care for the troubled and sick among the flock, reminding believers that adversity is a common experience, even for the faithful. He highlights that true Christians may face unique sorrows, yet they can still cling to God in their darkest moments, as seen in the psalms of lament. Spurgeon reassures that while believers may feel God's wrath, it is not punitive but rather a loving discipline meant for their growth. He encourages the afflicted to recognize that their trials can deepen their faith and understanding of God's love, ultimately leading to greater usefulness in ministering to others. The sermon concludes with a call to be thankful for troubles, as they prepare believers for eternal glory.
His Work on the Cross and What Has Been Accomplished by It
By Arno Clemens Gaebelein0JHN 12:27ROM 8:331CO 6:20GAL 6:14HEB 10:10Arno Clemens Gaebelein preaches on the profound and unfathomable significance of Christ's work on the cross, emphasizing the incomprehensible truth that the sinless Son of God was made sin for us, enduring immense suffering in fourfold ways - in Himself, from men, from the devil, and ultimately from God, bearing the full weight of divine judgment and wrath. Through His sacrificial death, He accomplished propitiation and substitution for believers, providing perfect justification, peace, acceptance, and access to God, delivering them from the power of darkness and securing an eternal inheritance. Gaebelein highlights the eternal efficacy of Christ's finished work on the cross, emphasizing the need for believers to live in light of this truth, glorifying God in body and spirit as those who have died to sin and are alive in Christ.
From Wretchedness to Rejoicing
By H.J. Vine0PSA 16:11JHN 5:24JHN 16:22ROM 4:25ROM 8:33EPH 1:6EPH 2:4JUD 1:1H.J. Vine preaches about the profound truth of God's righteousness and grace revealed in the Scriptures, where the condemned are justified, the forsaken are accepted, and the dead are made alive through the sacrificial work of Jesus Christ. The sermon emphasizes how believers are righteously cleared of condemnation, brought into eternal favor with God, and granted access to His presence through faith in Christ's atoning sacrifice. It highlights the joy and fullness of life that believers experience in knowing God as their Father and being alive in His eternal love and acceptance.
(A Good Foundation) 3. Election and Justification
By Zac Poonen0ISA 64:6ROM 5:2ROM 8:31ROM 8:33EPH 1:42TI 2:19JAS 2:241PE 1:1REV 13:8Zac Poonen preaches on the glorious truths of God's election of His children and His justification of them. He explains that God elected us according to His foreknowledge and chose us in Christ before the foundation of the world, giving us tremendous security. Justification means God credits the perfect righteousness of Christ to us, making our standing before God as perfect as Christ's, allowing us to boldly enter God's presence. Poonen emphasizes that justification is a free gift from God, not based on our works, and warns against taking sin lightly under the misconception of being elected and justified.
Now and Forever Free!
By Miles J. Stanford0ROM 8:331CO 1:7COL 1:22HEB 7:251JN 2:1Miles J. Stanford preaches about the assurance believers have in the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, who will confirm us until the end, making us blameless on the day of judgment. He emphasizes that all charges against believers will be nullified because Jesus has atoned for our sins with His precious Blood, ensuring that we will stand unimpeachable before the Lord. Through Christ's intercession and sacrifice, we are cleared from judgment, the power of death is annulled, and the condemnation of Satan is broken.
It Is God That Justifieth
By Thomas Bradbury0PSA 139:23MRK 9:24JHN 14:1ROM 1:7ROM 3:24ROM 4:25ROM 5:9ROM 5:19ROM 8:331CO 6:11JAS 2:24Thomas Bradbury preaches about the comprehensive justification provided by God through Jesus Christ, emphasizing the triumph of redeeming love over sin, death, and hell. He highlights the role of the Kinsman-Redeemer, Jesus Christ, who entered heaven to intercede for His people, sending the Holy Spirit to complete the canon of Scripture and comfort believers. The sermon delves into the universal proclamation of the Gospel to gather all objects of God's everlasting love, showcasing the diverse testimonies of believers from different backgrounds coming to bow before Jesus and receive blessings from the covenant of grace.
The Soul's Death Unto Sin
By William Gadsby0ISA 30:15HOS 2:14JHN 8:36JHN 11:25ROM 5:20ROM 6:7ROM 6:14ROM 7:4ROM 8:33William Gadsby preaches about the profound concept of being dead to sin and freed from its power through the body of Christ. He emphasizes the need for a spiritual death to self and the law, leading to a deep realization of God's grace and mercy. Gadsby highlights the ongoing struggle with sin in the believer's life, but also the ultimate victory and freedom found in Christ. He challenges the notion of continuous joy and perfection, pointing out the necessity of trials and tribulations to deepen one's faith and reliance on God's grace.
Election and Justification
By Zac Poonen0ISA 64:6ROM 5:2ROM 8:31ROM 8:33EPH 1:41PE 1:1REV 13:8Zac Poonen preaches on the profound truth of God's election and justification of His children, highlighting how God knew and chose us before the foundation of the world, offering us tremendous security and acceptance. Justification through Christ's righteousness allows us to stand perfectly before God, as if we had never sinned, granting us bold access into His presence. The imagery of fig leaves in Eden symbolizes our futile attempts to cover our sins with good works, contrasting with the perfect righteousness of Christ that truly clothes us.
Grace and Justification
By Robert Traill0ROM 3:24ROM 5:8ROM 5:20ROM 8:332CO 5:212CO 8:9GAL 2:21REV 22:17Robert Traill preaches on the apostle Paul's reproof of the church in Galatia for mixing the works of the law with the righteousness of Christ for justification. Traill highlights the arguments Paul presents against this error, emphasizing the practice of the believing Jews, the consequences of seeking righteousness by the law, and the nature of the new life in Christ. He delves into the concept of frustrating the grace of God and making Christ's death in vain, equating it to the unpardonable sin. Traill explains the grace of God as the doctrine and blessing itself, never to be frustrated, and the act of frustrating it as defeating its purpose. He concludes by emphasizing the glorious display of God's grace in justifying sinners through the righteousness of Christ alone.
Intercession
By Richard E. Bieber0PSA 67:5MAT 18:18LUK 22:31JHN 17:20ROM 8:26ROM 8:33EPH 1:16EPH 6:18PHP 1:3COL 4:3HEB 7:25Richard E. Bieber emphasizes the importance of intercession in our ministry, highlighting that our true calling and ministry began the moment we started walking with Jesus. He stresses that our primary ministry is hidden before the eyes of God, consisting of service to God in worship and service to man in intercession. Bieber urges believers to prioritize intercession, as it is the foundation upon which all other outward ministries rest, drawing examples from Jesus' prayer life and the apostle Paul's relentless intercession for others.
Let the House Be Builded - Part 1
By T. Austin-Sparks0ISA 65:9MAT 22:14JHN 6:44ROM 8:33ROM 9:16COL 3:122TI 2:10HEB 5:141PE 1:1REV 17:14The sermon 'Chosen' delves into the profound concept of election, focusing on the biblical meaning of 'eklektos' as the 'called out ones' or 'chosen out ones' by God. It explores the idea that God's election is based on His love and mercy, not on human merit, and emphasizes the importance of understanding and embracing this doctrine. The preacher highlights various Bible verses and quotes from theologians to provide a comprehensive view of election, encouraging believers to seek a deeper understanding of God's sovereign plan in salvation.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
This and the two following verses contain a string of questions, most appropriately introduced and most powerfully urged, tending to show the safety of the state of those who have believed the Gospel of the grace of God. I shall lay these verses down as they are pointed by the best Greek critics: - "Who shall lay any thing to the charge of God's elect? - God who justifieth? Who is he that condemneth? - Christ who died? or, rather, who is risen again? He, who is at the right hand of God? He, who maketh intercession for us? Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? - Tribulation? or distress? or persecution? or famine? or nakedness? or peril? or sword?" In all these questions the apostle intimates that if neither God nor Christ would bring any charge against them who love him, none else could. And as God justifies through Christ who died, consequently no charge can lie against these persons, as God alone could produce any; and He, so far from doing this, has justified them - freely forgiven their trespasses. For the proper meaning and sense of the terms chosen, elect, called, etc., etc., see the discourse prefixed to this epistle; and especially Section 6, p. 19, etc., and Section 7, p. 23, etc.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Who shall lay anything to the charge of--or, "bring any charge against." God's elect?--the first place in this Epistle where believers are styled "the elect." In what sense this is meant will appear in next chapter.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Who shall lay anything to the charge of God's elect?.... The elect of God are a certain select number of persons, whom he has so loved, as of his sovereign good will and pleasure, to choose in Christ before the foundation of the world, unto eternal life and salvation, by certain ways and means of his own appointing, as sanctification and faith, so that they are peculiarly his: but are these persons chargeable with nothing criminal? yes, with Adam's sin; with a want of original righteousness; with multitudes of sins before conversion, some of them with very great ones; and all, even after conversion, with frequent infirmities and backslidings: and will none rise up and exhibit charges of this nature against them? yes, even now, they very often bring charges against themselves; they are very apt to charge one another; Satan, the accuser of the brethren, lays many things to their charge very frequently, and so do the men of the world; but all these charges avail nothing, since none of the divine persons, Father, Son, and Spirit, lay anything against them: not God the Father, for it is God that justifieth; he against whom sin is committed, who is the lawgiver, and the righteous judge, justifies them from every charge; not by teaching them the way of justification, nor by infusing righteousness into them, or on account of any works of righteousness done by them, but by pronouncing them righteous through the imputation of the righteousness of his Son unto them: observe, that "God's elect", as such, are the objects of justification; which proves the eternity of it; the speciality of it as belonging to particular persons, and the everlasting security and continuance of it.