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Every Knee Will Bow Romans 14:11 Series
Contributed by Dean Courtier on Apr 23, 2024 (message contributor)
Summary: Romans 14:11 underscores the ultimate authority and sovereignty of God, calling all humanity to acknowledge Him as Lord.
Every Knee Will Bow Romans 14:11
Introduction:
Today, we delve into the profound truth encapsulated in Romans 14:11, which declares, "For the Scriptures say, 'As surely as I live,' says the Lord, 'every knee will bend to me, and every tongue will declare allegiance to God.'" This verse underscores the ultimate authority and sovereignty of God, calling all humanity to acknowledge Him as Lord.
Point 1: The Sovereignty of God
The foundation of this verse lies in the absolute sovereignty of God. As the Creator of all things, He holds ultimate authority over the universe and every individual. This truth is echoed throughout Scripture:
Isaiah 45:23 (NLT): "I have sworn by my own name; I have spoken the truth, and I will never go back on my word: Every knee will bend to me, and every tongue will declare allegiance to me."
This verse from Isaiah emphasizes the divine authority of God. It declares that every knee will bow and every tongue will confess allegiance to God. This imagery portrays universal acknowledgment and submission to God's sovereign rule.
Philippians 2:10-11 (NLT): "that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue declare that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father."
In Philippians, Paul echoes the sentiment of Isaiah, affirming that every knee will bow at the name of Jesus. This passage emphasises the exaltation of Christ, demonstrating His supreme authority over all creation. The ultimate confession of Jesus as Lord brings glory to God the Father.
The imagery of bending the knee and confessing allegiance signifies a universal acknowledgment of God's lordship. It speaks to the profound reality that every soul will one day recognise and honour Him as the sovereign ruler.
Point 2: The Day of Judgment
Romans 14:11 also points us to the future day of judgment, where every individual will stand before God. This momentous event is described vividly in Scripture:
Revelation 20:12 (NLT): "I saw the dead, both great and small, standing before God’s throne. And the books were opened, including the Book of Life. And the dead were judged according to what they had done, as recorded in the books."
Revelation depicts the scene of final judgment, where all humanity stands before God. This verse underscores the accountability of every individual before God, who judges based on each person's deeds as recorded in the books. It highlights the solemn reality of the future day of reckoning.
2 Corinthians 5:10 (NLT): "For we must all stand before Christ to be judged. We will each receive whatever we deserve for the good or evil we have done in this earthly body."
Paul emphasises the certainty of facing judgment before Christ. This verse underscores the accountability of believers and non-believers alike. Our deeds, whether good or evil, will be evaluated by Christ, highlighting the importance of living in alignment with His will.
The truth of every knee bowing and every tongue confessing underscores the certainty of this divine reckoning. It compels us to reflect on the state of our hearts and the importance of living in readiness for the coming judgment.
Point 3: The Call to Surrender and Allegiance
In light of this truth, we are called to a life of surrender and allegiance to God here and now. This involves:
Repentance and Faith: Turning from sin and embracing Christ as Lord and Saviour.
Submission to His Will: Yielding every area of our lives to His lordship.
Obedience and Service: Living out our faith in obedience to His Word and serving His kingdom purposes.
Application and Call to Action:
The verses we have considered today collectively highlight the profound truths of God's sovereignty, Christ's lordship, and the future day of judgment.
As believers, we are called to:
Acknowledge God's authority and lordship over our lives.
Surrender to Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior.
Live in readiness for the coming judgment, striving to honour God in all that we do.
Share the gospel boldly, inviting others to confess Jesus Christ as Lord.
As we conclude, let us respond to this truth with humility and reverence:
Acknowledge God's Sovereignty: Surrender every area of your life to His lordship.
Prepare for the Day of Judgment: Live with eternity in mind, seeking to honour God in all things.
Proclaim His Lordship: Share the gospel boldly, inviting others to bow the knee to Jesus Christ.
May these truths inspire us to live transformed lives, fully surrendered to the lordship of Jesus Christ, and eagerly awaiting His return and the day of final judgment.
May we live transformed lives, fully submitted to the truth that every knee will bow and every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord!