What does Romans 8:21 mean?

Explanation

Romans 8:21 speaks to the future hope and restoration that creation itself will experience.

The "creature" or "creation" mentioned here refers to the natural world and all living beings, which, according to the Apostle Paul, are subjected to "the bondage of corruption." This phrasing acknowledges that the world we live in is fractured and affected by sin, resulting in imperfection, decay, and death.

However, the verse confidently proclaims that the creation will not remain in this state of corruption forever.

Instead, there is a promise of deliverance into a state of freedom and glory as seen and experienced by "the children of God." These children of God are believers who have received salvation through Jesus Christ and embrace the hope of eternal life.

In a deeper sense, this verse not just speaks to individual redemption but to the cosmic redemption that will take place at the end of time.

It reaffirms the Christian belief that the redemption through Christ is an extensive plan that includes not only the salvation of human beings but also the entire created order.

Historical Context

Romans was written by Paul likely between A.D. 56-58, as he was preparing for his missionary journey to Spain.

The epistle was addressed to the Christian church in Rome, which was a diverse community consisting of both Jewish and Gentile believers.

In Paul's day, Rome was the epicenter of the known world, and it brought together many cultures and religions.

The idea of a suffering creation waiting for liberation could resonate widely with the Greco-Roman audience, as themes of the renewal of the world were present in various philosophies and religions at the time.

The "bondage of corruption" could be understood against the background of the general decay and mortality that was evident in the world, a theme not uncommon in ancient literature.

Theological Insights

Various theological insights emerge from Romans 8:21.

Prevalently, it asserts God’s sovereignty over all creation and His plan for its ultimate renewal.

This aligns with the eschatological hope found throughout Christian teachings, that with the second coming of Christ, creation will also be transformed and perfected.

Additionally, this verse has been interpreted in line with the doctrine of original sin, positing that creation was subjected to futility not willingly (as per Romans 8:20), because of human sin.

The verse thus reflects a connection between human actions and the state of the natural world.

Another perspective viewed from a more ecumenical lens sees this as an encouragement for humans to take responsibility for the environment. It portrays a future collaboration in the redemption of the world, recognizing both a divine and human role in caring for creation.

Practical Applications

Practically speaking, Romans 8:21 obliges Christians to view the natural world with respect and hope. One application may be environmental stewardship, as believers might feel motivated to care for the planet in anticipation of its future glory.

On a personal level, this verse can provide comfort and patience in suffering, as it offers a picture of future liberation and glory.

In daily struggles, individuals can find hope knowing that current circumstances are not permanent and that there is a promise of redemption that extends beyond the personal to the cosmic.

Cross-References

• Romans 8:19-20: "For the earnest expectation of the creature waiteth for the manifestation of the sons of God.

For the creature was made subject to vanity, not willingly, but by reason of him who hath subjected the same in hope,"

• Revelation 21:1: "And I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away; and there was no more sea."
• 2 Peter 3:13: "Nevertheless we, according to his promise, look for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness."
• Colossians 1:20: "And, having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; by him, I say, whether they be things in earth, or things in heaven."

Language Study

In the original Greek text, key words stand out, including:

• "ktisis" (κτίσις) - traditionally translated as "creature," but more accurately as "creation." It involves the entire order of created things.
• "douleia" (δουλεία) - meaning "bondage" or "slavery," illustrating a state of being controlled or dominated.
• "phthoras" (φθοράς) - "corruption" or "decay," referring to the state of perishability in the natural world.
• "eleutheria" (ἐλευθερία) - "liberty" or "freedom," indicating a release from bondage or liberation.

The usage of these words underlines the exhaustive scope of redemption across all creation, and the transformation from decay to freedom and glory.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

The concept of a suffering world and its eventual renewal is not unique to Christianity and can be compared to various myths and religions.

For instance, in Hinduism, the concept of a cycle of ages from golden to dark (Yugas) implies a world that deteriorates but is then renewed.

Similar themes are found in Norse mythology, with the idea of Ragnarok followed by a new world where gods and men live peacefully.

However, the Christian narrative as outlined in Romans 8:21 is distinctive in that it ties the fate of creation directly to the relationship between God and humanity, and the specific event of redemption through Jesus Christ.

Scientific Perspectives

From the scientific perspective, the verse raises intriguing questions about the nature of the universe.

While science describes the universe as subject to entropy and decay (the second law of thermodynamics), this verse points to a different trajectory, an eventual transformation or renewal.

Although not aligning with current scientific understanding, these beliefs could inspire conversations about sustainability, environmental impact, and the long-term fate of the cosmos.

Commentaries

Various Bible scholars and theologians have commented on Romans 8:21:

• John Stott suggests that the entire creation is personified by Paul and is standing on tiptoe, eagerly anticipating the day of liberation.
• N.T.

Wright views the passage in light of the resurrection, emphasizing that what happened to Jesus in His resurrection is a foretaste of what will happen to all creation.

• Douglas Moo argues for the importance of this verse in understanding Christian environmental responsibility, as it calls for the caretaking of a creation that awaits future redemption.

These commentaries highlight the interplay between present human responsibility, the impact of sin on creation, and the eschatological hope set forth in Christian theology.