Romans 8:19
For the earnest expectation of the creature waiteth for the manifestation of the sons of God.
Original Language Analysis
ἡ
G3588
ἡ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
1 of 12
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
γὰρ
For
G1063
γὰρ
For
Strong's:
G1063
Word #:
2 of 12
properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)
τῆς
G3588
τῆς
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
4 of 12
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
κτίσεως
of the creature
G2937
κτίσεως
of the creature
Strong's:
G2937
Word #:
5 of 12
original formation (properly, the act; by implication, the thing, literally or figuratively)
τὴν
G3588
τὴν
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
6 of 12
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
τῶν
G3588
τῶν
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
8 of 12
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
υἱῶν
of the sons
G5207
υἱῶν
of the sons
Strong's:
G5207
Word #:
9 of 12
a "son" (sometimes of animals), used very widely of immediate, remote or figuratively, kinship
τοῦ
G3588
τοῦ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
10 of 12
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
Cross References
Romans 8:23And not only they, but ourselves also, which have the firstfruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, waiting for the adoption, to wit, the redemption of our body.1 John 3:2Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is.Philippians 1:20According to my earnest expectation and my hope, that in nothing I shall be ashamed, but that with all boldness, as always, so now also Christ shall be magnified in my body, whether it be by life, or by death.Isaiah 65:17For, behold, I create new heavens and a new earth: and the former shall not be remembered, nor come into mind.Acts 3:21Whom the heaven must receive until the times of restitution of all things, which God hath spoken by the mouth of all his holy prophets since the world began.
Historical Context
Ancient cosmology saw little connection between human morality and cosmic order (except astrology's determinism). Biblical theology presents radical integration: humanity's rebellion cursed creation; humanity's redemption will liberate it. This ecological theology anticipates new heavens and new earth (Isaiah 65:17; 2 Peter 3:13; Revelation 21:1).
Questions for Reflection
- How does creation's "earnest expectation" for redeemed humanity challenge Christian escapism or anti-materialism?
- What does the connection between human sin/redemption and cosmic curse/liberation teach about God's holistic purposes?
- How should this verse shape Christian environmental stewardship without baptizing secular environmentalism?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
For the earnest expectation of the creature waiteth for the manifestation of the sons of God (hē apokaradokia tēs ktiseōs tēn apokalupsin tōn huiōn tou theou apekdechetai)—Apokaradokia is vivid: apo (from) + kara (head) + dokia (watching), picturing someone craning their neck, straining to see. Ktisis ("creature/creation") likely refers to sub-human creation, not unregenerate humanity. All creation eagerly awaits apokalupsin ("unveiling/revelation") when the sons of God are publicly manifested in glory (Colossians 3:4; 1 John 3:2).
The personification is striking: creation itself anticipates the day when God's children are revealed. This isn't mere poetic device but theological reality—creation's destiny is bound to humanity's. When humanity fell, creation fell under curse (Genesis 3:17-19); when humanity is glorified, creation will be liberated (v. 21). The whole cosmos groans for redemption's consummation.