Romans 9:1
Verse
Context
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
I say the truth in Christ, I lie not - This is one of the most solemn oaths any man can possibly take. He appeals to Christ as the searcher of hearts that he tells the truth; asserts that his conscience was free from all guile in this matter, and that the Holy Ghost bore him testimony that what he said was true. Hence we find that the testimony of a man's own conscience, and the testimony of the Holy Ghost, are two distinct things, and that the apostle had both at the same time. As the apostle had still remaining a very awful part of his commission to execute, namely, to declare to the Jews not only that God had chosen the Gentiles, but had rejected them because they had rejected Christ and his Gospel, it was necessary that he should assure them that however he had been persecuted by them because he had embraced the Gospel, yet it was so far from being a gratification to him that they had now fallen under the displeasure of God, that it was a subject of continual distress to his mind, and that it produced in him great heaviness and continual sorrow.
John Gill Bible Commentary
I say the truth in Christ, I lie not,.... The apostle being about to discourse concerning predestination, which he had mentioned in the preceding chapter, and to open the springs and causes of it, and also concerning the induration and rejection of the Jewish nation; he thought it necessary to preface his account of these things with some strong assurances of his great attachment to that people, and his affection for them, lest it should be thought he spoke out of prejudice to them; and well knowing in what situation he stood in with them, on account of his preaching up the abrogation of the ceremonial law, and how difficult it might be for him to obtain their belief in what he should say, he introduces it with a solemn oath, "I say the truth in Christ, I lie not": which refers not to what he had said in the foregoing chapter, but to what he was going to say; and is all one as if he had said, as I am in Christ, a converted person, one born again, and renewed in the spirit of my mind, what I am about to speak is truth, and no lie; or I swear by Christ the God of truth, who is truth itself, and I appeal to him as the true God, the searcher of hearts, that what I now deliver is truth, and nothing but truth, and has no falsehood in it. This both shows that the taking of an oath is lawful, and that Christ is truly God, by whom only persons ought to swear: my conscience bearing me witness. The apostle, besides his appeal to Christ, calls his conscience to witness to the truth of his words; and this is as a thousand witnesses; there is in every man a conscience, which unless seared as with a red hot iron, will accuse or excuse, and bear a faithful testimony to words and actions; and especially a conscience enlightened, cleansed, and sanctified by the Spirit of God, as was the apostle's: hence he adds, in the Holy Ghost; meaning either that his conscience was influenced and directed by the Holy Ghost in what he was about to say; or it bore witness in and with the Holy Ghost, and the Holy Ghost with that; so that here are three witnesses called in, Christ, conscience, and the Holy Ghost; and by three such witnesses, his words must be thought to be well established.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
9:1–11:36 In this section, Paul takes up the problem raised by the unbelief of so many Jews. If God had promised salvation to Israel yet so few Jews were being saved, how could Jesus truly be the fulfillment of God’s plan (9:1-5)? In his response to this objection, Paul cites the Old Testament as evidence that God had always intended to save only a remnant of Israel (9:6-29), and he faults the Jews for refusing to embrace Christ (9:30–10:21). Paul then shows that God has not discarded Israel from his plan of salvation. Many Jews have already believed in Christ (11:1-10), and many more will believe in the future (11:12-26).
Romans 9:1
Paul’s Concern for the Jews
1I speak the truth in Christ; I am not lying, as confirmed by my conscience in the Holy Spirit.2I have deep sorrow and unceasing anguish in my heart.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
To Live Is Christ, to Die Is Gain
By Leonard Ravenhill4.4K1:07:21MartyrdomMAT 6:33ROM 9:12CO 5:1In this sermon, the preacher talks about the unpredictability of the Holy Ghost and the power of the word of God. He mentions a church that typed out a notice for the Holy Ghost to read on Sunday morning, and the choir's attempt to sing despite challenges. The preacher emphasizes the need to not be moved by troubles and trials, referencing 2 Corinthians 6. He challenges the audience to declare themselves as living sacrifices and to magnify Christ in their bodies. The preacher also mentions the story of Madam Guillen, who endured great suffering for preaching the gospel.
A Baptism of Tears for Israel
By Michael L. Brown2.2K36:43IsraelPSA 34:12MAT 5:4MAT 6:33MAT 23:37ROM 9:1ROM 9:4HEB 5:7In this sermon, the speaker addresses the state of the American body, particularly those who consider themselves charismatic or spirit-filled believers. He criticizes the tendency for believers to rely on formulas and a push-button approach to their faith, seeking instant results. The speaker emphasizes the importance of spiritual hunger and the need to go beyond simply asking God to move, but also speaking forth commands and decrees in alignment with Scripture. He shares stories of Jewish tradition and the dedication of Rabbi Akiva and his disciples, highlighting the power of sanctifying the name of the Lord and the consequences of slander.
Kingdom of Priests (Compilation)
By Compilations2.0K12:42CompilationACT 2:40ROM 9:1In this sermon, the preacher begins by recounting the story of Elijah and his prayer to God during the offering of the evening sacrifice. Elijah calls upon God to reveal Himself as the true God and to turn the hearts of the people back to Him. God answers Elijah's prayer by sending fire from heaven to consume the sacrifice, wood, stones, and even the water in the trench. The preacher then goes on to exhort the listeners to save themselves from the corrupt generation and emphasizes the importance of speaking the truth in Christ. He expresses his deep sorrow and anguish for his fellow Israelites and their rejection of Christ. The preacher also highlights the blessings and promises of God, including adoption as sons, divine glory, covenants, the law, temple worship, and the lineage of Christ. He reminds the audience that God desires to nourish and care for them and that He does not take away life but provides a way for reconciliation. The preacher emphasizes the significance of burying the body of someone who has been put to death, as hanging on a tree is considered a curse from God. He explains that if someone sins against another person, God will judge them, but if someone sins against the Lord, there is no one to intercede for them. The preacher then quotes Jesus' invitation to all who are burdened and weary to come to Him for rest. He describes the miraculous event of the Holy Spirit descending upon the disciples, filling them with power and enabling them to speak in different languages. The preacher concludes by proclaiming that Jesus, whom the people crucified, is both Lord and Christ. This declaration deeply impacts the listeners, leading them to ask Peter and the apostles what they should do. Peter responds by urging them to repent and be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of sins and the receiving of the Holy Spirit. He assures them that the promise of salvation is for them, their children, and all who will respond to God's call.
Extreme Prayer (High Quality)
By David Smithers1.9K47:17ROM 9:1In this sermon, the speaker discusses the extreme examples of devotion and prayer found in the life of David Brainerd, a missionary to the American Indians. The speaker emphasizes that these examples should not be seen as condemning, but rather as inspiring and encouraging. He highlights the importance of fully appropriating the grace of Jesus Christ and deepening our devotion to Him. The speaker also addresses the misconception that costly and sacrificial devotion is necessary to earn God's love, clarifying that it should be a natural response to receiving God's love.
The Word of God
By Norman Meeten1.4K1:04:42Word Of GodROM 9:1In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of not seeking instant gratification in our spiritual lives. He explains that simply pressing buttons and relying on technology will not make someone a true preacher. Instead, he encourages listeners to seek God and allow Him to saturate their beings with His gospel and truth. The speaker also shares a testimony of a missionary who was deeply impacted by God's power and wrote something in his heart. Despite linguistic and cultural barriers, the speaker believes that the message of the gospel can transcend and be understood by people from different backgrounds. The sermon concludes with a call to continue preaching the gospel, even in the face of opposition and persecution, and to be faithful stewards of the message entrusted to us by God.
Extreme Prayer - Part 2
By David Smithers1.1K22:30ROM 9:1In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the extreme devotion and sacrifice of individuals like David Brainerd and Joseph Elini in their prayer lives. These men would wake up early, spend hours in prayer, and were deeply troubled if they heard others working before they had finished their devotions. The speaker challenges the audience to consider how much they are appropriating the grace of God in their own lives and encourages them to strive for greater sacrifice, devotion, and prayer for the lost and the church. The speaker also highlights the need to approach the Bible with a thirst and hunger for God, rather than treating it as mere words or an escape.
Paul, a Pattern of Conversion and Service
By Rolfe Barnard90450:49Apostle PaulMAT 16:24ACT 9:3ROM 9:1In this sermon, the preacher shares a personal experience of a powerful encounter with God during a sermon. A young Roman Catholic girl in the congregation began sobbing and crying out that Jesus is present. The preacher emphasizes the need for Christians to take their faith seriously and not play around, using the example of Paul as a human pattern to follow. He also highlights the sovereignty of God in saving individuals and the importance of having a burden for souls. The sermon concludes with the preacher expressing his concern for the lack of revival and burden for souls among God's people.
Hold the Church to Love
By Bill McLeod81850:28LovePSA 24:4MAT 6:33JHN 17:26ROM 9:11PE 1:22In this sermon, the speaker shares a story about a man who encountered a couple in need of help. The man quickly offered assistance and showed genuine care for their situation. The speaker emphasizes the importance of showing love and compassion to others, especially within the church community. He also highlights the significance of believing in the power of God and standing on His promises. The sermon encourages listeners to have a genuine faith and trust in God's ability to work in their lives.
On Conscience
By John Wesley0Moral GuidanceConscienceJOB 16:19PSA 139:23MIC 6:8MAT 5:8ACT 24:16ROM 9:12CO 1:121TI 1:5HEB 10:221JN 2:20John Wesley's sermon 'On Conscience' emphasizes the critical role of conscience in guiding moral behavior and understanding right from wrong. He explains that conscience is a divine gift that allows individuals to discern their actions in relation to God's will, serving as both a witness and a judge. Wesley categorizes different types of conscience, including good, tender, scrupulous, and hardened, and stresses the importance of obeying one's conscience to maintain its sensitivity. He concludes with practical directions for nurturing a good conscience, urging believers to live in constant awareness of God's presence and to align their actions with His word.
The Holy Spirit and Conscience
By Andrew Murray0ConscienceThe Holy SpiritROM 8:16ROM 9:12CO 1:12COL 1:101TI 1:51TI 1:19TIT 1:15HEB 9:14HEB 12:281JN 3:21Andrew Murray emphasizes the vital role of conscience in the believer's life, asserting that it serves as a reflection of God's holiness and a guide towards righteousness. He explains that the Holy Spirit works in harmony with our conscience, leading us to recognize sin and embrace God's grace through Christ's blood. The cleansing of the conscience is essential for spiritual growth and maintaining a close relationship with God, as it allows believers to walk in the light of His favor. Murray encourages believers to yield to their conscience, ensuring it remains pure and responsive to God's will, which in turn strengthens their faith and assurance of salvation. Ultimately, he calls for a life characterized by a clear conscience, testifying to the transformative work of the Holy Spirit.
The Holy Spirit in the Epistle to the Romans
By Arno Clemens Gaebelein0ROM 5:5ROM 8:2ROM 8:5ROM 8:9ROM 8:11ROM 8:14ROM 8:23ROM 8:26ROM 9:1Arno Clemens Gaebelein preaches on the salvation of God going forth to the Gentiles as revealed in the Book of Acts and the epistle to the Romans. Romans emphasizes the need for salvation for both Jews and Gentiles, the sacrificial work of Jesus Christ, and the believer's justification by faith leading to peace with God. The Holy Spirit's role in salvation is highlighted, showing that while essential, the Spirit does not save but points to Christ. The believer's identification with Christ, sanctification, and future redemption are all made possible through the indwelling Spirit.
Are You Successful?
By Ernest O'Neill0ROM 9:11CO 6:19GAL 2:20COL 3:16HEB 10:22Ernest O'Neill preaches about the true essence of success and fulfillment, emphasizing that our worth is not defined by worldly achievements but by allowing the Son of God to live within us. He highlights the importance of listening to our conscience, which is God's implanted guide for our lives, and encourages active responses to the directions given through our conscience rather than passive contemplation. O'Neill explains that as we align our actions and behaviors with Christ in our conscience, we experience clarity, satisfaction, and a deep oneness with reality, allowing Christ to be Himself in us.
St. Paul's Love to His Enemies Perfect in Kind.
By Daniel Steele0DEU 30:6MAT 5:43ROM 9:11CO 9:222CO 12:15EPH 5:25PHP 1:8COL 1:241TH 2:71TI 2:1Daniel Steele preaches on the concept of Christian perfection, emphasizing that love for one's enemies is the essence and evidence of Christian perfection, as demonstrated by Paul's sacrificial love towards his foes, even to the point of being willing to give up his own life for them. Paul's love reflects divine love, walking the earth incarnated in human form, and exemplifying perfect love by surrendering his life for others. His universal love extends to enemies, fellow believers, spiritual infants, backsliders, and even strangers, showcasing a selfless and sacrificial love that mirrors Christ's love for the church.
Guidelines for the Understanding of the Scriptues: Introduction
By J. Vernon McGee0ACT 9:30ROM 9:1ROM 16:71CO 1:30GAL 1:16GAL 2:6PHP 1:11TH 1:12TH 1:1John Brown explains that 'prosanatithemi' signifies 'to impose a new burden' or 'to take counsel or advice of a person,' emphasizing the act of consulting with others for guidance. Thayer and Vine elaborate on the meaning of 'prosanatithemi' as 'to consult' or 'to communicate,' highlighting the importance of seeking advice and contributing to others. F.B. Meyer reflects on the significance of God revealing His Son in us, urging believers to surrender their will to God and seek His presence for a deeper understanding of Christ within. Oswald Chambers emphasizes the need to concentrate on God in times of doubt, trusting Him to guide our circumstances and cautioning against becoming contemptuous when others do not share our spiritual enthusiasm.
Compassion for the Lost
By Charles Bridges0DEU 9:181SA 15:11EZR 9:3EZK 9:4LUK 19:41ROM 9:1JAS 5:202PE 2:7Charles Bridges preaches on the compassion of Jesus towards those who do not keep God's law, emphasizing the need for Christians to have a tender concern for the honor of God and a pitying concern for sinners. He highlights biblical examples like Lot, Moses, Samuel, Ezra, and David, who were deeply grieved by the sins of others. Bridges urges ministers to weep and intercede for the rebellious, following the examples of prophets and apostles who expressed great heaviness and sorrow for the lost. He stresses the importance of having a spirit of weeping tenderness and compassion towards those perishing in sin, calling for action and prayer for their conversion.
- Adam Clarke
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
I say the truth in Christ, I lie not - This is one of the most solemn oaths any man can possibly take. He appeals to Christ as the searcher of hearts that he tells the truth; asserts that his conscience was free from all guile in this matter, and that the Holy Ghost bore him testimony that what he said was true. Hence we find that the testimony of a man's own conscience, and the testimony of the Holy Ghost, are two distinct things, and that the apostle had both at the same time. As the apostle had still remaining a very awful part of his commission to execute, namely, to declare to the Jews not only that God had chosen the Gentiles, but had rejected them because they had rejected Christ and his Gospel, it was necessary that he should assure them that however he had been persecuted by them because he had embraced the Gospel, yet it was so far from being a gratification to him that they had now fallen under the displeasure of God, that it was a subject of continual distress to his mind, and that it produced in him great heaviness and continual sorrow.
John Gill Bible Commentary
I say the truth in Christ, I lie not,.... The apostle being about to discourse concerning predestination, which he had mentioned in the preceding chapter, and to open the springs and causes of it, and also concerning the induration and rejection of the Jewish nation; he thought it necessary to preface his account of these things with some strong assurances of his great attachment to that people, and his affection for them, lest it should be thought he spoke out of prejudice to them; and well knowing in what situation he stood in with them, on account of his preaching up the abrogation of the ceremonial law, and how difficult it might be for him to obtain their belief in what he should say, he introduces it with a solemn oath, "I say the truth in Christ, I lie not": which refers not to what he had said in the foregoing chapter, but to what he was going to say; and is all one as if he had said, as I am in Christ, a converted person, one born again, and renewed in the spirit of my mind, what I am about to speak is truth, and no lie; or I swear by Christ the God of truth, who is truth itself, and I appeal to him as the true God, the searcher of hearts, that what I now deliver is truth, and nothing but truth, and has no falsehood in it. This both shows that the taking of an oath is lawful, and that Christ is truly God, by whom only persons ought to swear: my conscience bearing me witness. The apostle, besides his appeal to Christ, calls his conscience to witness to the truth of his words; and this is as a thousand witnesses; there is in every man a conscience, which unless seared as with a red hot iron, will accuse or excuse, and bear a faithful testimony to words and actions; and especially a conscience enlightened, cleansed, and sanctified by the Spirit of God, as was the apostle's: hence he adds, in the Holy Ghost; meaning either that his conscience was influenced and directed by the Holy Ghost in what he was about to say; or it bore witness in and with the Holy Ghost, and the Holy Ghost with that; so that here are three witnesses called in, Christ, conscience, and the Holy Ghost; and by three such witnesses, his words must be thought to be well established.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
9:1–11:36 In this section, Paul takes up the problem raised by the unbelief of so many Jews. If God had promised salvation to Israel yet so few Jews were being saved, how could Jesus truly be the fulfillment of God’s plan (9:1-5)? In his response to this objection, Paul cites the Old Testament as evidence that God had always intended to save only a remnant of Israel (9:6-29), and he faults the Jews for refusing to embrace Christ (9:30–10:21). Paul then shows that God has not discarded Israel from his plan of salvation. Many Jews have already believed in Christ (11:1-10), and many more will believe in the future (11:12-26).