Romans 8:18
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Romans 8:18
18 For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.
Chapter Context
Romans 8 is a theological exposition chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of truth, obedience, judgment. Written during Paul's third missionary journey (c. 57 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Christians in Rome navigated tensions between Jewish and Gentile believers under imperial watch.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-39: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it articulates the doctrines of justification, sanctification, and glorification. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Romans and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Romans 8:18
18 For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.
Analysis
For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us (logizomai hoti ouk axia ta pathēmata tou nun kairou pros tēn mellousan doxan apokalupthēnai eis hēmas)—Logizomai ("I reckon") is accounting terminology: Paul has calculated the comparison and reached a verdict. Ouk axia ("not worthy") means sufferings don't deserve comparison—the disproportion is infinite. Pathēmata includes all Christian suffering: persecution, illness, loss, sorrow.
The glory which shall be revealed in us (tēn mellousan doxan apokalupthēnai eis hēmas)—The glory isn't merely to us but in us (eis hēmas). The passive apokalupthēnai ("be revealed") indicates God unveils what is presently hidden. Believers will be transformed into Christ's glorious image (2 Corinthians 3:18; Philippians 3:21; 1 John 3:2). This glory is melousa ("about to be"), imminent on God's timeline though delayed by human reckoning (2 Peter 3:8-9).
Historical Context
Paul wrote during Nero's early reign (AD 57); persecution would intensify dramatically within a decade. For Roman Christians facing potential martyrdom, this verse provided hope: present suffering, however intense, cannot compare with coming glory. This sustained believers through centuries of persecution from Nero through Diocletian.
Reflection
- How does contemplating future glory help endure present suffering without minimizing real pain?
- What specific aspects of "the glory to be revealed" do you most long for?
- How does this verse answer the question "Why do Christians suffer?"
Word Studies
- Glory: δόξα (Doxa) G1391 - Glory, majesty, splendor
Cross-References
- Glory: Colossians 3:4, 2 Thessalonians 2:14, 1 Peter 4:13, 5:1
- Parallel theme: Acts 20:24, Hebrews 11:35, 1 Peter 1:13, 1 John 3:2