Romans 15:4

For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope.

For {G1063} whatsoever things {G3745} were written aforetime {G4270} were written {G4270} for {G1519} our {G2251} learning {G1319}, that {G2443} we {G2192} through {G1223} patience {G5281} and {G2532} comfort {G3874} of the scriptures {G1124} might have {G2192} hope {G1680}.

For everything written in the past was written to teach us, so that with the encouragement of the Tanakh we might patiently hold on to our hope.

For everything that was written in the past was written for our instruction, so that through endurance and the encouragement of the Scriptures, we might have hope.

For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that through patience and through comfort of the scriptures we might have hope.

Romans 15:4 (KJV)

For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope.

Context: Paul is concluding a section urging believers, particularly those who are "strong" in faith, to live in unity and acceptance with those who are "weak." He emphasizes the importance of pleasing others for their edification, following the example of Christ. This verse serves as a foundational principle, explaining why the Old Testament Scriptures ("whatsoever things were written aforetime") are relevant and valuable for guiding the conduct and strengthening the faith of New Testament believers.

Key Themes:

  • The enduring value and purpose of the Old Testament Scriptures for Christians.
  • Scripture as a source of instruction and teaching ("learning").
  • Scripture as a source of endurance ("patience") and encouragement ("comfort").
  • The ultimate result of engaging with Scripture: hope.

Linguistic Insight: The phrase "written aforetime" specifically refers to the Old Testament. The Greek word for "learning" (διδασκαλία - didaskalia) means teaching or instruction. "Patience" (ὑπομονή - hypomonē) denotes steadfastness, endurance, or perseverance, especially under trial. "Comfort" (παράκλησις - paraklēsis) can mean encouragement, exhortation, or consolation.

Significance & Application: This verse affirms the divine inspiration and continued relevance of the entire Bible. It teaches us that the historical accounts, laws, prophecies, and wisdom contained in the Old Testament are not just ancient texts but were preserved by God specifically for our instruction. By studying these Scriptures, we learn about God's character, His dealings with humanity, and the consequences of obedience and disobedience. This knowledge, combined with the examples of faith and endurance found within the text, provides us with the strength to persevere through our own challenges (patience) and offers deep encouragement and consolation (comfort), ultimately building a firm foundation for our hope in God's promises.

See also: 2 Timothy 3:16

Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • 1 Corinthians 10:11

    Now all these things happened unto them for ensamples: and they are written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the world are come.

  • 2 Timothy 3:16

    All scripture [is] given by inspiration of God, and [is] profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:

  • 2 Timothy 3:17

    That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.

  • Romans 4:23

    ¶ Now it was not written for his sake alone, that it was imputed to him;

  • Romans 4:24

    But for us also, to whom it shall be imputed, if we believe on him that raised up Jesus our Lord from the dead;

  • 2 Peter 1:20

    Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation.

  • 2 Peter 1:21

    For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake [as they were] moved by the Holy Ghost.

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