Romans 9:23
Verse
Context
God’s Sovereign Choice
22What if God, intending to show His wrath and make His power known, bore with great patience the vessels of His wrath, prepared for destruction?23What if He did this to make the riches of His glory known to the vessels of His mercy, whom He prepared in advance for glory—24including us, whom He has called not only from the Jews, but also from the Gentiles?
Sermons
Stephen Kaung
T. Austin-SparksT. Austin-Sparks
Horatius Bonar
Raymond Golsworthy
Miles J. StanfordSummary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
And that he might make known - God endured with much long-suffering the vessels of wrath: 1. To show his wrath, and to make his power known. And also, 2. That he might make known the riches of his glory on the vessels of mercy. Which he had afore prepared unto glory - The Jews were fitted for destruction long before; but the fittest time to destroy them was after he had prepared the believing Gentiles unto glory. For the rod of the Messiah's strength was to be sent out of Zion, Psa 110:2. The Jewish nation was to supply the first preachers of the Gospel, and from Jerusalem their sound was to go forth into all the earth. Therefore the Jewish state, notwithstanding its corruptions, was to be preserved till the Messiah came, and even till the Gospel preached by the apostles had taken deep root in the Gentile world. Another thing which rendered the time when the Jewish polity was overthrown the most proper, was this, because then the immediate occasion of it was the extensiveness of the Divine grace. They would not have the Gentiles admitted into the Church of God; but contradicted, and blasphemed, and rejected the Lord that bought them: thus, then, the extensiveness of the Divine grace occasioned their infidelity, Rom 9:33; Rom 10:3; Rom 11:11, Rom 11:12, Rom 11:15, Rom 11:28, Rom 11:30. Thus the Jews were diminished by that abundance of grace which has enriched the Gentiles. And so the grace of God was illustrated; or, so God made known the riches of his glory on the vessels of mercy - the apostles and primitive believers among the Jews, and the Gentile world, which received the Gospel by the preaching of the apostles and their successors.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
And that he might make known the riches of his glory on the vessels of mercy--that "glorious exuberance of Divine mercy" which "was manifested in choosing and eternally arranging for the salvation of sinners."
John Gill Bible Commentary
Even us whom he hath called,.... From election the apostle proceeds to calling, the fruit and evidence of it, taking the same method he did in Rom 8:30, with a view to treat of the call of the Gentiles, of which he afterwards gives proof from prophecy; whence it appears to be according to divine predestination, upon which prophecy is founded; for God foretells that such a thing will be, because he has foreordained it shall be. These words are explanative of the former, and show who the vessels of mercy are; they are such whom God calls by his grace. Election may be known by calling, as the cause by its effect, and that without an extraordinary revelation. This may as well be known, as man's adoption, justification, and the forgiveness of his sins; for as all the chosen are, and shall be called in time, so all that are truly called by the grace of God, are manifestly, and to a demonstration, the chosen vessels of salvation: if a man is satisfied of his calling, he ought to be equally so of his election, the one being demonstrable by the other; and for such an one to doubt of it, is his sin and crime. Moreover, the above phrase, "afore prepared for glory", is here further explained; to be afore prepared for glory, is no other than to be called, sanctified, and justified, in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God; for this is the saints' preparation for glory, before they come to it; and hereby the means are expressed, even sanctification of the Spirit, and belief of the truth, through which God appoints his people unto salvation: now this calling is to be understood, not of a call to any office, as of Aaron to the priesthood, of Saul to the kingdom, of the disciples of Christ to apostleship, or of ministers to the work of the ministry; for persons may be called to the highest office in church and state, as Judas to: apostleship, and Pharaoh to the throne of Egypt, and yet have no share in electing grace: nor of a call by the external ministry of the word, which is often slighted, despised, and of none effect; in this sense many are called, who are not chosen: but of a call that is by the powerful, efficacious, and irresistible grace of God; a call that is internal, that reaches the heart, and not the ear only: a special one that is peculiar to God's elect, is by special grace, and is to special blessings, as both grace and glory; it is an high, heavenly, and holy calling, and is without repentance; between which and glorification, as between it and eternal election, there is a close and an inseparable connection. The objects of this grace follow, not of the Jews only, but also of the Gentiles; not all the Jews, nor all the Gentiles, but some of each; as all are not chosen, all are not redeemed, only some out of every kindred, tongue, nation, and people; so not all, but some only are called by grace: and this is not peculiar to the Jews, it reaches to the Gentiles also; and under the present dispensation, to the far greater number of them.
Romans 9:23
God’s Sovereign Choice
22What if God, intending to show His wrath and make His power known, bore with great patience the vessels of His wrath, prepared for destruction?23What if He did this to make the riches of His glory known to the vessels of His mercy, whom He prepared in advance for glory—24including us, whom He has called not only from the Jews, but also from the Gentiles?
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
The King and the Kingdom
By Stephen Kaung2.0K1:02:12Kingdom Of GodNUM 23:19ISA 9:6MAT 16:18MAT 24:14LUK 2:7LUK 3:3ROM 9:23In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of understanding the nature of the kingdom of God by knowing the character of the king. The character of the king is demonstrated through the beatitudes, showing his humility, meekness, thirst for righteousness, mercy, purity, and peacemaking. The speaker also highlights the significance of the cross as a demonstration of the character of the kingdom. The sermon references Matthew 24:14, where it is stated that the gospel of the kingdom will be preached throughout the world before the end comes.
Unsearchable Riches of Christ - Part 6
By T. Austin-Sparks1.5K45:29Riches Of ChristACT 7:55ACT 16:23ACT 20:23ACT 28:31ROM 9:23EPH 1:18EPH 3:16In this sermon, the preacher discusses the story of Peter's imprisonment and miraculous escape as an example of how God's glory is revealed in times of tribulation and suffering. The preacher emphasizes that when human resources and efforts fail, God's glory shines through. He references the story of the wedding at Cana in Galilee, where Jesus performed his first miracle, as another example of God's glory being revealed in hopeless situations. The preacher encourages the audience to trust in God's grace and reminds them that even in apparent defeat, the end of the story will be glory.
God's Great Name, the Ground and Reason of Saving Great Sinners
By Ralph Erskine0God's GlorySalvation of SinnersPSA 79:9PSA 106:8PSA 115:1ISA 43:25ISA 48:11JER 14:7ACT 4:12ROM 9:23EPH 1:6PHP 2:10Ralph Erskine emphasizes that God's salvation of sinners is fundamentally for His own name's sake, rather than for any merit on the part of the sinners themselves. He explains that the glory of God's name is paramount in the act of salvation, as it showcases His mercy, justice, and power, even in the face of human sinfulness. Erskine illustrates this through the historical example of Israel's deliverance from Egypt, highlighting that God's grace is extended to the most grievous sinners, demonstrating His willingness to save despite their unworthiness. The sermon calls believers to recognize their dependence on God's grace and to glorify His name in their lives. Ultimately, Erskine reassures that God's saving work is rooted in His desire to magnify His name and attributes.
The Many-Sided Riches of God's Grace in Jesus Christ
By T. Austin-Sparks0RedemptionGod's GraceROM 2:4ROM 9:23ROM 11:33EPH 1:7EPH 2:7EPH 3:8EPH 3:16HEB 12:221PE 2:1REV 21:19T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the many-sided riches of God's grace as depicted in Revelation 21:19, where the foundations of the city are adorned with precious stones. He illustrates how God's grace transforms flawed individuals, like Jacob and the twelve apostles, into vessels of mercy, showcasing the unsearchable riches of Christ. The sermon highlights that the grace of God is sufficient for all, regardless of past failures, and serves as a reminder of the hope and redemption available through Jesus. Sparks encourages believers to appreciate the depth of God's grace and its manifestation in their lives.
The Glory to Come
By Horatius Bonar0Hope in SufferingTransformationROM 8:18ROM 9:232CO 4:17COL 3:41TH 2:12HEB 2:101PE 1:81PE 4:131PE 5:10REV 21:11Horatius Bonar emphasizes that a person's true life and history begin at conversion, marking the transition from a life without a story to one filled with divine significance. He illustrates this transformation using the metaphor of a drop of water separating from the ocean, gaining individuality and a unique narrative that is recorded in heaven. Bonar reassures believers that while their earthly journey may be filled with suffering, it ultimately leads to a glorious future, where they will share in the glory of God. He encourages the faithful to look beyond their present trials, reminding them that their hope lies in the eternal glory that awaits them, which far surpasses any earthly affliction. The sermon concludes with a call to rejoice in the promise of glory, which is both a present reality and a future inheritance.
The Shining Testimony
By Raymond Golsworthy0PSA 106:8ISA 28:5ISA 60:1ISA 66:1DAN 12:3MAT 13:43LUK 22:29JHN 17:10ROM 9:23ROM 11:36EPH 2:1REV 21:10Raymond Golsworthy preaches on Isaiah 60, where God calls His people to 'Arise and shine' as His light and glory rise upon them. The chapter reveals God's plans for the resurrection and restoration of His people, leading to a shining testimony of His power and glory. Through five significant names given to the favored city, the sermon emphasizes God's desire for His Church to be the vessel of His glory, the place of His sanctuary, the place of His feet, an eternal excellency, and the branch of His planting, all pointing to the deep relationship between God and His redeemed people.
Undivided Attention
By Miles J. Stanford0DEU 8:11ROM 9:23PHP 3:3Miles J. Stanford preaches about the importance of not forgetting the Lord our God, emphasizing that as recipients of His favor, we must be vigilant not to turn our focus from God to ourselves. He warns that even in times of blessings, we must guard against self-centeredness and instead keep our eyes fixed on God as the source of all blessings. Stanford highlights the need for believers to consciously reject anything that may revive the old sinful nature and to continually grow in the likeness of Christ, ensuring that God remains the center and source of everything in their lives.
The Lord Can Work by Whom He Will.
By Anne Dutton0ROM 9:231CO 1:272CO 12:9EPH 2:10PHP 2:13Anne Dutton preaches about God's extraordinary grace in using the unworthy and vile to display His power and glory, emphasizing that our weaknesses and imperfections only serve to magnify His greatness. She highlights how God chooses the most unfit and transforms them into vessels of honor, showcasing His love, patience, and skill as the Master Craftsman. Dutton encourages humility and self-loathing in light of God's mercy and grace, reminding believers that all good comes from Him and all evil is cast into the depths of His forgiveness through the sacrifice of Jesus.
Oh, Why Me, the Chief of Sinners
By Anne Dutton0PSA 111:2ROM 9:231CO 15:57EPH 1:7REV 22:20Anne Dutton preaches about the infinite grace of God and the joy of experiencing His wisdom and prudence in salvation, leading to eternal adoration of His glory. She acknowledges the reward of serving the Lord and the impact of her work in bringing others to faith and joy. Anne Dutton expresses gratitude for being chosen by God for His service, attributing it to His rich, free, sovereign love and grace, and calls for praise and exaltation of His victorious grace. She encourages a focus on loving the slain Lamb, mourning the dishonor done to Him, and eagerly anticipating His exaltation and universal reign in glory.
Only Those Prepared Here
By Thomas Shepard02CH 12:14PSA 10:17MAL 1:14LUK 1:17ROM 9:231CO 15:502CO 5:8PHP 3:20HEB 12:14REV 21:27Thomas Shepard preaches about the importance of being ready and prepared in this life for Christ to enjoy eternal communion with Him. He emphasizes that men are naturally unfit for heaven and must be prepared by God's grace to partake in fellowship with Christ. The honor of the Lord Jesus is highlighted, as believers owe it to Him to be in readiness for His return. The sermon concludes with a call to self-reflection and repentance for those who are unready, emphasizing the urgency of being prepared to meet the Lord.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
And that he might make known - God endured with much long-suffering the vessels of wrath: 1. To show his wrath, and to make his power known. And also, 2. That he might make known the riches of his glory on the vessels of mercy. Which he had afore prepared unto glory - The Jews were fitted for destruction long before; but the fittest time to destroy them was after he had prepared the believing Gentiles unto glory. For the rod of the Messiah's strength was to be sent out of Zion, Psa 110:2. The Jewish nation was to supply the first preachers of the Gospel, and from Jerusalem their sound was to go forth into all the earth. Therefore the Jewish state, notwithstanding its corruptions, was to be preserved till the Messiah came, and even till the Gospel preached by the apostles had taken deep root in the Gentile world. Another thing which rendered the time when the Jewish polity was overthrown the most proper, was this, because then the immediate occasion of it was the extensiveness of the Divine grace. They would not have the Gentiles admitted into the Church of God; but contradicted, and blasphemed, and rejected the Lord that bought them: thus, then, the extensiveness of the Divine grace occasioned their infidelity, Rom 9:33; Rom 10:3; Rom 11:11, Rom 11:12, Rom 11:15, Rom 11:28, Rom 11:30. Thus the Jews were diminished by that abundance of grace which has enriched the Gentiles. And so the grace of God was illustrated; or, so God made known the riches of his glory on the vessels of mercy - the apostles and primitive believers among the Jews, and the Gentile world, which received the Gospel by the preaching of the apostles and their successors.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
And that he might make known the riches of his glory on the vessels of mercy--that "glorious exuberance of Divine mercy" which "was manifested in choosing and eternally arranging for the salvation of sinners."
John Gill Bible Commentary
Even us whom he hath called,.... From election the apostle proceeds to calling, the fruit and evidence of it, taking the same method he did in Rom 8:30, with a view to treat of the call of the Gentiles, of which he afterwards gives proof from prophecy; whence it appears to be according to divine predestination, upon which prophecy is founded; for God foretells that such a thing will be, because he has foreordained it shall be. These words are explanative of the former, and show who the vessels of mercy are; they are such whom God calls by his grace. Election may be known by calling, as the cause by its effect, and that without an extraordinary revelation. This may as well be known, as man's adoption, justification, and the forgiveness of his sins; for as all the chosen are, and shall be called in time, so all that are truly called by the grace of God, are manifestly, and to a demonstration, the chosen vessels of salvation: if a man is satisfied of his calling, he ought to be equally so of his election, the one being demonstrable by the other; and for such an one to doubt of it, is his sin and crime. Moreover, the above phrase, "afore prepared for glory", is here further explained; to be afore prepared for glory, is no other than to be called, sanctified, and justified, in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God; for this is the saints' preparation for glory, before they come to it; and hereby the means are expressed, even sanctification of the Spirit, and belief of the truth, through which God appoints his people unto salvation: now this calling is to be understood, not of a call to any office, as of Aaron to the priesthood, of Saul to the kingdom, of the disciples of Christ to apostleship, or of ministers to the work of the ministry; for persons may be called to the highest office in church and state, as Judas to: apostleship, and Pharaoh to the throne of Egypt, and yet have no share in electing grace: nor of a call by the external ministry of the word, which is often slighted, despised, and of none effect; in this sense many are called, who are not chosen: but of a call that is by the powerful, efficacious, and irresistible grace of God; a call that is internal, that reaches the heart, and not the ear only: a special one that is peculiar to God's elect, is by special grace, and is to special blessings, as both grace and glory; it is an high, heavenly, and holy calling, and is without repentance; between which and glorification, as between it and eternal election, there is a close and an inseparable connection. The objects of this grace follow, not of the Jews only, but also of the Gentiles; not all the Jews, nor all the Gentiles, but some of each; as all are not chosen, all are not redeemed, only some out of every kindred, tongue, nation, and people; so not all, but some only are called by grace: and this is not peculiar to the Jews, it reaches to the Gentiles also; and under the present dispensation, to the far greater number of them.