Remarks on Self-Denial
Clement of Rome emphasizes the significance of self-denial in achieving a divine life and the rewards that await in the kingdom of heaven.
Clement of Rome emphasizes the importance of living a life dedicated to God, detached from worldly desires, and focused on serving God through Jesus Christ for the kingdom of heaven. He highlights the purity and holiness required, akin to the holy angels, and the special place reserved in God's house for those who choose a life of celibacy and virginity. Clement encourages believers to prioritize the heavenly hope promised by God over earthly pursuits, acknowledging the superior reward awaiting those who faithfully serve God.
Text
For he who covets for himself these things so great and excellent, withdraws and severs himself on this account from all the world, that he may go and live a life divine and heavenly, like the holy angels, in work pure and holy, and in the holiness of the Spirit of God, and that he may serve God Almighty through Jesus Christ for the sake of the kingdom of heaven. On this account he severs himself from all the appetites of the body.
And not only does he excuse himself from this command, Be fruitful, and multiply, but he longs for the hope promised and prepared and laid up in heaven by God, who has declared with His mouth, and He does not lie, that it is better than sons and daughters, and that He will give to virgins a notable place in the house of God, which is something better than sons and daughters, and better than the place of those who have passed a wedded life in sanctity, and whose bed has not been defiled.
For God will give to virgins the kingdom of heaven, as to the holy angels, by reason of this great and noble profession.
Sermon Outline
- I points: - Understanding Self-Denial - The Purpose of Self-Denial - The Call to a Divine Life
- II points: - Severing from Worldly Desires - Living a Life of Holiness - Serving God through Jesus Christ
- III points: - The Promise of Heaven - The Value of Spiritual Rewards - The Role of Virgins in God's Kingdom
Key Quotes
“For he who covets for himself these things so great and excellent, withdraws and severs himself on this account from all the world.” — Clement of Rome
“He longs for the hope promised and prepared and laid up in heaven by God, who has declared with His mouth, and He does not lie.” — Clement of Rome
“God will give to virgins the kingdom of heaven, as to the holy angels, by reason of this great and noble profession.” — Clement of Rome
Application Points
- Consider areas in your life where you can practice self-denial to grow closer to God.
- Reflect on the eternal rewards of living a holy life versus temporary worldly pleasures.
- Encourage others to seek a divine purpose in their lives through self-denial and service to God.