What does Romans 8:31 mean?

Explanation

Romans 8:31 is a statement of Christian assurance, expressing the invincibility of those who are aligned with God.

The apostle Paul poses a rhetorical question, "What shall we then say to these things?" which refers to the series of affirmations he previously made about God's purpose and love for those who believe.

The "these things" encompasses the arguments made in the earlier part of Romans 8 regarding the Spirit's work, God's purpose in predestination, calling, justification, and glorification of believers.

Paul is encouraging believers to reflect on these truths in times of challenge or doubt.

The second part of the verse, "If God be for us, who can be against us?" suggests that because believers have God on their side, there is no opposition that can prevail against them.

It is a declaration of God's absolute power and unending support for His people, asserting that any adversarial force is rendered powerless in the face of divine backing.

The implication is not necessarily that believers will not face opposition, but rather that ultimately they will overcome, supported by God's sovereignty.

Historical Context

Romans was written by the apostle Paul around AD 56-58.

It was addressed to the young Christian church in Rome, which was a diverse community composed of both Jewish and Gentile Christians.

At this time, Christians in Rome had not yet faced the intense persecution that would come later under Emperor Nero, but they were living in a society where they were frequently misunderstood and sometimes discriminated against on account of their faith.

Paul sought to unite the church and provide doctrinal clarity on central issues of faith, salvation, and Christian living.

Theological Insights

From a theological perspective, Romans 8:31 has been interpreted in various ways across different Christian traditions:

• For Protestants, this verse is often seen as an affirmation of the doctrine of the perseverance of the saints, suggesting that nothing can separate believers from God’s love or upset His redemptive plan for them.
• In Catholicism, while God's grace and help are considered necessary for salvation and overcoming adversity, the cooperation of free will is also emphasized.
• In the Reformed tradition, it speaks to the sovereignty of God and the confidence believers can have in the face of adversity, knowing that their lives are governed by God's providence.

Practical Applications

This verse is often invoked for comfort and reassurance in the face of life’s challenges.

It can be utilized to encourage believers to trust in God's support during times of suffering, conflict, or after experiencing setbacks.

It can be a reminder to maintain faith and not to be overwhelmed by adversities or the opposition of others, because the ultimate victory belongs to God.

Cross-References

• Isaiah 54:17: "No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper; and every tongue that shall rise against thee in judgment thou shalt condemn..."
• Psalm 118:6: "The LORD is on my side; I will not fear: what can man do unto me?"
• John 10:28-29: "And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand..."

Language Study

In the original Greek, "If God be for us" is "εἰ ὁ Θεὸς ὑπὲρ ἡμῶν," where "ὑπὲρ" (hyper) has the sense of "on behalf of" or "in support of." "Who can be against us?" translates from "τίς καθ’ ἡμῶν," with "καθ’" (kath') being short for "κατά" (kata), indicating "against" in a hostile sense.

This juxtaposes God's supportive posture with any hostile opposition, highlighting the futility of the latter against the sovereignty of God.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In other ancient religions, gods often sided with or supported their followers in battles or endeavors, influencing the outcome. The idea of a deity being 'for' a group or individual is not unique to Christianity and can be found in various mythologies.

However, the monotheistic emphasis in Christianity brings a unique aspect wherein there is only one sovereign God working for the good of his followers.

Scientific Perspectives

From a scientific viewpoint, the concept of God being "for us" reflects subjective human experience rather than an empirical fact subject to scientific analysis.

While science can study the psychological and social impacts of holding such beliefs, it does not address the metaphysical claims about divine support or opposition.

Commentaries

Commentary on this verse varies among theologians and biblical scholars:

• John Stott, an English Christian leader and theologian, saw this verse as a powerful encouragement, noting that Christians can be fearless in light of God’s commitment to them.
• F.F.

Bruce, a biblical scholar, emphasized the unbreakable chain of salvation, suggesting that this verse underscores the security of the believer in God’s eternal purpose.

• N.T.

Wright, a contemporary New Testament scholar, argues that this verse, and the surrounding context in Romans 8, speaks to the assurance that believers have in the present time, not merely a distant future promise, of God's love and help in all circumstances.