Romans 8:35
Verse
Context
More than Conquerors
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.35Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or distress or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? 36As it is written: “For Your sake we face death all day long; we are considered as sheep to be slaughtered.”
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? - I do think that this question has been generally misunderstood. The apostle is referring to the persecutions and tribulations to which genuine Christians were exposed through their attachment to Christ, and the gracious provision God had made for their support and final salvation. As in this provision God had shown his infinite love to them in providing Jesus Christ as their sin-offering, and Jesus Christ had shown his love in suffering death upon the cross for them; so, here, he speaks of the love of the followers of God to that Christ who had first loved them. Therefore the question is not, Who shall separate the love of Christ from us? or prevent Christ from loving us? but, Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Who or what shall be able to remove our affection from him? And the questions that immediately follow show that this is the sense of the passage; for the tribulation, distress, etc., which he enumerates, are things by which they might be affected, but by which Christ could not be affected; and, consequently, the question most evidently refers to their love to him who had first loved them, and, while it affords a strong presumption of their perseverance, furnishes a most powerful argument against apostasy. Shall tribulation? - Θλιψις, grievous affliction, or distress of any kind; from θλιβω, to compress, oppress, straiten, etc.; any thing by which a man is rendered miserable. Or distress? - Στενοχωρια, a word of nearly the same import with the former, but more intense in its signification. It signifies straitness, being hemmed in on every side, without the possibility of getting out or escaping; from στενος, strait or narrow, and χωρος, a place. Or persecution? - Διωγμος, from διωκω, to pursue, press upon, prosecute, signifies such pursuing as an enemy uses in order to overtake the object of his malice, that he may destroy him. Or famine? - Λιμος, from λειπω, to fail; the total want of bread, and all the necessaries of life. Or nakedness? - Γυμνοτης, being absolutely without clothing; forcibly expressed by the derivation of the word γυια μονα εχων, having one's limbs only, being totally unclothed. Or peril? - Κινδυνος, a state of extreme and continued danger, perplexing and distressing with grievous forebodings and alarms; derived from κινει τας οδυνας, it excites anguish; because much evil is felt, and much more feared. Or sword? - Μαχαιρα, slaughter; the total destruction of life, and especially beheading, and such like, done by the order of the civil magistrate; for the word is used in this epistle, Rom 13:4, to signify the authority and power which he has of judicially terminating life; i.e. of inflicting capital punishment.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Who shall separate us from the love of Christ?--This does not mean "our love to Christ," as if, Who shall hinder us from loving Christ? but "Christ's love to us," as is clear from the closing words of the chapter, which refer to the same subject. Nor would the other sense harmonize with the scope of the chapter, which is to exhibit the ample ground of the believer's confidence in Christ. "It is no ground of confidence to assert, or even to feel, that we will never forsake Christ; but it is the strongest ground of assurance to be convinced that His love will never change" [HODGE]. shall tribulation, &c.--"None of these, nor all together, how terrible soever to the flesh, are tokens of God's wrath, or the least ground for doubt of His love. From whom could such a question come better than from one who had himself for Christ's sake endured so much? (See 2Co. 11:11-33; Co1 4:10-13). The apostle says not (remarks CALVIN nobly) "What," but "Who," just as if all creatures and all afflictions were so many gladiators taking arms against the Christians [THOLUCK].
John Gill Bible Commentary
Who shall separate us from the love of Christ?.... By "the love of Christ" is not meant the saints' love to Christ, but his love to them; he is indeed the object of their love, and so strong is their love to him, that it can never be destroyed; for though there may be an abatement in the fervour of it, it can never be lost; yet this is never called the love of Christ: besides, the apostle is speaking not of their love to Christ, but of the love of God and Christ to them, throughout the context; and his design is, to strengthen the faith of God's people, and comfort their souls, under their various afflictions: now nothing more effectually serves such purposes, than the love of Christ; and the things here instanced in are such, as are apt to inject doubts and fears, about interest in the love of Christ, and of the love of God in Christ, as it is interpreted in some following verses: moreover, the separation here interrogated is not of Christ from us, but of us from him; whereas was it our love to Christ, which is here meant, it should rather have been put, who shall separate him from us, and not us from the love of Christ? That Christ does love the elect of God, who are the persons here spoken of, is evident from his undertaking for them, espousing their persons, assuming their nature, dying in their room and stead, paying off their debts, and redeeming their persons, by going to prepare a place for them, by interceding for them, by supplying them with all grace, and using them in the most free and familiar manner; which love of his is wonderful, matchless, and inconceivable, special and peculiar, free and undeserved, exceeding affectionate, unchangeable, durable, and for ever. This is the bond of union to Christ; and the union which is made by it is exceeding near and close; it is real; perfect, and indissoluble, nothing can separate from it: not tribulation; or "affliction", which springs from his love, and is the fruit of it; and notwithstanding that, he rests in his love; this is not taken away, but is often sensibly enjoyed, in the midst of afflictions: or distress; whether of body or mind; straitness in the affairs and circumstances of life, or straitness of mind, in the exercise of grace, and discharge of duty; for "though we believe not, yet he abides faithful", Ti2 2:13, to his covenant and promises: or persecution: from the world; for this is rather an evidence that Christ has loved them chosen and called them, because the world hates them: or famine: want of the necessaries of life, as food and drink; being exposed to great hunger and thirst, which has sometimes been the lot of the dear children of God: or nakedness; want of proper clothing, or the use of common apparel; wandering about in sheep skins and goat skins, which has been the case of some, of whom the world was not worthy, and so no proof of separation from the love of Christ: or peril; dangers from different quarters, by different persons and ways; such as the Apostle Paul had trial of, who was highly in the love of Christ, Co1 11:26; or sword; that is, death by the sword; which death James the brother of John died, Act 12:13, now, though this may separate the head from the body, and separate soul and body, yet cannot separate from the love of Christ.
Romans 8:35
More than Conquerors
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.35Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or distress or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? 36As it is written: “For Your sake we face death all day long; we are considered as sheep to be slaughtered.”
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Chopping Wood for Father
By Carter Conlon5.2K56:24GraceROM 8:35ROM 8:37In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of preaching the passion and compassion of God rather than a hard religion that people cannot live up to. He shares that preaching in the strength of God, rather than one's own strength, leads to greater effectiveness and fulfillment. The preacher warns against the danger of losing the testimony and heart of God within the church, which can happen when the focus becomes on working for God's approval rather than embracing the redemption provided by Jesus. He encourages the listeners to overcome the mindset of trying to please God through their own efforts and instead embrace the truth that God is already pleased with them.
Crucified With Christ
By Leonard Ravenhill4.2K1:23:21Crucified With ChristROM 7:18ROM 8:1ROM 8:5ROM 8:9ROM 8:13ROM 8:18ROM 8:26ROM 8:28ROM 8:31ROM 8:35ROM 8:371CO 3:1In this sermon, the speaker describes a gruesome scene of a man being crucified and then disemboweled, emphasizing the horror and brutality of the cross. The speaker then transitions to discussing the importance of having a vision for the lost souls in the world and the lack of vision in the church. He highlights the presence of envy, strife, and divisions among believers, suggesting that immaturity is hindering the church from receiving the revelations God wants to show them. The speaker concludes by emphasizing the need for believers to die to themselves and be filled with the Spirit in order to experience true life and fulfillment.
(Biographies) John Bunyan
By John Piper4.1K1:33:15JDG 16:30MAT 6:33ROM 8:32ROM 8:352CO 1:91TI 6:17HEB 13:8In this sermon, the speaker shares a story about a family who recently joined their church. The family had faced difficulties in their previous church but had learned about the sovereignty of God during their time at the new church. Shortly after joining, they received news that their son had a serious health issue. Despite the challenges they faced, the husband continued preaching, relying on the sovereignty of God. The speaker also references a scene from "The Pilgrim's Progress" where the protagonist realizes he has a key called promise that can unlock any lock in Doubting Castle. The sermon emphasizes the need to trust in God's sovereignty even in the midst of difficult circumstances.
To Live Is Christ, to Die Is Gain (Compilation)
By Compilations3.8K27:36CompilationJER 5:1JER 12:3JER 29:11MAT 5:28MAT 6:33ROM 8:35ROM 8:37In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the need for more zeal and a fresh Bible study in the lives of believers. He describes a vision that the prophet Jeremiah had, where he saw the state of the people in Jerusalem and their lack of true faith. The preacher also discusses the theology of dying for Christ and the concept of martyrdom, highlighting the example of Jesus who gave his life as a sacrifice for others. He concludes by sharing the powerful message of Romans 8:35, which assures believers that nothing can separate them from the love of Christ.
I Have All - I Am Full
By Leonard Ravenhill3.2K1:04:50ROM 8:35In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the unbreakable love of Christ and the victory believers have in Him. He lists various challenges and hardships that believers may face, such as distribution, distress, famine, peril, nakedness, and sword. However, he assures that believers are more than conquerors through Christ. The preacher also shares a story about a woman who washed Jesus' feet with her tears, highlighting the power of forgiveness and redemption. He encourages believers to set their affection on eternal things, as the market never changes and God will supply all their needs. The sermon emphasizes the centrality of Christ and the abundance of grace available to believers.
Pouring Oil on Your Pillow
By Carter Conlon3.2K39:41DifficultiesLAM 3:23ROM 8:28ROM 8:35In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of offering a sacrifice of praise to God, even in difficult situations. He highlights the verse from Romans 8:28, which states that all things, both good and bad, work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to His purpose. The preacher encourages believers to trust in God's plan and to seek revelation in times of trial, understanding that God brings them into difficult places to fulfill His purpose in their lives. The sermon concludes with a reference to the story of Jacob's dream, where God promises to be with him and bless him and his descendants.
Fully Persuaded
By David Wilkerson3.1K42:33ROM 8:35This sermon emphasizes the importance of being fully persuaded in one's faith, drawing from the example of Paul the apostle who declared his unwavering belief in God's ability to keep what was committed to Him. The speaker encourages the audience to be fully convinced of God's love that nothing can separate us from it, even in the midst of trials and challenges. The sermon also highlights the necessity of praying in the Holy Spirit to combat the hindrances and attacks of the enemy, emphasizing the power of the Holy Spirit in revealing truth and bringing life to the Word of God.
A Life of Victory
By J. Sidlow Baxter3.1K47:53VictoryMAT 6:33ROM 8:1ROM 8:9ROM 8:11ROM 8:35ROM 8:38In this sermon, the preacher begins by emphasizing the comforting truth that there is no condemnation for those who belong to Christ and that nothing can separate them from God's love. However, he then raises the question of what happens in the in-between, the present life with its challenges and temptations. He shares a story about a father who reluctantly allows his daughter to go to a summer camp, but decides to secretly observe what goes on there. The preacher highlights the importance of freedom in the Christian life and points to Romans 8 as the key to understanding it, emphasizing the role of the Holy Spirit in guiding and empowering believers.
The God Who Will Bring Good Out of Bad
By Randy Alcorn2.2K45:55God's PurposesROM 8:28ROM 8:35ROM 8:37In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of believing in the truth of the Word of God. They acknowledge that there may be doubts and challenges, but encourage listeners to submit themselves to the scripture and seek God's insight. The speaker shares two tragic stories of loss and suffering, highlighting the promise that God will sustain and comfort believers in times of great evil and suffering. They also emphasize the idea that God can use these experiences for our eternal good and His eternal glory. The sermon concludes with the reminder that we are characters in God's story of redemption, and that despite the challenges we face, the story has a fantastic beginning and a never-ending, glorious ending.
1992 Missions Conference Talk - Part 7
By Richard Wurmbrand2.0K05:48MAT 5:44MAT 10:28MAT 24:13ROM 8:352CO 12:10PHP 1:21HEB 13:31PE 3:141PE 4:16REV 2:10This sermon emphasizes the importance of love, compassion, and faith in the face of persecution, particularly focusing on the struggles of persecuted Christians in various countries. It highlights the need for support, prayer, and understanding for those facing persecution, especially in communist and Muslim nations. The message encourages believers to show love, strength, and courage in the midst of adversity, following the example of persecuted Christians who demonstrate unwavering faith and love even in the most challenging circumstances.
(Romans) Romans 8:15-39
By Zac Poonen1.9K47:09ROM 8:19ROM 8:28ROM 8:35In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes that the promise in Romans 8:28 is specifically for those who love God and are called according to His purpose. The promise states that God will cause everything that happens in their life to work together for their good. The preacher highlights the importance of seeking God's purpose and not being driven by love for money or worldly fame. The ultimate goal of God for believers is to make them like Jesus Christ, and He works through the Holy Spirit to fulfill this purpose.
Imperatives - Consecration
By Devern Fromke1.8K1:09:32ConsecrationGEN 3:21MAT 6:33MAT 16:24MRK 10:21LUK 14:33ROM 8:352CO 5:15In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the need for true consecration and self-sacrifice in the Christian life. He refers to the story of the rich young ruler who asked Jesus what he must do to inherit eternal life. Jesus tells him to sell all his possessions and give to the poor, but the young man goes away sorrowful because he finds it impossible to do. The speaker highlights the importance of understanding God's way and the true source of life and love, which is found in our union with Him. He challenges the materialistic and easy mindset of modern Christianity and calls for a radical sell-all, give-all consecration to God.
Counterfeit Conversion (4 of 6)
By Winkie Pratney1.8K57:03MAT 5:11MAT 6:33ACT 14:22ROM 5:3ROM 8:352CO 7:4REV 7:14In this sermon, the speaker talks about a morning prayer meeting where many high school students gathered to pray. He mentions that there was a spiritual awakening in the area. The speaker then discusses the importance of addressing both rights and wrongs when counseling people and leading them to the Lord. He uses the analogy of plowing rocky ground to emphasize the need to dig deep and remove any obstacles. The sermon concludes with a prayer for wisdom and a desire to walk in God's ways.
A Service of Sorrow (World Trade Center Response)
By John Piper1.7K33:06ROM 8:35In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the foundation of hope for believers, which is the unbreakable love of God in Christ Jesus. He highlights that nothing can separate us from this love, not even death or suffering. The preacher also emphasizes the importance of obedience to the gospel of God and warns of the judgment that will begin with the household of God. He encourages the congregation to trust their souls to the faithful Creator and reminds them that their hope is based on the fact that God did not spare His own Son but delivered Him for us all.
Called to Sonship
By Dana Congdon1.6K1:13:37SonshipROM 8:14ROM 8:28ROM 8:31ROM 8:35ROM 8:37In this sermon, the speaker discusses the eternal purpose of God for Christians, focusing on the letter of Paul to the Romans. The first message explored the power of the gospel for salvation and how it is the starting point for experiencing God's eternal purpose. The speaker emphasizes that this process is guided by God and involves being undone and then reconstituted in three areas: church life, body life, and personal transformation. The speaker references Paul's experience of being transformed by the active, powerful word of God in Romans chapter seven.
A Greater Power
By Basilea Schlink1.6K04:35Radio ShowMAT 10:37MAT 16:24ROM 5:5ROM 8:35ROM 8:39ROM 12:21CO 13:13In this sermon, the speaker discusses the power of love for Jesus in overcoming affliction, temptation, suffering, and even death. The story of Father Maximilian Kolber, a priest martyred in Auschwitz, is shared as an example of someone who chose to die out of fervent love for Jesus. Despite being in a starvation cell, Father Kolber's love for Jesus was so strong that he did not scream or lose his mind like others. The speaker emphasizes that divine life, which is fueled by the love of God, is greater than any tribulation or affliction we may face. The sermon encourages listeners to cultivate a deep love for Jesus and to accompany him on his path.
The Amish Northkill Massacre
By Dean Taylor1.6K41:44ROM 8:35This sermon delves into the story of Jacob Hostetler and the Hofstetler Massacre, highlighting the challenging decision to follow Jesus' teachings on nonresistance even in the face of extreme danger and tragedy. It emphasizes the importance of fully surrendering to Christ and trusting in His love and protection, even in the midst of turmoil and persecution.
One of the Master's Choice Sayings
By C.H. Spurgeon1.4K39:28PSA 73:26MAT 6:33MAT 11:28MAT 14:16JHN 6:37ROM 8:35REV 3:4In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes that as believers, we should not be burdened by excessive serving or suffering. Our surroundings should not have control over us, but rather, we should have control over them. Through Christ's love, we are called to be more than conquerors in all things. The preacher encourages the audience not to depart from Christ because of any circumstances or challenges they may face. He reminds them that many others have faced difficult circumstances and yet remained steadfast in their faith. The strength that was given to those who came before us is also available to us. The preacher addresses the concerns of the audience, assuring them that no matter where they live or what they endure, they can still remain close to Christ. He emphasizes that being busy and engaged in work is not a disadvantage, as Satan is often far from those who are occupied. Even in the most arduous of tasks, we can find rest and strength in drawing near to the Lord. The preacher also addresses the issue of wealth, acknowledging that it can often lead people away from Christ. However, he reminds the few wealthy saints that they too can remain close to Christ and that riches do not have to hinder their relationship with Him. He encourages them to not let the responsibilities and burdens of wealth distract them from their fellowship with the Lord. Overall, the sermon emphasizes the importance of remaining steadfast in our faith regardless of our circumstances, and the availability of God's strength and grace to help us overcome any challenges we may face.
Absolute Surrender (Romans 11-12)
By Colin Peckham1.3K49:52ROM 6:14ROM 8:1ROM 8:35ROM 12:1In this sermon, the preacher uses the analogy of Niagara Falls to illustrate the continuous flow of God's grace. He emphasizes that God's grace is like a mighty river that never stops flowing, regardless of whether we can see it or not. The preacher then discusses the story of Abraham as an example of someone who believed in God and was counted as righteous. He encourages the audience to allow God to take control of their lives and produce beautiful melodies and harmonies. The sermon concludes with a story about a young man playing the organ in a church, which symbolizes the beauty and power of God's grace.
Nonresistance—the Theology of Martyrdom
By Dean Taylor1.3K59:41NonresistanceMAT 6:33MAT 10:16LUK 6:35ROM 8:351CO 1:18In this sermon, Brother Denny emphasizes the importance of seeing oneself as a soldier of Jesus Christ and enduring hardships. He encourages the congregation to reflect on their lives and question what truly matters in the face of adversity. The sermon also touches on the idea of making choices that edify and glorify God, rather than simply following a set of rules. Brother Denny concludes by emphasizing the need for a personal relationship with Jesus Christ and a clear testimony in order to truly live a blessed and purposeful life.
Fear Not, I Am the First and the Last
By Jack Hyles1.3K32:48ISA 41:10MAT 6:33MAT 10:28ROM 8:35PHP 4:19REV 1:17REV 7:17In this sermon, the preacher encourages his audience to trust in God and not be afraid. He emphasizes the importance of hard work and believing that God will provide for their needs. The preacher shares examples of how God has taken care of him and his church in the past, even in difficult times. He reminds the audience that no matter what happens in the world, Jesus will always be there for them.
Malachi #2: I Have Loved You
By Ed Miller1.1K1:06:53MAL 1:2MAL 1:6JHN 1:41ROM 8:31ROM 8:35In this sermon, the speaker discusses the book of Malachi and how God addresses the problems of his people. The speaker explains that God goes beyond dealing with the symptoms and digs deep to address the root problems. The speaker emphasizes that God's love for his people is unwavering and nothing in the universe can separate believers from his love. The sermon encourages listeners to trust in God's love and to allow him to address the underlying issues in their lives.
John 3:16
By Neil Fraser1.1K38:14PRO 28:1ROM 8:28ROM 8:31ROM 8:35ROM 8:37In this sermon, the speaker discusses three key things that made a difference in the lives of certain individuals, particularly the apostle Paul. Firstly, Paul had grasped the purpose of God, understanding that all things work together for good for those who love God and are called according to His purpose. Secondly, Paul understood the provision of God, recognizing that God freely gives all things to those who believe in Him, as demonstrated through the sacrifice of His own Son. Lastly, Paul embraced the power of God, knowing that through Christ, believers are more than conquerors and can overcome any obstacle. The speaker encourages the audience to also grasp these three things and find assurance in their faith.
Christ in 08 in Romans
By Jim Flanigan87053:56ROM 1:3ROM 8:31ROM 8:35In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of preaching the Gospel and focusing on Jesus Christ as the heart of the message. He highlights that Jesus is the Son of God and also descended from the lineage of David. The preacher mentions that some believers struggle to fully grasp the truth of eternal security despite the clear scriptures on the matter. The sermon concludes by reminding listeners that there will be a time of review and accountability for our work and service, urging them to live faithfully in the meantime. Throughout the sermon, the preacher emphasizes the centrality of Christ in the Gospel message.
Progress of Redemption #12
By David Shirley85855:42RedemptionGEN 1:1MAT 6:33JHN 10:29ACT 11:23ACT 14:22ROM 8:35REV 21:1In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the inseparable connection between the natural and spiritual realms. The central theme is the power and purpose of Jesus Christ, with the key message being that everyone will see his return. The sermon highlights the hope and anticipation of Christ's second coming as the ultimate answer for the world. It also emphasizes the concept of overcoming, prevailing, conquering, and victory, which are all interconnected and prevalent throughout the book of Revelation. The sermon concludes by discussing the doctrine of judgment and the ultimate restoration of all things in a new heaven and earth.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? - I do think that this question has been generally misunderstood. The apostle is referring to the persecutions and tribulations to which genuine Christians were exposed through their attachment to Christ, and the gracious provision God had made for their support and final salvation. As in this provision God had shown his infinite love to them in providing Jesus Christ as their sin-offering, and Jesus Christ had shown his love in suffering death upon the cross for them; so, here, he speaks of the love of the followers of God to that Christ who had first loved them. Therefore the question is not, Who shall separate the love of Christ from us? or prevent Christ from loving us? but, Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Who or what shall be able to remove our affection from him? And the questions that immediately follow show that this is the sense of the passage; for the tribulation, distress, etc., which he enumerates, are things by which they might be affected, but by which Christ could not be affected; and, consequently, the question most evidently refers to their love to him who had first loved them, and, while it affords a strong presumption of their perseverance, furnishes a most powerful argument against apostasy. Shall tribulation? - Θλιψις, grievous affliction, or distress of any kind; from θλιβω, to compress, oppress, straiten, etc.; any thing by which a man is rendered miserable. Or distress? - Στενοχωρια, a word of nearly the same import with the former, but more intense in its signification. It signifies straitness, being hemmed in on every side, without the possibility of getting out or escaping; from στενος, strait or narrow, and χωρος, a place. Or persecution? - Διωγμος, from διωκω, to pursue, press upon, prosecute, signifies such pursuing as an enemy uses in order to overtake the object of his malice, that he may destroy him. Or famine? - Λιμος, from λειπω, to fail; the total want of bread, and all the necessaries of life. Or nakedness? - Γυμνοτης, being absolutely without clothing; forcibly expressed by the derivation of the word γυια μονα εχων, having one's limbs only, being totally unclothed. Or peril? - Κινδυνος, a state of extreme and continued danger, perplexing and distressing with grievous forebodings and alarms; derived from κινει τας οδυνας, it excites anguish; because much evil is felt, and much more feared. Or sword? - Μαχαιρα, slaughter; the total destruction of life, and especially beheading, and such like, done by the order of the civil magistrate; for the word is used in this epistle, Rom 13:4, to signify the authority and power which he has of judicially terminating life; i.e. of inflicting capital punishment.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Who shall separate us from the love of Christ?--This does not mean "our love to Christ," as if, Who shall hinder us from loving Christ? but "Christ's love to us," as is clear from the closing words of the chapter, which refer to the same subject. Nor would the other sense harmonize with the scope of the chapter, which is to exhibit the ample ground of the believer's confidence in Christ. "It is no ground of confidence to assert, or even to feel, that we will never forsake Christ; but it is the strongest ground of assurance to be convinced that His love will never change" [HODGE]. shall tribulation, &c.--"None of these, nor all together, how terrible soever to the flesh, are tokens of God's wrath, or the least ground for doubt of His love. From whom could such a question come better than from one who had himself for Christ's sake endured so much? (See 2Co. 11:11-33; Co1 4:10-13). The apostle says not (remarks CALVIN nobly) "What," but "Who," just as if all creatures and all afflictions were so many gladiators taking arms against the Christians [THOLUCK].
John Gill Bible Commentary
Who shall separate us from the love of Christ?.... By "the love of Christ" is not meant the saints' love to Christ, but his love to them; he is indeed the object of their love, and so strong is their love to him, that it can never be destroyed; for though there may be an abatement in the fervour of it, it can never be lost; yet this is never called the love of Christ: besides, the apostle is speaking not of their love to Christ, but of the love of God and Christ to them, throughout the context; and his design is, to strengthen the faith of God's people, and comfort their souls, under their various afflictions: now nothing more effectually serves such purposes, than the love of Christ; and the things here instanced in are such, as are apt to inject doubts and fears, about interest in the love of Christ, and of the love of God in Christ, as it is interpreted in some following verses: moreover, the separation here interrogated is not of Christ from us, but of us from him; whereas was it our love to Christ, which is here meant, it should rather have been put, who shall separate him from us, and not us from the love of Christ? That Christ does love the elect of God, who are the persons here spoken of, is evident from his undertaking for them, espousing their persons, assuming their nature, dying in their room and stead, paying off their debts, and redeeming their persons, by going to prepare a place for them, by interceding for them, by supplying them with all grace, and using them in the most free and familiar manner; which love of his is wonderful, matchless, and inconceivable, special and peculiar, free and undeserved, exceeding affectionate, unchangeable, durable, and for ever. This is the bond of union to Christ; and the union which is made by it is exceeding near and close; it is real; perfect, and indissoluble, nothing can separate from it: not tribulation; or "affliction", which springs from his love, and is the fruit of it; and notwithstanding that, he rests in his love; this is not taken away, but is often sensibly enjoyed, in the midst of afflictions: or distress; whether of body or mind; straitness in the affairs and circumstances of life, or straitness of mind, in the exercise of grace, and discharge of duty; for "though we believe not, yet he abides faithful", Ti2 2:13, to his covenant and promises: or persecution: from the world; for this is rather an evidence that Christ has loved them chosen and called them, because the world hates them: or famine: want of the necessaries of life, as food and drink; being exposed to great hunger and thirst, which has sometimes been the lot of the dear children of God: or nakedness; want of proper clothing, or the use of common apparel; wandering about in sheep skins and goat skins, which has been the case of some, of whom the world was not worthy, and so no proof of separation from the love of Christ: or peril; dangers from different quarters, by different persons and ways; such as the Apostle Paul had trial of, who was highly in the love of Christ, Co1 11:26; or sword; that is, death by the sword; which death James the brother of John died, Act 12:13, now, though this may separate the head from the body, and separate soul and body, yet cannot separate from the love of Christ.