Romans 5:3
And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience;
Original Language Analysis
ἀλλὰ
so but
G235
ἀλλὰ
so but
Strong's:
G235
Word #:
4 of 15
properly, other things, i.e., (adverbially) contrariwise (in many relations)
καὶ
also
G2532
καὶ
also
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
5 of 15
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
ταῖς
G3588
ταῖς
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
8 of 15
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
εἰδότες
knowing
G1492
εἰδότες
knowing
Strong's:
G1492
Word #:
10 of 15
used only in certain past tenses, the others being borrowed from the equivalent g3700 and g3708; properly, to see (literally or figuratively); by impl
ὅτι
that
G3754
ὅτι
that
Strong's:
G3754
Word #:
11 of 15
demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because
ἡ
G3588
ἡ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
12 of 15
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
Cross References
James 1:12Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him.1 Peter 3:14But and if ye suffer for righteousness' sake, happy are ye: and be not afraid of their terror, neither be troubled;2 Corinthians 4:17For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory;Luke 21:19In your patience possess ye your souls.Ephesians 3:13Wherefore I desire that ye faint not at my tribulations for you, which is your glory.Acts 5:41And they departed from the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for his name.
Historical Context
For the Roman church facing increasing hostility under Nero (who would launch systematic persecution in AD 64), Paul's theology of suffering was intensely practical. The empire valued conquest and glory through military might; Paul proclaimed glory through suffering with Christ. This inversion of worldly values echoed Jesus's teaching that losing one's life gains it (Mark 8:35) and His beatitudes pronouncing blessing on the persecuted (Matthew 5:10-12).
Questions for Reflection
- What prevents you from 'glorying in tribulations'—lack of faith in God's purposes or misunderstanding of suffering's role?
- How can you distinguish between suffering that produces patience and suffering that results from foolishness or sin?
- In what current trial might God be working to develop patient endurance in your character?
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Analysis & Commentary
And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also (ἀλλὰ καὶ καυχώμεθα ἐν ταῖς θλίψεσιν)—the same verb 'boast/rejoice' now takes the startling object of tribulations (θλίψεσιν, thlipsesin), a term denoting crushing pressure, affliction, persecution. This is neither masochism nor Stoic resignation but eschatological confidence: present sufferings are birth pangs of coming glory (8:18).
Knowing that tribulation worketh patience—the participle εἰδότες (eidotes, 'knowing') indicates settled conviction, not mere speculation. The divine pedagogy proceeds: θλῖψις (thlipsis, tribulation) produces ὑπομονή (hypomonē, patient endurance), not passive resignation but active perseverance. James 1:2-4 and 1 Peter 1:6-7 develop this same theology of sanctified suffering.