Romans 8:8
Verse
Context
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
So then - Because this carnal mind is enmity against God, they that are in the flesh - who are under the power of the workings of this carnal mind, (which every soul is that has not received redemption in the blood of the Lamb), - Cannot please God - Because of the rebellious workings of this principle of rebellion and hatred. And, if they cannot please God, they must be displeasing to him; and consequently in the broad road to final perdition.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
So then--nearly equivalent to "And so." they that are in--and, therefore, under the government of the flesh cannot please God--having no obediential principle, no desire to please Him.
John Gill Bible Commentary
So then they that are in the flesh,.... They that are in the flesh are the same who are said to be after it, Rom 8:5, and are there described. Such cannot please God; men, whilst unregenerate, and as such, cannot please God; for though the persons of God's elect are wellpleasing to him always, as considered in Christ, in whom they are loved with an everlasting love, and were chosen in him, and all provisions grace and glory made for them in him; yet as considered in themselves, and whilst in the flesh, do not please him; for they are straying from him, are alienated from his life, are destitute of all grace, and particularly faith, without which it is impossible to please him; are filthy and unclean, and hence, whilst such have no enjoyment of him, or communion with him; wherefore he sends his Spirit to work in them that which is wellpleasing in his sight: but this is not to be understood so much of persons, and their non-acceptableness to God, as of the inability of unregenerate men to obtain the good will of God, or make their peace with him; which they have no inclination to, being enmity against him; and were they inclined to it, know not how to go about it; nor can they draw nigh to God to treat with him about terms of peace; nor can they do that which can procure peace; Christ is the only person that can, make peace, and has done it: or rather, of the impotency of natural men to do anything which pleasing in the sight of God. There are many things which are pleasing to him, such as prayer, praise, giving of alms, keeping his commandments, and walking in his ways; but these unregenerate men cannot do in any acceptable manner to God; for they are without the Spirit, without Christ, without faith; and in all they do have no view to the glory of God: they have neither grace, nor strength, nor right principles, nor right ends.
Romans 8:8
Walking by the Spirit
7because the mind of the flesh is hostile to God: It does not submit to God’s law, nor can it do so. 8Those controlled by the flesh cannot please God.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
(Exodus) Exodus 20:26
By J. Vernon McGee3.4K02:48ExpositionalEXO 20:26MAT 6:33JHN 1:29ROM 8:81CO 1:312CO 4:5GAL 6:14In this sermon, the preacher shares a personal story about a boy who was deeply moved by the message of Jesus. The preacher emphasizes the importance of focusing on Jesus rather than the preacher himself. He expresses his desire to preach about a beautiful savior rather than delivering a beautiful sermon. The preacher also highlights the significance of avoiding any display of the flesh in the ministry and church work, as God does not approve of it.
Victory Through the Spirit
By Bob Jones Sr.2.7K14:02ROM 8:1ROM 8:6ROM 8:82CO 5:171JN 2:1In this sermon, Dr. Bob Jones Sr. focuses on the message of Romans 8:1-2, emphasizing that there is no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus and walk according to the Spirit. He highlights that as believers, we are freed from the law of sin and death through the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus. Dr. Jones emphasizes that although we still have our old nature and may stumble, it is not a justification for wrongdoing. He encourages believers to live by the grace of God and to strive for a victorious life, free from defeat and stumbling.
(Through the Bible) Esther
By Chuck Smith2.2K1:09:141SA 15:22ROM 8:8ROM 8:132CO 5:17GAL 2:20GAL 5:24COL 3:5In this sermon, the speaker discusses the story of Esther from the Bible. He begins by explaining the background of the story, including the king's unsuccessful adventure against Greece and his return home. The king decides to hold a beauty contest to find a new queen, as he misses his previous queen, Vastai. The speaker emphasizes the importance of obeying God's command to put our flesh to death and not making provisions for our sinful desires. He also highlights Esther's complete commitment to God, as she gathers the Jews to fast and pray before going to the king, saying, "If I perish, I perish." The speaker encourages the audience to have the same level of commitment in their own lives.
(Following the Footsteps of Christ) Bethlehem
By Willie Mullan1.7K1:06:42BethlehemISA 9:1ROM 8:2ROM 8:81CO 15:45HEB 4:1In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes that as wandering and lost people, we need to be drawn by someone who is wonderful. He also highlights that we are like wilderness people who need direction from a counselor. Additionally, the speaker emphasizes that we are weak and in need of deliverance from someone who is mighty. The sermon also touches on the concept of salvation bringing glory to God and peace on earth, as well as the good will of God in sending Jesus. The speaker shares a personal anecdote about a doorbell ringing for an extended period of time and relates it to the glory of the Lord shining in the sky.
K-478 Heart Circumcision
By Art Katz1.7K25:40CircumcisionROM 6:2ROM 8:82CO 6:172CO 7:1GAL 6:14PHP 3:3In this sermon, the speaker shares a report about a revival that took place at Ashbury College. The revival started with individuals coming to the microphone and confessing their sins. The speaker emphasizes the need for believers to separate themselves from sin and cleanse themselves from every defilement of body, soul, and spirit. They highlight that every sin is an expression of the root of self and that God calls us to lay the axe to this root. The sermon references Romans 6, emphasizing the importance of being dead to sin and walking in newness of life through the power of the cross. The speaker also emphasizes the need for genuine transformation and being a new creation in Christ.
The Ugly Tyrant of Self
By E.A. Johnston1.1K19:13SelfISA 14:12ROM 8:8ROM 12:1In this sermon, the preacher uses the metaphor of a dark cave to represent the presence of the "ugly tyrant of self" in our lives. This tyrant emerges from the shadows and disrupts our peace, often becoming violent and selfish. The preacher emphasizes that when we let this tyrant have its way, we cannot please God. He urges listeners to recognize and crucify the self on a daily basis, as American Christians tend to cater to self rather than crucify it. The sermon also highlights the importance of living for God and not for ourselves, referencing verses from Romans and 2 Corinthians.
Discernment in the Church
By Vance Havner1.0K25:18ISA 29:13JHN 3:3ROM 8:81CO 1:181CO 2:14EPH 5:8COL 3:11TH 5:21HEB 5:14JAS 1:5This sermon emphasizes the importance of spiritual discernment in a time of confusion and uncertainty within the Church. It contrasts the clear, unwavering beliefs of past leaders like Spurgeon with the current trend of ambiguity and compromise. The speaker highlights the need for believers to have discernment to distinguish truth from falsehood, to understand the times, and to recognize the spirits at work. The sermon also addresses the shallowness of worship, the danger of idol worship, and the necessity of being spiritually reborn to truly grasp divine truth.
That Which Is Born of Flesh
By J. Henry Brown90539:48MAT 6:33JHN 1:14JHN 3:16ROM 8:1ROM 8:82CO 5:142CO 5:17In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the urgency of preparing oneself for death. He shares a story of a young man who asks a professor how long he should give himself to prepare for death, and the professor responds with just five minutes. The preacher explains that people end up in a lost eternity because they refuse to believe in Jesus Christ and reject his salvation. He emphasizes that it is our responsibility to cooperate with the conviction of the Holy Spirit and avail ourselves of God's provision for salvation, or else face the consequences. The sermon also references the third chapter of the Gospel of John, highlighting the importance of accepting the free gift of salvation through Jesus' sacrifice on the cross.
That Which Is of the Flesh
By J. Henry Brown88835:47MAT 6:33JHN 3:2JHN 3:5JHN 3:16ROM 8:82CO 5:17In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the urgency of preparing for death. He shares a story of a young man who asks a professor how long he should give himself to prepare for death, and the professor responds with "five minutes." The preacher explains that people end up in a lost eternity because they refuse to believe in Jesus Christ, not necessarily by explicitly rejecting Him, but by saying "not just now" or "not tonight." He emphasizes that it is our responsibility to cooperate with the conviction of the Holy Spirit and avail ourselves of God's provision for salvation. The preacher also references the importance of being born again, using the analogy of the wind blowing where it pleases to explain the spiritual rebirth.
I Can't!
By Ernest O'Neill63516:08MAT 6:33ROM 8:8REV 13:8In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes that God had foreseen how humanity would become enslaved to people and things before He created us. He explains that our old perverted personalities, which bind us to others and make us slaves, were destroyed in Jesus. This event occurred around 1900 years ago in Jerusalem, but it was foreseen by God before the creation of the world. The speaker highlights that God allowed us to live in a world dominated by Satan as a clear choice between the lie of self-gratification and the truth of following God.
A Sure Leading
By Doc Greenway3801:14:02Christian LifeMAT 6:33ACT 13:2ACT 15:4ROM 8:8ROM 12:12CO 13:141PE 1:12In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of prayer in helping others understand the preaching of the word of God. The speaker shares that when they tried to explain the word of God, people couldn't fully comprehend it, but when they bombarded them with prayer, something amazing happened. The speaker also discusses the need for partnership with the Holy Spirit and the sense of deliverance and freedom that comes from it. They highlight the importance of obedience to the leading of the Spirit and the responsibility we have in keeping our vows to God.
The Spirit of Praise and Holiness
By Zac Poonen0Praise and HolinessSpiritual Warfare2CH 20:12PSA 23:1PSA 106:12JHN 19:11ROM 8:8HEB 2:12JAS 1:5REV 19:10Zac Poonen emphasizes the power of prayer and praise in spiritual warfare, using King Jehoshaphat's example from 2 Chronicles 20. When faced with overwhelming enemies, Jehoshaphat led Judah in fasting and prayer, acknowledging their weakness and placing their trust in God. His declaration, 'Our eyes are on Thee,' exemplifies the faith needed to invite God's intervention, which resulted in victory through praise. Poonen warns against the extremes of emotional praise without holiness and serious living without joy, urging believers to embody both praise and holiness as they follow Christ. Ultimately, he encourages a faith-filled praise that acknowledges God's sovereignty, even amidst trials.
A New Creature
By David Wilkerson0Victory Over SinIdentity in ChristISA 43:25JHN 3:16ROM 6:6ROM 8:82CO 5:17GAL 2:20EPH 2:8PHP 1:62TI 1:71JN 1:9David Wilkerson emphasizes that being in Christ means we are new creatures, despite the struggles we face with sin and habits. He reassures believers that the battle between the flesh and the Spirit is common, and that God’s love remains unwavering regardless of our struggles. Wilkerson highlights that our victory is not based on our actions but solely on the cross and our faith in God. He encourages believers to trust in their identity in Christ, reminding them that God sees them through the lens of Jesus, free from guilt and condemnation. Ultimately, he calls for a firm stand in the grace provided by God, assuring that victory is attainable.
Praising the Lord in Holy Attire
By Zac Poonen0PraiseHolinessPSA 30:12PSA 34:1PSA 100:4PSA 150:6ROM 8:8EPH 5:19COL 3:161TH 5:16HEB 2:12REV 19:10Zac Poonen emphasizes the importance of praising the Lord in holy attire, highlighting that true praise, combined with holiness, drives away the enemy. He points out the extremes in the church: some believers praise loudly without living holy lives, while others live righteously but lack a spirit of praise. Poonen reminds us that Jesus exemplified both proclaiming the Father's name and singing His praises, and encourages believers to follow His example in worship. He warns against preaching for personal recognition and stresses that genuine praise is essential, as demonstrated by the one leper who returned to thank Jesus after healing. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a balance of holiness and joyful praise in the life of the church.
Religion in the Flesh
By Andrew Murray0Self-DenialSpiritual LeadershipJHN 4:24ROM 8:8ROM 12:12CO 5:17GAL 3:3GAL 5:16EPH 2:8PHP 3:3JAS 4:101PE 5:6Andrew Murray emphasizes the dangers of relying on 'religion in the flesh,' warning against the pride and selfishness that can arise from self-righteousness, as exemplified by the Pharisees. He highlights the Galatians' struggle with trying to perfect their faith through fleshly works rather than through the Spirit, cautioning that such an approach leads to bondage and conflict among believers. Murray asserts that true worship and obedience can only occur when the Spirit leads, and that self-denial must begin in our relationship with God before it can manifest in our interactions with others.
Experimental Salvation
By A.W. Pink0Sovereign GraceTrue SalvationISA 53:3JON 2:9MAT 13:20JHN 15:5ROM 5:6ROM 8:8EPH 2:8A.W. Pink emphasizes that true salvation is entirely the work of the Lord, planned by the Father, purchased by the Son, and applied by the Holy Spirit. He warns that many in Christendom may believe they are saved while lacking a genuine experience of divine grace in their hearts. Pink distinguishes between intellectual belief and a heartfelt relationship with Christ, stressing that true faith and repentance are gifts from God, not mere human efforts. He highlights the necessity of God's sovereign grace in effecting salvation, as humans are incapable of achieving it on their own. Ultimately, Pink calls for self-examination to ensure one's faith is rooted in a true, transformative experience of God's grace.
Pleasing God
By James Smith0PSA 147:11PRO 16:7ROM 8:82CO 5:9EPH 5:10PHP 2:13COL 1:101TH 4:1HEB 10:22HEB 13:16James Smith preaches on the concept of pleasing God, emphasizing that while sinners cannot please God, believers in Christ who have received His grace and salvation can indeed bring delight to God by living a sanctified life and seeking to honor Him in all they do. The sermon highlights that God takes pleasure in the prayers, praises, and consistent walking of His people, as well as in their obedience to His commands and participation in sacraments like baptism and the Lord's Supper. Pleasing God should be the ultimate aim of every Christian, as it leads to personal satisfaction and harmony within the body of Christ.
The Way to Please God
By James Smith0PRO 16:7ROM 8:81CO 7:322CO 5:9PHP 2:13COL 1:101TH 4:1HEB 11:6HEB 13:161JN 3:22James Smith preaches on the importance of living a life that pleases the Lord, emphasizing the need to detach from worldly desires and focus on seeking to please God above all else. He highlights key principles such as having right views of God, being reconciled to Him through Christ, exercising filial confidence, keeping our eyes on Him, and cheerfully acquiescing to His will. Smith also stresses the significance of honoring Jesus, striving against sin, being zealous for God's cause, avoiding what displeases Him, and aiming at His glory in all aspects of life.
Matthew 6:24 to End. Christ Forbids Worldly Anxiety.
By Favell Lee Mortimer0MAT 6:25MAT 6:33ROM 8:5ROM 8:8Favell Lee Mortimer preaches on the command of Jesus to not be anxious about earthly needs, emphasizing God's power and kindness in providing for His children. He warns against being engrossed with earthly thoughts, as it indicates being in the flesh and not born again of the Spirit, which displeases God. Mortimer highlights the importance of seeking first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, promising that all necessary things will be added. He encourages focusing on spiritual blessings rather than dwelling on the troubles of life, as it leads to a happier and safer life.
What Think Ye of Christ?
By John A. Witmer0MAT 6:24LUK 16:9ROM 8:5ROM 8:8The preacher discusses the concept of wealth (mammon) as a personification of riches or earthly goods, warning against being possessed by possessions and the dangers of serving both God and wealth. Various Bible verses and theologians emphasize the shift of mammon from entrusted wealth to a god-like entity, highlighting the need to prioritize serving God over material possessions. The sermon stresses the importance of seeking the kingdom of God and His righteousness above all else, trusting in God's provision while avoiding worldly anxieties and distractions.
The Covenant of Grace
By Watchman Nee0Faith and Trust in GodCovenant of GraceGEN 17:1ROM 4:19ROM 8:8PHP 3:3COL 2:11Watchman Nee emphasizes the significance of God's covenant of grace with Abraham, illustrating how God's silence during Abraham's self-reliance led to a deeper understanding of faith. He explains that true progress begins with God's call, not our efforts, and that the covenant, marked by circumcision, signifies a complete reliance on God rather than on the flesh. As Abraham's faith matured, he learned to trust in God's promises despite his own limitations, ultimately becoming a friend of God. The sermon highlights the importance of recognizing our helplessness and the necessity of grace in our relationship with God.
The Meaning and Value of Romans Seven
By Watchman Nee0Dependence on ChristDeliverance from the LawMAT 5:17JHN 19:30ROM 6:14ROM 7:5ROM 7:14ROM 7:18ROM 7:24ROM 8:8GAL 3:24PHP 2:12Watchman Nee explores the significance of Romans 7, emphasizing that while Romans 6 teaches freedom from sin, Romans 7 reveals the necessity of being liberated from the Law. He explains that many Christians struggle with sin because they attempt to fulfill God's demands through their own efforts, leading to frustration and failure. The chapter illustrates that true deliverance comes not from trying harder but from recognizing our utter weakness and relying on Christ's power. Ultimately, Nee highlights that through Christ's death and resurrection, believers are freed from the Law's demands and empowered to live a fruitful life in God.
The New Covenant Part I (The Sign of Circumcision)
By Robert Wurtz II0DEU 30:6ROM 4:9ROM 8:8GAL 3:16PHP 3:3Robert Wurtz II preaches on Abrahamic Faith, emphasizing the importance of transferring our confidence and trust from our fallen human nature to God, just as Abraham did. This faith involves worshiping God in the Spirit, rejoicing in Christ Jesus, and having no faith in the flesh, understanding that righteousness is imputed to us through genuine repentance and faith in the promised Seed, Jesus Christ.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
So then - Because this carnal mind is enmity against God, they that are in the flesh - who are under the power of the workings of this carnal mind, (which every soul is that has not received redemption in the blood of the Lamb), - Cannot please God - Because of the rebellious workings of this principle of rebellion and hatred. And, if they cannot please God, they must be displeasing to him; and consequently in the broad road to final perdition.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
So then--nearly equivalent to "And so." they that are in--and, therefore, under the government of the flesh cannot please God--having no obediential principle, no desire to please Him.
John Gill Bible Commentary
So then they that are in the flesh,.... They that are in the flesh are the same who are said to be after it, Rom 8:5, and are there described. Such cannot please God; men, whilst unregenerate, and as such, cannot please God; for though the persons of God's elect are wellpleasing to him always, as considered in Christ, in whom they are loved with an everlasting love, and were chosen in him, and all provisions grace and glory made for them in him; yet as considered in themselves, and whilst in the flesh, do not please him; for they are straying from him, are alienated from his life, are destitute of all grace, and particularly faith, without which it is impossible to please him; are filthy and unclean, and hence, whilst such have no enjoyment of him, or communion with him; wherefore he sends his Spirit to work in them that which is wellpleasing in his sight: but this is not to be understood so much of persons, and their non-acceptableness to God, as of the inability of unregenerate men to obtain the good will of God, or make their peace with him; which they have no inclination to, being enmity against him; and were they inclined to it, know not how to go about it; nor can they draw nigh to God to treat with him about terms of peace; nor can they do that which can procure peace; Christ is the only person that can, make peace, and has done it: or rather, of the impotency of natural men to do anything which pleasing in the sight of God. There are many things which are pleasing to him, such as prayer, praise, giving of alms, keeping his commandments, and walking in his ways; but these unregenerate men cannot do in any acceptable manner to God; for they are without the Spirit, without Christ, without faith; and in all they do have no view to the glory of God: they have neither grace, nor strength, nor right principles, nor right ends.