Clement of Rome emphasizes the importance of gratitude, personal struggle with sin, and the fear of judgment in living a righteous life.
Clement of Rome emphasizes the importance of gratitude, service to God, and righteousness to avoid judgment. Despite acknowledging personal sinfulness and struggles with temptation, he urges the congregation to strive for righteousness out of fear of the impending judgment.
Text
And let us, then, be of the number of those who give thanks, who have served God, and not of the ungodly who are judged. For I myself, though a sinner every whit and not yet fleeing temptation but continuing in the midst of the tools of the devil, study to follow after righteousness, that I may make, be it only some, approach to it, fearing the judgment to come.
Sermon Outline
- The Importance of Gratitude
- Personal Struggle with Sin
- The Fear of Judgment
- Fearing the judgment to come
- Motivating one to pursue righteousness
- Continuing to seek righteousness
Key Quotes
“For I myself, though a sinner every whit and not yet fleeing temptation but continuing in the midst of the tools of the devil,” — Clement of Rome
Application Points
- Make a conscious effort to be more grateful for God's presence and blessings in your life.
- Acknowledge and accept your own sinfulness, and continue to seek righteousness.
- Fearing the judgment to come can motivate you to live a more righteous life.
