Romans 8:16

The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God:

The Spirit {G4151} itself {G846} beareth witness {G4828} with our {G2257} spirit {G4151}, that {G3754} we are {G2070} the children {G5043} of God {G2316}:

The Spirit himself bears witness with our own spirits that we are children of God;

The Spirit Himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children.

The Spirit himself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are children of God:

Commentary

Context of Romans 8:16

Romans chapter 8 is a profound exposition of the believer's life in the Holy Spirit, contrasting it with the struggle under the law and the flesh. Leading up to verse 16, Paul discusses the freedom from condemnation for those in Christ Jesus (Romans 8:1), the life-giving power of the Spirit, and how believers are led by the Spirit, not the flesh. Verse 15 specifically introduces the concept of the Spirit of adoption, through whom believers cry, "Abba, Father." Romans 8:16 then provides the internal, spiritual confirmation of this adopted status, offering profound assurance to the believer.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Divine Assurance of Sonship: The primary message is the Holy Spirit's direct testimony to the believer's spirit, confirming their true identity as a child of God. This is not mere intellectual assent but a deep, spiritual conviction.
  • The Holy Spirit's Role: The verse highlights the Holy Spirit's active and personal role in the life of a believer, providing internal validation and comfort regarding their relationship with God.
  • Spiritual Adoption: This verse reinforces the powerful truth of adoption into God's family. Believers are not just forgiven sinners but are brought into an intimate, familial relationship with the Creator, becoming heirs with Christ (Romans 8:17).

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "beareth witness with" translates the Greek word symmartureō (συμμαρτυρέω). This compound word means "to bear witness together with" or "to testify jointly." It implies a corroboration, a shared testimony. It's not just the Spirit testifying *to* our spirit, but *with* our spirit, suggesting an internal congruence or resonance. Our renewed spirit, enabled by God, recognizes and affirms the Spirit's divine testimony, creating a powerful, undeniable inner conviction of our divine relationship.

Practical Application

For the modern believer, Romans 8:16 offers immense comfort and a solid foundation for their faith.

  • Combating Doubt: In moments of doubt or struggle concerning one's salvation or standing with God, this verse reminds us that the Holy Spirit Himself provides an internal, divine witness, reinforcing the truth found in Galatians 4:6.
  • Identity in Christ: It solidifies our identity not as mere creatures, but as beloved children of God. This understanding transforms how we see ourselves, our purpose, and our relationship with our Heavenly Father.
  • Foundation for Prayer: Knowing we are children of God, confirmed by the Spirit, empowers us to approach God with confidence and intimacy, crying "Abba, Father" (Romans 8:15), knowing we are heard and loved.
  • Motivation for Obedience: This assurance of sonship motivates a life of grateful obedience, not out of fear, but out of love and a desire to honor our Father.

This verse is a cornerstone for understanding the assurance of salvation and the intimate work of the Holy Spirit in the believer's life.

Note: If the commentary doesn’t appear instantly, please allow 2–5 seconds for it to load. It is generated by Gemini 2.5 Flash using a prompt focused on Biblical fidelity over bias. While the insights have been consistently reliable, we encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit.

Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • 1 John 4:13

    Hereby know we that we dwell in him, and he in us, because he hath given us of his Spirit.

  • 2 Corinthians 1:22

    Who hath also sealed us, and given the earnest of the Spirit in our hearts.

  • 2 Corinthians 5:5

    Now he that hath wrought us for the selfsame thing [is] God, who also hath given unto us the earnest of the Spirit.

  • Ephesians 1:13

    In whom ye also [trusted], after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise,

  • Romans 8:26

    ¶ Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered.

  • 1 John 3:19

    And hereby we know that we are of the truth, and shall assure our hearts before him.

  • 1 John 3:22

    And whatsoever we ask, we receive of him, because we keep his commandments, and do those things that are pleasing in his sight.
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