Romans 11:36

KJV

For of him, and through him, and to him, [are] all things: to whom [be] glory for ever. Amen.

KJV (with Strong's)

For {G3754} of {G1537} him {G846}, and {G2532} through {G1223} him {G846}, and {G2532} to {G1519} him {G846}, are all things {G3956}: to whom {G846} be glory {G1391} for {G1519} ever {G165}. Amen {G281}.

Complete Jewish Bible

For from him and through him
and to him are all things.
To him be the glory forever!
Amen.

Berean Standard Bible

For from Him and through Him and to Him are all things. To Him be the glory forever! Amen.

American Standard Version

For of him, and through him, and unto him, are all things. To him be the glory for ever. Amen.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Romans 11:36 stands as a majestic doxology, a triumphant declaration that caps Paul's intricate theological exploration in chapters 9-11 concerning God's sovereign dealings with Israel and the Gentiles. It proclaims God as the ultimate source, the active sustainer, and the final purpose of all existence, culminating in an eternal ascription of glory to Him. This verse serves as a profound theological anchor, asserting God's absolute and comprehensive sovereignty over every facet of creation and redemptive history.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse serves as the grand theological crescendo to Paul's profound and often challenging argument in [Romans 9-11](/romans/9-11 "Romans 9-11 - God's Plan for Israel and Gentiles"). Having wrestled with the mystery of Israel's partial hardening, God's faithfulness to His covenant promises, and the unexpected inclusion of Gentiles into the family of God, Paul culminates his discourse not with a definitive answer to every human "why," but with an awe-filled surrender to God's incomprehensible wisdom and knowledge. The preceding verses, [Romans 11:33-35](/romans/11-33-35 "Romans 11:33-35 - Paul's Doxology of God's Wisdom"), pose rhetorical questions emphasizing God's unsearchable judgments and untraceable ways, asserting that no one has advised or given to God first. Romans 11:36, therefore, is the natural and inevitable outpouring of praise, a theological capstone that affirms God's absolute sovereignty and self-sufficiency over all His intricate and wise dealings with humanity and the cosmos.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Paul's letter to the Romans was addressed to a church composed of both Jewish and Gentile believers, a community often marked by tensions arising from differing understandings of God's covenant with Israel and the implications of Christ's coming. Jewish believers might have struggled with the apparent rejection of Israel, while Gentile believers might have become arrogant in their inclusion. Paul's argument throughout [Romans 9-11](/romans/9-11 "Romans 9-11 - God's Plan for Israel and Gentiles") directly confronts these issues, demonstrating God's faithfulness to His promises while simultaneously revealing His broader redemptive plan for all humanity. In the Greco-Roman world, various philosophical schools posited different views of deity, often depicting gods as distant, capricious, or limited. Paul's declaration in [Romans 11:36](/romans/11-36 "Romans 11:36 - God as Source, Means, and End") stands in stark contrast, presenting the one true God as intimately involved in and sovereign over all things, from their origin to their ultimate purpose, challenging any notion of a limited or uninvolved deity.

* **Key Themes:** [Romans 11:36](/romans/11-36 "Romans 11:36 - God as Source, Means, and End") profoundly contributes to several overarching themes within the book of Romans and biblical theology. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **Divine Sovereignty**, asserting God's absolute control and ultimate authority over all creation and history. Every event, every person, every atom exists because of Him, through Him, and for Him. Secondly, it highlights the **Cosmic Scope of God's Plan**, emphasizing that His redemptive work, as detailed in [Romans](/romans/1 "The Book of Romans"), is not limited to Israel or any single group, but encompasses "all things," pointing to a universal design. Thirdly, the verse reinforces the **Teleological Nature of Creation and Redemption**, meaning that everything has an ultimate purpose, and that purpose is God's glory. This aligns with the broader biblical narrative where creation exists to display God's attributes, and redemption serves to bring Him praise. Finally, it culminates in the theme of **Worship and Doxology**, demonstrating that the proper response to contemplating God's unsearchable wisdom and comprehensive dominion is humble adoration and eternal praise, as seen in [Revelation 4:11](/revelation/4-11 "Revelation 4:11 - Worthy Are You, Our Lord and God").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **of (Greek, _ek'_):** This preposition denotes origin, the point from which something proceeds. In [Romans 11:36](/romans/11-36 "Romans 11:36 - God as Source, Means, and End"), "of him" (ἐκ αὐτοῦ) signifies that God is the ultimate source, the primordial cause, the very fount from which all things derive their existence. Everything that is, is because God willed it into being.
* **through (Greek, _diá'_):** This preposition indicates the channel or means by which an act is accomplished. "Through him" (δι’ αὐτοῦ) emphasizes God's active agency and continuous involvement in sustaining and orchestrating creation. He is not merely the initial creator but the ongoing sustainer and the means by which all things operate and are held together.
* **to (Greek, _eis'_):** This preposition signifies the point reached, the purpose, or the goal. "To him" (εἰς αὐτόν) highlights the teleological aspect: all things ultimately exist for God's purpose and are directed towards Him. The grand design of the universe and the unfolding of history find their ultimate end and culmination in His glory.
* **glory (Greek, _dóxa'_):** Derived from a root meaning "to seem," this word refers to God's inherent majesty, honor, praise, and radiant splendor. In this doxology, "glory for ever" (δόξα εἰς αἰῶνα) is the fitting and eternal response to God's comprehensive sovereignty as the source, means, and end of all things. It is the recognition of His intrinsic worth and magnificent attributes.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"For of him":** This clause establishes God as the ultimate origin and primary cause of all things. It asserts divine aseity – God's self-existence and independence – and His role as the uncreated Creator from whom all creation flows.
* **"and through him":** This phrase emphasizes God's continuous active involvement as the sustaining power and operative agent. He is not a distant deistic god who merely set things in motion, but one who actively upholds, governs, and orchestrates every aspect of His creation.
* **"and to him, are all things":** This climactic statement declares that all things exist for God's ultimate purpose and are directed towards Him as their final end. The entire created order and the unfolding of redemptive history find their meaning and culmination in bringing honor and praise to God.
* **"to whom be glory for ever.":** This is a doxological exclamation, a spontaneous outburst of worship. It is a declaration that God alone is worthy of all honor, majesty, and praise, not just for a time, but eternally. This is the natural and fitting response to contemplating His boundless wisdom, power, and comprehensive dominion.
* **"Amen.":** This Hebrew affirmation, meaning "so be it" or "truly," seals the doxology with conviction and solemn agreement. It expresses a profound sense of certainty and heartfelt assent to the truth of the preceding declaration.

#### Literary Devices
Romans 11:36 is rich with literary artistry that amplifies its theological depth. The most prominent device is the **Triadic Structure** formed by the three prepositions: "of him," "through him," and "to him." This rhetorical device creates a comprehensive and all-encompassing statement about God's relationship to creation, presenting Him as the alpha, the omega, and everything in between. This comprehensive statement also functions as a **Merism**, where "all things" (Greek: _panta_) implies the totality of existence, from the smallest particle to the grandest galaxy, encompassing both creation and redemption. The verse itself is a **Doxology**, a hymn of praise and adoration directed to God, which serves as a fitting conclusion to Paul's complex theological argument. The final word, "Amen," acts as an **Affirmation** or seal, lending solemnity and certainty to the preceding declaration, inviting the reader to concur with this profound truth.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This profound doxology encapsulates a foundational truth about God's relationship to His creation and His redemptive plan. It asserts God's absolute sovereignty, not merely as a theoretical concept, but as the living reality that undergirds all existence. The "of him, through him, and to him" triad speaks to God's aseity (He is the source of all being), His active providence (He sustains and governs all things), and His teleological purpose (all things exist for His glory). This comprehensive statement means that nothing is outside of God's ultimate control or His overarching purpose, providing immense comfort and a call to worship for believers. It reminds us that even the most complex and perplexing aspects of God's dealings, such as the mystery of Israel's hardening and restoration, ultimately serve His grand design and redound to His eternal glory.

* [1 Corinthians 8:6](/1_corinthians/8-6 "1 Corinthians 8:6 - One God, One Lord")
* [Colossians 1:16-17](/colossians/1-16-17 "Colossians 1:16-17 - Christ as Creator and Sustainer")
* [Revelation 4:11](/revelation/4-11 "Revelation 4:11 - Worthy Are You, Our Lord and God")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Romans 11:36 calls believers to a profound reorientation of perspective, shifting our focus from self-centeredness to God-centeredness. Understanding that God is the ultimate source, the active sustainer, and the final goal of "all things" should profoundly impact how we live, think, and worship. This truth liberates us from the burden of self-sufficiency and invites us into a life of humble dependence and joyful adoration. In moments of confusion, suffering, or uncertainty, this verse serves as an unshakable anchor, reminding us that God is sovereignly working all things according to His wise and good purpose, even when His ways are beyond our full comprehension. It compels us to live lives that consciously reflect His glory in every sphere, from our daily tasks to our grandest aspirations, recognizing that our very existence is "of Him, through Him, and to Him." This doxology is not merely a theological statement but a call to a life of perpetual worship, trusting in the God who holds all things together and directs them toward His glorious end.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the truth that "all things are of Him, through Him, and to Him" challenge or affirm your understanding of God's sovereignty in your daily life?**
* **In what specific areas of your life (e.g., career, relationships, challenges) can you intentionally seek to acknowledge God as the source, means, and ultimate purpose?**
* **What practical steps can you take to cultivate a deeper sense of worship and give God glory "for ever" in your thoughts, words, and actions?**
* **How does this verse provide comfort or challenge when facing difficult or seemingly inexplicable circumstances in the world or in your personal life?**

### FAQ

**What does the phrase "of him, and through him, and to him, are all things" truly mean?**

Answer: This profound phrase is a comprehensive theological statement about God's relationship to all existence. "Of him" (Greek: _ek_) signifies that God is the ultimate source and origin of everything. Nothing exists that did not originate from His will and power. "Through him" (Greek: _diá_) emphasizes God's active role as the sustainer and agent by whom all things are upheld, operate, and continue to exist. He is not a distant creator but an immanent, active governor of the universe. "To him" (Greek: _eis_) highlights that all things find their ultimate purpose, goal, and culmination in God. Everything exists for His glory, and the grand design of creation and redemption is ultimately directed back to Him. In essence, God is the Alpha, the Omega, and the ongoing reality of all that is.

**Why does Paul conclude such a detailed theological argument (Romans 9-11) with a doxology?**

Answer: Paul concludes his intricate discussion on God's plan for Israel and the Gentiles with a doxology because, having explored the depths of divine wisdom, justice, and mercy, he reaches a point where human reason can go no further. The mysteries of God's ways are "unsearchable" and His "judgments untraceable" ([Romans 11:33](/romans/11-33 "Romans 11:33 - The Depth of God's Wisdom")). The only fitting response to such overwhelming truth and unfathomable wisdom is humble adoration and praise. It signifies that the ultimate end of all theological inquiry is not intellectual mastery, but worship. It is an acknowledgment that God's plan, though complex, is perfect and ultimately redounds to His glory, transcending human comprehension or critique.

**Does Romans 11:36 imply the Trinity?**

Answer: While [Romans 11:36](/romans/11-36 "Romans 11:36 - God as Source, Means, and End") does not explicitly name the persons of the Trinity, its triadic structure ("of him, and through him, and to him") has often been seen by theologians as consistent with, and perhaps even implicitly pointing towards, Trinitarian theology. In other New Testament passages, the Son (Jesus Christ) is clearly identified as the agent "through whom" all things were created and sustained (e.g., [John 1:3](/john/1-3 "John 1:3 - All Things Made Through Him"), [Colossians 1:16](/colossians/1-16 "Colossians 1:16 - Christ as Creator")), and the Holy Spirit is the divine power "of whom" believers are born and through whom they live. While the primary "him" in this verse refers to God the Father (in context of Paul's preceding argument), the comprehensive nature of the statement aligns perfectly with the New Testament's revelation of God as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, all united in their work of creation, sustenance, and redemption, bringing glory to the one God.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Romans 11:36, while a doxology to God in general, finds its profoundest fulfillment and clearest expression in the person and work of Jesus Christ. He is the ultimate "through him" by whom all things exist and are sustained. The New Testament consistently portrays Christ as the divine agent of creation, as seen in [John 1:3](/john/1-3 "John 1:3 - All Things Made Through Him"), which states, "All things were made through him, and without him was not anything made that was made." Similarly, [Colossians 1:16-17](/colossians/1-16-17 "Colossians 1:16-17 - Christ as Creator and Sustainer") declares, "For by him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible... all things were created through him and for him. And he is before all things, and in him all things hold together." Furthermore, Christ is the means by which humanity is reconciled "to him" (God), as highlighted in [2 Corinthians 5:18-19](/2_corinthians/5-18-19 "God Reconciling the World Through Christ") and [Colossians 1:20](/colossians/1-20 "Colossians 1:20 - Reconciliation Through Christ"). His life, death, and resurrection are the ultimate demonstration of God's wisdom and power, bringing glory to God the Father. Indeed, the entire redemptive narrative culminates in Christ, through whom God's eternal purpose is realized and to whom all glory ultimately redounds, as every knee will one day bow and every tongue confess that "Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father" ([Philippians 2:10-11](/philippians/2-10-11 "Philippians 2:10-11 - Every Knee Shall Bow to Christ")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

1 Corinthians 8:6

But to us [there is but] one God, the Father, of whom [are] all things, and we in him; and one Lord Jesus Christ, by whom [are] all things, and we by him.

Colossians 1:15

Who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature:

Colossians 1:17

And he is before all things, and by him all things consist.

Hebrews 2:10

¶ For it became him, for whom [are] all things, and by whom [are] all things, in bringing many sons unto glory, to make the captain of their salvation perfect through sufferings.

1 Timothy 1:17

Now unto the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only wise God, [be] honour and glory for ever and ever. Amen.

Romans 16:27

To God only wise, [be] glory through Jesus Christ for ever. Amen.

Jude 1:25

To the only wise God our Saviour, [be] glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and ever. Amen.