What does Romans 8:17 mean?

Explanation

Romans 8:17 expresses the idea that believers in Jesus Christ are considered God’s children and therefore are heirs to the spiritual legacy that comes from this divine relationship.

This passage not only speaks of the privilege of being an heir of God but also shares the condition that to attain such glory one must be willing to suffer alongside Christ.

The verse highlights the interconnectedness of suffering and future glory, establishing that sharing in Christ's sufferings leads to sharing in his glory.

The term "joint-heirs" also implies that we stand on equal ground with Christ in the spiritual inheritance, though it by no means implies equality with Christ in nature or status.

Historical Context

The Epistle to the Romans, authored by the Apostle Paul around A.D. 57, addresses both Jewish and Gentile Christians in Rome.

Its purpose is to explain the doctrine of salvation by grace through faith in Jesus Christ.

During this period, early Christians faced social ostracism, persecution, and misunderstanding.

The concept of suffering was very real to them, and Paul sought to encourage believers by placing their present hardships in the context of the ultimate glory they would inherit as children of God.

Theological Insights

From a theological perspective, Romans 8:17 has been a subject of interpretation across various Christian traditions:

• Adoptionism: This verse has been cited to explain the concept of adoption, where believers are adopted into God's family and thus gain an inheritance.
• Suffering: The verse suggests that suffering in unity with Christ leads to a future shared glory, which further cements the idea of redemptive suffering within some Christian traditions.
• Predestination and Free Will: Some theologians see this verse as supporting the doctrine of predestination, wherein God foreknows and chooses the heirs, while others emphasize the cooperative aspect of willingly suffering with Christ as a choice that believers make.
• Eschatology: The inheritance promised to believers is often viewed in an eschatological light, where the glorification is part of the believers’ ultimate destiny with God.

Practical Applications

Romans 8:17 encourages believers to endure hardships with a sense of hope and purpose, knowing that these sufferings are temporary and lead to a greater glory. Practically, this can foster resilience and patience in difficult times.

In addition, it calls for unity with Christ and an examination of one's willingness to follow Christ's example, even into suffering, always looking forward to the promised inheritance.

Cross-References

• Galatians 4:7: “Wherefore thou art no more a servant, but a son; and if a son, then an heir of God through Christ.”
• 2 Timothy 2:12: "If we suffer, we shall also reign with him: if we deny him, he also will deny us."
• 1 Peter 4:13: "But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ's sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy."

Language Study

In the original Greek text:

• τέκνα (tekna): Translated as "children,” emphasizing the relationship of believers to God as a parent.
• κληρονόμοι (klēronomoi): Meaning "heirs," or those who receive an inheritance.
• συγκληρονόμοι (syngklēronomoi): Translated as "joint-heirs," showing a sharing of the inheritance with Christ.
• πάσχομεν (paschomen): Translated as "we suffer," indicating a present and active experience of hardship.
• δοξασθῶμεν (doxasthōmen): Meaning "be glorified," future passive, indicating that the glorification is performed by another (God) on believers.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In the context of ancient cultures, the concept of an heir was crucial, especially for the transfer of wealth, power, and status.

Many myths and religions have stories of gods adopting humans or humans becoming divine heirs. The uniqueness of the Christian narrative is encapsulated in the universal availability of this spiritual inheritance to all who are in Christ, regardless of birthright or social status.

Scientific Perspectives

While the verse does not directly relate to scientific concepts, the human experience of suffering and the psychological aspect of hope can be studied scientifically.

Research in psychology might explore how a hopeful outlook based on a belief in future glory can impact one's ability to cope with suffering.

Commentaries

Leading biblical scholars have interpreted Romans 8:17 in different ways.

• John Stott: He suggests that suffering is an inevitable part of the Christian life but shares the notion of it being a pathway to future glory.
• **N.T.

Wright**: Wright sees the verse as a validation of the Christian hope, tying suffering and glory closely together, much as they are in the person and work of Christ.

• Douglas Moo: Moo emphasizes the 'already but not yet' aspect of Christian inheritance, meaning that believers already have the status of God's children, but the full benefits of this status, including glorification, lie in the future.