Romans 16:20

KJV

And the God of peace shall bruise Satan under your feet shortly. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ [be] with you. Amen.

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G1161} the God {G2316} of peace {G1515} shall bruise {G4937} Satan {G4567} under {G5259} your {G5216} feet {G4228} shortly {G1722}{G5034}. The grace {G5485} of our {G2257} Lord {G2962} Jesus {G2424} Christ {G5547} be with {G3326} you {G5216}. Amen {G281}.

Complete Jewish Bible

And God, the source of shalom, will soon crush the Adversary under your feet.

The grace of our Lord Yeshua be with you.

Berean Standard Bible

The God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you.

American Standard Version

And the God of peace shall bruise Satan under your feet shortly. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Romans 16:20 serves as a powerful concluding benediction in Paul's letter, offering the Roman believers a profound assurance of God's ultimate triumph over evil and a comforting reminder of His character as the "God of peace." Amidst warnings against division and false teaching, Paul promises that God will decisively crush Satan, implying the church's participation in this victory, and closes with a characteristic invocation of the unmerited grace of Jesus Christ, underscoring that all divine blessings flow from Him.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse appears at the very conclusion of Paul's magisterial epistle to the Romans, following an extensive theological treatise (chapters 1-11) and practical exhortations regarding Christian living and community (chapters 12-15). Chapter 16 is primarily dedicated to personal greetings, commendations of various individuals like Phoebe ([Romans 16:1-2](/romans/16-1-2 "Romans 16:1-2 - Phoebe Commended")), and final instructions. Significantly, just prior to this benediction, Paul issues a stern warning against those who cause divisions and offenses contrary to the doctrine the Roman Christians had learned, describing them as serving their own appetites rather than Christ ([Romans 16:17-18](/romans/16-17-18 "Romans 16:17-18 - Warning Against Divisive People")). Against this backdrop of potential internal strife and external spiritual opposition, Romans 16:20 provides a climactic word of hope, divine sovereignty, and ultimate triumph, reassuring believers that God is in control of the cosmic conflict.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The church in Rome was a diverse community, comprising both Jewish and Gentile believers, which often led to tensions and differing interpretations of Christian practice, as evidenced by Paul's discussions on eating meat and observing special days in [Romans 14](/romans/14 "Romans 14 - Principles of Christian Liberty"). Furthermore, the nascent Christian movement faced external pressures from both Jewish authorities and the pagan Roman society, which viewed their monotheistic faith and exclusive allegiance to Christ with suspicion. The concept of "peace" (eirēnē) would have resonated deeply in a city that prided itself on the *Pax Romana*, a peace enforced by imperial power. Paul's declaration of "the God of peace" offered a stark contrast, pointing to a divine, spiritual peace that transcends political stability and addresses the deeper spiritual conflict with Satan, the ultimate source of all disorder and opposition to God's reign.
* **Key Themes:** Romans 16:20 encapsulates several major theological and narrative themes found throughout Romans and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it powerfully reiterates the theme of **Divine Victory Over Evil**, echoing the ancient promise in [Genesis 3:15](/genesis/3-15 "Genesis 3:15 - The Protoevangelium"), often called the *protoevangelium*, where the seed of the woman would crush the serpent's head. This signifies God's absolute and decisive triumph over sin, death, and the forces of darkness, providing immense comfort to believers engaged in spiritual warfare, as described in [Ephesians 6:12](/ephesians/6-12 "Ephesians 6:12 - Spiritual Warfare"). Secondly, the title "**The God of Peace**" highlights God's essential character as the ultimate source of true peace, wholeness, and reconciliation, especially pertinent after Paul's warnings about division. This peace is not merely the absence of conflict but a state of comprehensive well-being and harmony that God alone provides. Thirdly, the phrase "under your feet" subtly introduces the theme of **Believer's Participation in Victory**, suggesting that believers, through their union with Christ, share in His triumph and authority over the enemy, aligning with the concept of being [more than conquerors through Him who loved us](/romans/8-37 "Romans 8:37 - More Than Conquerors"). Finally, the closing benediction emphasizes the indispensable theme of **Divine Grace**, affirming that all blessings, including peace and victory, flow from the unmerited favor of Jesus Christ.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **bruise (Greek, _syntríbō_):** This Greek word (G4937) signifies "to crush completely," "to shatter," or "to break in pieces." Its use here emphasizes the decisive, total, and incapacitating nature of Satan's defeat. It is not a mere injury or setback but a definitive and destructive blow, ensuring the enemy's ultimate powerlessness.
* **peace (Greek, _eirḗnē_):** Derived from a verb meaning "to join," this term (G1515) in its biblical context denotes far more than simply the absence of conflict. It encompasses wholeness, well-being, harmony, prosperity, and a comprehensive state of spiritual and physical flourishing. When God is called "the God of peace," it highlights His character as the one who brings order out of chaos, reconciliation out of strife, and ultimate shalom to His creation.
* **grace (Greek, _cháris_):** This word (G5485) refers to graciousness, favor, or unmerited divine influence upon the heart, which is then reflected in the life. In the context of the benediction, it underscores that the believers' standing, strength, victory, and peace are not earned but freely bestowed by God through Jesus Christ. It is the foundational principle of their salvation and ongoing sustenance.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And the God of peace":** This opening phrase identifies the divine agent of the promised action. God is not merely powerful, but specifically characterized as the source and sustainer of peace, a crucial attribute given the context of warnings against division within the church. This title assures believers that the one who acts on their behalf is inherently committed to their wholeness and well-being.
* **"shall bruise Satan under your feet shortly.":** This is the core promise of the verse. "Bruise" (syntríbō) indicates a complete and decisive crushing. Satan, the adversary, will be utterly defeated. The phrase "under your feet" signifies a position of subjugation and triumph, implying that believers, by virtue of their union with Christ, will participate in or experience the benefits of this victory. The adverb "shortly" (táchos) conveys an expectation of swiftness or imminence, emphasizing the certainty and timeliness of God's ultimate plan, even if the final consummation is yet to come.
* **"The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ [be] with you. Amen.":** This concluding benediction is a characteristic Pauline farewell. It functions as both a prayer and a declaration, invoking the unmerited favor and divine enablement that flows from Jesus Christ. This grace is the source of all spiritual blessings, including the peace and victory just promised. "Amen" (from the Hebrew for "firm" or "surely") affirms the truth and certainty of the preceding statement, sealing the promise and benediction with divine authority.

#### Literary Devices
Romans 16:20 employs several potent literary devices. The most prominent is **Allusion**, specifically to the *protoevangelium* in [Genesis 3:15](/genesis/3-15 "Genesis 3:15 - The Protoevangelium"), where God promises that the seed of the woman will bruise the serpent's head. By echoing this ancient prophecy, Paul connects the ultimate defeat of Satan to the ongoing work of God through Christ and His church, framing the current struggle within a grand, redemptive historical narrative. The phrase "God of peace" functions as a significant **Theological Title**, emphasizing God's inherent nature and His commitment to bring order and wholeness, particularly in contrast to the chaos sown by Satan and divisive individuals. Finally, the entire verse serves as a **Benediction**, a formal blessing or invocation of divine favor, characteristic of Paul's letter endings. This benediction not only conveys a blessing but also acts as a prophetic declaration, assuring the recipients of a future reality grounded in God's power and grace.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Romans 16:20 stands as a powerful theological statement affirming God's absolute sovereignty over all cosmic forces, particularly evil. It underscores the certainty of Satan's ultimate defeat, a victory already secured by Christ's death and resurrection, yet awaiting its full consummation. This promise is intrinsically linked to God's character as the "God of peace," highlighting that true peace is not merely the absence of conflict but a state of spiritual wholeness and divine order established through His triumph over all that opposes Him. The inclusion of "under your feet" subtly points to the believer's participation in Christ's victory, not through their own power, but as recipients and instruments of His already accomplished work, empowering them to stand firm against spiritual opposition.

* [Genesis 3:15](/genesis/3-15 "Genesis 3:15 - The Protoevangelium")
* [Luke 10:19](/luke/10-19 "Luke 10:19 - Authority Over Serpents and Scorpions")
* [Philippians 4:7](/philippians/4-7 "The Peace of God that Transcends Understanding")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Romans 16:20 offers profound encouragement and practical guidance for believers navigating the complexities of faith in a fallen world. In an age where spiritual opposition and internal divisions can feel overwhelming, this verse reminds us that the ultimate victory belongs to God. We are not engaged in a losing battle, nor are we left to our own devices; rather, we are assured that the "God of peace" is actively working to crush the very source of chaos and strife. This truth should instill courage, foster resilience, and cultivate an unwavering hope, knowing that our struggles are temporary and our triumph is certain through Christ. Furthermore, the closing benediction, "The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ [be] with you," serves as a vital anchor, reminding us that our strength, peace, and ability to overcome are not derived from our own efforts or merits, but flow entirely from God's unmerited favor. This calls us to a posture of humility and dependence, resting in His sovereign power and abundant grace in every circumstance.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the promise that "the God of peace shall bruise Satan under your feet shortly" impact your perspective on current spiritual battles or personal struggles?**
* **In what ways does understanding God as "the God of peace" challenge or comfort you when facing internal conflicts within the church or in your own life?**
* **How can you more fully embrace and live out the truth that your strength and victory come from "the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ," rather than your own efforts?**
* **What does "shortly" imply about God's timing and our posture of expectant faith in the face of unfulfilled promises?**

### FAQ

**What does "bruise Satan under your feet" mean, and how does it relate to believers?**

Answer: The phrase "bruise Satan under your feet" signifies a complete, decisive, and humiliating defeat of Satan. The Greek word for "bruise" (syntríbō) implies a crushing or shattering, not just a minor injury. This echoes the ancient prophecy in [Genesis 3:15](/genesis/3-15 "Genesis 3:15 - The Protoevangelium"), where the "seed of the woman" (ultimately Christ) would crush the serpent's head. For believers, this means that while God is the one who performs the crushing, the victory is experienced "under your feet." This implies that believers, by virtue of their union with Christ, share in His triumph and authority over the enemy. It's not that believers crush Satan in their own power, but that they stand on the ground of Christ's accomplished victory, participating in its benefits and exercising the authority He has given them over spiritual forces, as seen in [Luke 10:19](/luke/10-19 "Luke 10:19 - Authority Over Serpents and Scorpions"). It assures them that their spiritual adversary is ultimately defeated and will be fully subjugated.

**Why is God called "the God of peace" in this context, especially after warnings about division?**

Answer: Paul's designation of God as "the God of peace" is highly significant, particularly coming immediately after his strong warnings against those who cause divisions and offenses within the church in [Romans 16:17-18](/romans/16-17-18 "Romans 16:17-18 - Warning Against Divisive Individuals"). This title highlights God's essential character as the ultimate source of true peace, wholeness (shalom), and unity. In a community potentially fractured by internal strife and external pressures, Paul reminds them that the very God who will decisively defeat the cosmic enemy (Satan, the ultimate source of all discord) is also the one who brings reconciliation and harmony. This serves as both a comfort and a call to action: believers are to embody the peace of God in their relationships, knowing that He is working to overcome all forms of division and bring about His perfect order, as described in [Philippians 4:7](/philippians/4-7 "Philippians 4:7 - The Peace of God").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Romans 16:20 finds its ultimate and profound fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The promise that "the God of peace shall bruise Satan under your feet" is a direct echo of the *protoevangelium* in [Genesis 3:15](/genesis/3-15 "Genesis 3:15 - The Protoevangelium"), which prophesied that the "seed of the woman" would crush the serpent's head. Jesus, as the incarnate Son of God, is that promised "seed." His life, sacrificial death on the cross, and glorious resurrection constitute the decisive blow against Satan's power. Through His crucifixion, Christ disarmed the spiritual rulers and authorities, triumphing over them by the cross ([Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Colossians 2:15 - Triumph Over Principalities")). His death was specifically designed to "destroy him who has the power of death, that is, the devil" ([Hebrews 2:14](/hebrews/2-14 "Hebrews 2:14 - Jesus Destroys the Devil")). Therefore, the "bruising" of Satan is a past, accomplished fact in Christ's redemptive work, even though its full manifestation awaits His glorious return and the final judgment, when Satan will be cast into the lake of fire forever ([Revelation 20:10](/revelation/20-10 "Revelation 20:10 - Satan's Final Doom")). The "grace of our Lord Jesus Christ" that concludes the verse is the very means by which believers participate in this already-won victory, enabling them to stand firm and experience the peace that flows from His finished work.

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

Luke 10:19

Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall by any means hurt you.

1 John 3:8

He that committeth sin is of the devil; for the devil sinneth from the beginning. For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil.

Genesis 3:15

And I will put enmity between thee and the woman, and between thy seed and her seed; it shall bruise thy head, and thou shalt bruise his heel.

Malachi 4:3

And ye shall tread down the wicked; for they shall be ashes under the soles of your feet in the day that I shall do [this], saith the LORD of hosts.

Zechariah 10:5

¶ And they shall be as mighty [men], which tread down [their enemies] in the mire of the streets in the battle: and they shall fight, because the LORD [is] with them, and the riders on horses shall be confounded.

Revelation 12:10

And I heard a loud voice saying in heaven, Now is come salvation, and strength, and the kingdom of our God, and the power of his Christ: for the accuser of our brethren is cast down, which accused them before our God day and night.

Romans 15:33

Now the God of peace [be] with you all. Amen.