Romans 5:2

KJV

By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God.

KJV (with Strong's)

By {G1223} whom {G3739} also {G2532} we have {G2192} access {G4318} by faith {G4102} into {G1519} this {G5026} grace {G5485} wherein {G1722}{G3739} we stand {G2476}, and {G2532} rejoice {G2744} in {G1909} hope {G1680} of the glory {G1391} of God {G2316}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Also through him and on the ground of our trust, we have gained access to this grace in which we stand; so let us boast about the hope of experiencing God’s glory.

Berean Standard Bible

through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we stand. And we rejoice in the hope of the glory of God.

American Standard Version

through whom also we have had our access by faith into this grace wherein we stand; and we rejoice in hope of the glory of God.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Romans 5:2 articulates the profound and multifaceted blessings that flow from being justified by faith in Jesus Christ, establishing the believer's secure standing in God's unmerited favor and inspiring a joyful, confident expectation of future divine glory. This verse highlights the mediatorial role of Christ, the instrumental nature of faith, and the present reality of grace, culminating in an unwavering hope that transcends present circumstances.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Romans 5:2 seamlessly continues the theological argument initiated in [Romans 5:1](/romans/5-1 "Romans 5:1 - Peace with God Through Justification"), which declares that "being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ." This immediate preceding verse sets the stage by establishing the foundational reality of peace, and [Romans 5:2](/romans/5-2 "Romans 5:2 - Access, Grace, and Hope") then elaborates on the *means* by which this peace is maintained and the *consequences* that flow from it. The broader context of [Romans 1-4](/romans/1-4 "Romans 1-4 - The Doctrine of Justification by Faith") meticulously constructs the doctrine of justification by faith, emphasizing humanity's universal sinfulness and God's righteous provision for salvation through Christ's atoning work. Thus, [Romans 5:2](/romans/5-2 "Romans 5:2 - Access, Grace, and Hope") is not an isolated statement but a crucial link in Paul's unfolding theological masterpiece, demonstrating the practical and experiential outworkings of a justified life.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Paul's letter to the Romans was written to a diverse church in the heart of the Roman Empire, comprising both Jewish and Gentile believers. This community faced internal tensions regarding the role of the Mosaic Law and external pressures from a pagan society. The concept of "access" (Greek: _prosagōgē_) would have resonated with Roman citizens familiar with the protocol of approaching emperors or high officials, where an intermediary was often required to grant an audience. The idea of "standing" (Greek: _histēmi_) in a secure position would also have been significant in a society where social status and patronage were paramount, implying a divinely granted, unshakeable standing that transcended earthly hierarchies. Furthermore, the emphasis on "hope" provided a counter-narrative to the often-fatalistic worldview of the ancient world, offering a firm assurance rooted in God's character rather than fickle human fortunes.
* **Key Themes:** [Romans 5:2](/romans/5-2 "Romans 5:2 - Access, Grace, and Hope") powerfully contributes to several overarching themes in Romans. Firstly, it underscores the **Sovereignty of God and the Efficacy of Christ's Work**, portraying Jesus as the sole mediator through whom believers gain access to God's favor. Secondly, it highlights the **Centrality of Faith**, not as a work, but as the instrumental means by which God's grace is apprehended, echoing the arguments in [Romans 3:28](/romans/3-28 "Romans 3:28 - Justification by Faith Alone"). Thirdly, the verse develops the theme of **Grace as a Permanent State**, moving beyond initial justification to describe an ongoing, secure dwelling in God's unmerited favor. Finally, it introduces the **Eschatological Hope of Glory**, presenting a future reality that provides profound joy and resilience in the present, a theme further explored in [Romans 8:18-30](/romans/8-18-30 "Romans 8:18-30 - Future Glory and Hope").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **access (Greek, _prosagōgḗ_):** This term, derived from a verb meaning "to lead or bring to," signifies an introduction or admission into the presence of someone important. In a cultural context, it evokes the image of being granted an audience with a king or a high dignitary, a privilege not easily obtained. For believers, it means Christ himself serves as the divine intermediary, leading us into the very presence of God, a privilege previously restricted or impossible for sinful humanity.
* **grace (Greek, _cháris_):** Beyond mere favor, _cháris_ encompasses the divine influence on the heart and its reflection in life, embodying God's unmerited kindness, benevolent disposition, and the spiritual benefits derived from it. In Romans 5:2, "this grace" refers to the entire sphere of God's saving work and ongoing favor into which believers are brought, a state of divine acceptance and blessing that is entirely undeserved yet freely given.
* **hope (Greek, _elpís_):** Unlike a mere wish or uncertain desire, _elpís_ in the New Testament denotes a confident expectation, a firm assurance of future good based on God's promises and character. It is an anticipation, usually with pleasure, of a certain future reality. Here, it refers to the sure expectation of participating in God's glory, a future certainty that fuels present joy.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"By whom also we have access by faith":** This clause identifies Jesus Christ ("By whom") as the exclusive and indispensable mediator through whom believers are granted direct, unhindered access to God. The phrase "by faith" specifies the instrumental means by which this access is apprehended and maintained, emphasizing that it is not by works or human merit but through trust and reliance on Christ's finished work.
* **"into this grace wherein we stand":** This segment describes the result of this access: a secure and permanent position within the sphere of God's unmerited favor. "This grace" points back to the saving work of God through Christ, and "wherein we stand" (a perfect tense verb in Greek) signifies a state of having been placed and remaining firm, indicating a stable, unwavering, and ongoing reality for the justified believer. It is not a fleeting visit but a settled dwelling.
* **"and rejoice in hope of the glory of God":** This final clause expresses the profound spiritual outcome and future orientation of the believer's justified state. The "rejoice" (Greek: _kaucháomai_) implies a boasting or exulting, a deep and confident joy. This joy is not based on present circumstances but on the "hope of the glory of God," a firm expectation of future participation in and manifestation of God's divine splendor and perfection, which serves as the ultimate culmination of salvation.

#### Literary Devices
Romans 5:2 employs several powerful literary devices to convey its profound theological truths. The concept of "access" functions as a **Metaphor**, drawing on the familiar ancient practice of gaining entry into the presence of a powerful dignitary. This metaphor vividly illustrates Christ's indispensable role as the one who ushers believers into God's presence, highlighting the privilege and intimacy of this relationship. The phrase "wherein we stand" employs a **Metaphor** of a secure and stable position, contrasting with any notion of precariousness or uncertainty in the believer's relationship with God. This imagery provides a strong sense of assurance and permanence. Furthermore, the structure of the verse moves from the *means* (Christ, faith) to the *present reality* (standing in grace) to the *future expectation* (rejoicing in hope of glory), creating a logical and progressive **Climax** that builds in theological significance and spiritual encouragement. The use of "rejoice" in the present tense, coupled with "hope of the glory of God," creates a powerful **Juxtaposition** of present experience and future certainty, emphasizing that the eschatological hope profoundly impacts the believer's current emotional and spiritual state.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Romans 5:2 is a profound theological statement that ties together the past act of justification, the present reality of grace, and the future hope of glory. It underscores the active and ongoing mediation of Jesus Christ, who not only secures our initial peace with God but also maintains our continuous access to His unmerited favor. This access, apprehended by faith, places believers in an unshakeable position, enabling them to face present trials with an enduring joy rooted in the certainty of God's ultimate plan for their glorification. The verse thus bridges the gap between forensic justification and experiential sanctification, demonstrating that the justified life is characterized by both a secure standing and a vibrant, future-oriented hope.

* [Ephesians 2:18](/ephesians/2-18 "Ephesians 2:18 - Access to the Father Through Christ")
* [Hebrews 4:16](/hebrews/4-16 "Hebrews 4:16 - Approach the Throne of Grace with Confidence")
* [Colossians 1:27](/colossians/1-27 "Colossians 1:27 - Christ in You, the Hope of Glory")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Romans 5:2 offers immense comfort and a robust foundation for Christian living. It reminds us that our standing before God is not dependent on our fluctuating performance or feelings, but on the finished work of Jesus Christ and our faith in Him. This secure position in grace should liberate us from anxiety about earning God's favor and empower us to live with confidence and boldness. The call to "rejoice in hope of the glory of God" challenges us to cultivate an eternal perspective, allowing the certainty of future glorification to shape our present attitudes and responses to life's challenges. When faced with suffering or uncertainty, this verse provides an anchor, directing our gaze beyond the immediate to the glorious destiny that awaits us, fostering a deep, abiding joy that is independent of circumstances. This truth should inspire a profound sense of gratitude and motivate us to live lives that reflect the immense privilege of our access to God.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does understanding Christ as the "by whom" for our access deepen your appreciation for His mediatorial role?**
* **In what ways does knowing you "stand" in grace provide security and peace in your daily life?**
* **How can the "hope of the glory of God" transform your perspective on present difficulties or suffering?**
* **What practical steps can you take to more consistently "rejoice" in this hope, even amidst challenges?**

### FAQ
**What does "access by faith" truly mean in this context?**

Answer: "Access by faith" means that Jesus Christ is the sole and sufficient means by which humanity can enter into a right relationship with God and continually approach His presence. The Greek word for "access" (prosagōgē) implies being led or introduced into the presence of a sovereign. This access is not earned through works or rituals, but is granted purely by God's grace and received through personal trust and reliance on Jesus Christ's atoning work on the cross. It signifies an open door, a permanent invitation to commune with God, made possible only through Christ's mediation, as highlighted in [Ephesians 3:12](/ephesians/3-12 "Ephesians 3:12 - Boldness and Access Through Faith").

**Is "standing in grace" a temporary or permanent state for believers?**

Answer: "Standing in grace" refers to a permanent and secure state for believers who have been justified by faith. The Greek verb for "stand" (hístēmi) is in the perfect tense, indicating an action completed in the past with ongoing results. This means believers have been placed into this state of grace and remain firmly established there. It's not a fleeting visit but a secure dwelling place in God's unmerited favor. This security is foundational to Christian assurance and perseverance, assuring believers that their position before God is fixed and unshakeable, not dependent on their daily performance but on Christ's finished work, as further supported by passages like [1 Peter 5:12](/1_peter/5-12 "1 Peter 5:12 - Stand Firm in the True Grace of God").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Romans 5:2 finds its ultimate fulfillment and profound meaning in the person and work of Jesus Christ. He is the "by whom" through whom all these blessings flow. Without Christ's atoning sacrifice, there would be no justification, no peace with God, and certainly no "access" to His grace. Christ is the new and living way, the very door through which believers enter into the divine presence ([John 14:6](/john/14-6 "John 14:6 - Jesus, the Way, the Truth, and the Life")). He is the one who, by His death and resurrection, broke down the dividing wall of hostility ([Ephesians 2:14](/ephesians/2-14 "Ephesians 2:14 - Christ Our Peace")), granting both Jew and Gentile "access in one Spirit to the Father" ([Ephesians 2:18](/ephesians/2-18 "Ephesians 2:18 - Access to the Father Through Christ")). Furthermore, Christ Himself is the "hope of glory"; His indwelling presence in believers is the guarantee and foretaste of their future glorification ([Colossians 1:27](/colossians/1-27 "Colossians 1:27 - Christ in You, the Hope of Glory")). Thus, the entire verse—from the means of access to the secure standing in grace and the joyful hope of glory—is inextricably linked to and made possible by the redemptive work and ongoing mediation of Jesus Christ, who is both the author and the perfecter of our faith ([Hebrews 12:2](/hebrews/12-2 "Hebrews 12:2 - Looking to Jesus, the Author and Finisher of Our Faith")).

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

Ephesians 2:18

For through him we both have access by one Spirit unto the Father.

Ephesians 3:12

In whom we have boldness and access with confidence by the faith of him.

1 Corinthians 15:1

¶ Moreover, brethren, I declare unto you the gospel which I preached unto you, which also ye have received, and wherein ye stand;

Romans 12:12

Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer;

1 Peter 3:18

¶ For Christ also hath once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh, but quickened by the Spirit:

2 Thessalonians 2:16

¶ Now our Lord Jesus Christ himself, and God, even our Father, which hath loved us, and hath given [us] everlasting consolation and good hope through grace,

Hebrews 3:6

But Christ as a son over his own house; whose house are we, if we hold fast the confidence and the rejoicing of the hope firm unto the end.