Romans 8:31
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Romans 8:31
31 What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us?
Chapter Context
Romans 8 is a theological exposition chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of righteousness, fellowship, wisdom. 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 8:31
31 What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us?
Analysis
What shall we then say to these things? (Tí oûn eroûmen pròs taûta)—Taûta ("these things") references vv. 1-30, especially the golden chain of redemption. Paul asks rhetorically: given God's sovereign, comprehensive salvation—foreknowledge, predestination, calling, justification, glorification—what conclusion must we draw? This introduces the triumphant finale (vv. 31-39), application of salvation's certainties.
If God be for us, who can be against us? (ei ho theòs hypèr hēmōn, tís kath' hēmōn)—Ei assumes the condition is true: God is for us (demonstrated in vv. 1-30). Hypèr hēmōn ("for us") means on our side, advocating for us. Tís kath' hēmōn ("who against us") is rhetorical—the expected answer is "no one who can prevail." Enemies exist (Satan, persecutors, sin), but none can overcome God's electing love. This isn't triumphalism denying suffering (vv. 17-18, 35-36) but confidence that no suffering can separate from God or thwart His purposes.
Historical Context
This verse sustained martyrs facing Rome's power. Stephen, facing stoning, saw Christ standing at God's right hand (Acts 7:55-56). Polycarp, burned alive (AD 155), refused to deny Christ: "Eighty-six years I have served Him, and He has done me no wrong. How can I blaspheme my King who saved me?" God's advocacy guarantees victory despite temporal defeat.
Reflection
- How does knowing "God is for us" sustain faith when circumstances suggest He is absent or opposed?
- Who or what feels "against us" in your life—how does this verse provide perspective?
- How does God being "for us" relate to the sufferings mentioned in vv. 17-18 and 35-36?
Word Studies
- God: Θεός (Theos) G2316 - God
Cross-References
- References God: Psalms 56:4, 56:11, 1 John 4:4
- Parallel theme: Genesis 15:1, Numbers 14:9, Deuteronomy 33:29, Psalms 118:6, Isaiah 54:17, Jeremiah 1:19