Romans 8:18

KJV

For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time [are] not worthy [to be compared] with the glory which shall be revealed in us.

KJV (with Strong's)

For {G1063} I reckon {G3049} that {G3754} the sufferings {G3804} of this present {G3568} time {G2540} are not {G3756} worthy {G514} to be compared with {G4314} the glory {G1391} which shall {G3195} be revealed {G601} in {G1519} us {G2248}.

Complete Jewish Bible

I don’t think the sufferings we are going through now are even worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed to us in the future.

Berean Standard Bible

I consider that our present sufferings are not comparable to the glory that will be revealed in us.

American Standard Version

For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed to us-ward.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Romans 8:18 presents a profound declaration from the Apostle Paul, offering immense comfort and an eternal perspective to believers navigating the trials of life. It asserts with unwavering conviction that the hardships, afflictions, and pains experienced in this present existence are utterly insignificant and incomparable when weighed against the magnificent, transformative glory that awaits and will be revealed in those who are in Christ. This verse serves as a powerful anchor of hope, recalibrating the believer's focus from temporal suffering to an immeasurable, future divine manifestation.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Romans 8:18 is strategically positioned within the triumphant eighth chapter of Paul's letter to the Romans, a chapter often hailed as the pinnacle of Christian theology concerning the Holy Spirit's work and the believer's glorious destiny. It immediately follows Paul's profound assertion in [Romans 8:17](/romans/8-17 "Romans 8:17 - Heirs with Christ") that believers are "heirs of God and joint-heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer with Him, that we may also be glorified together." This preceding verse establishes the inseparable link between present suffering and future glory, setting the stage for the comparison made in [Romans 8:18](/romans/8-18 "Romans 8:18 - Present Sufferings and Future Glory"). The verse then transitions seamlessly into Paul's broader discussion of the [groaning of creation](/romans/8-19-23 "Romans 8:19-23 - The Groaning Creation Awaiting Redemption"), which eagerly anticipates the full revelation of the "sons of God," further underscoring the eschatological hope that permeates the chapter. Thus, 8:18 serves as a pivotal bridge, connecting the personal experience of suffering to the cosmic expectation of redemption and glorification.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Paul wrote to the church in Rome, a diverse community of Jewish and Gentile believers living in the heart of the Roman Empire. While the severe, state-sponsored persecutions under Nero (which would come later) had not yet fully erupted, Christians in Rome would have already faced social ostracism, suspicion, and potential economic hardship due to their refusal to participate in pagan worship or the imperial cult. They were a minority group, often misunderstood and maligned. Furthermore, suffering was a universal human experience in the ancient world, exacerbated by a lack of modern medicine, frequent wars, and societal instability. For Paul himself, suffering was a constant companion in his ministry, as evidenced by his extensive lists of afflictions (e.g., [2 Corinthians 11:23-28](/2_corinthians/11-23-28 "2 Corinthians 11:23-28 - Paul's Sufferings")). The concept of "glory" (doxa) in the Greco-Roman world often referred to public honor, reputation, or visible splendor, while in the Jewish tradition, it primarily referred to the manifest presence and inherent majesty of God (the *kabod*). Paul skillfully redefines these concepts through a Christian lens, presenting a future glory that transcends earthly recognition and is intrinsically tied to God's redemptive work.
* **Key Themes:** Romans 8:18 contributes significantly to several overarching themes within Romans and the broader Pauline corpus. One central theme is the **Christian's Eschatological Hope**, emphasizing that the ultimate fulfillment of God's promises lies in the future, providing a powerful motivation for perseverance in the present. This hope is not wishful thinking but a certain expectation based on God's faithfulness. Another crucial theme is the **Redemptive Purpose of Suffering**. Paul consistently teaches that suffering is not meaningless but can be a means through which God refines believers, aligns them with Christ's own experience (as noted in [Romans 8:17](/romans/8-17 "Romans 8:17 - Suffering with Christ")), and prepares them for future glory. This verse also highlights the theme of **Divine Adoption and Inheritance**, building on the idea that believers are truly God's children ([Romans 8:14-16](/romans/8-14-16 "Romans 8:14-16 - Spirit of Adoption")), destined for an unimaginable inheritance that includes participation in Christ's glory. Finally, it underscores the **Supremacy of God's Future Plan**, asserting that no present hardship can diminish the magnitude of what God has prepared for His people, a sentiment echoed in [2 Corinthians 4:17](/2_corinthians/4-17 "2 Corinthians 4:17 - Eternal Weight of Glory"), which speaks of a "far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory."

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **reckon (Greek, _logízomai'_):** This verb (G3049) signifies to calculate, count, consider, or conclude after careful thought and deliberation. Paul is not merely expressing a feeling or a casual opinion; he is presenting a reasoned, theological conclusion derived from a careful weighing of present realities against future certainties. It implies a deliberate mental process of assessment, leading to a firm conviction.
* **sufferings (Greek, _páthēma'_):** This noun (G3804) refers to something undergone, hardship, or pain. It encompasses a wide range of afflictions, including persecutions, physical pain, emotional distress, and the general difficulties inherent in living in a fallen world. It speaks to the real, tangible experiences of hardship that believers face.
* **glory (Greek, _dóxa'_):** This noun (G1391) denotes splendor, majesty, honor, praise, or worship. In a theological context, it often refers to the manifest presence and inherent worth of God. Here, it describes the magnificent, divine radiance and honor that will be fully revealed in and through believers, transforming them and elevating them to a state of profound honor and communion with God.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"For I reckon":** Paul begins with a personal, authoritative declaration, indicating a settled conviction based on divine truth and spiritual insight. His use of "reckon" (logízomai) emphasizes a deliberate, reasoned calculation, not a dismissive or naive optimism. He has weighed the evidence and arrived at a firm conclusion.
* **"that the sufferings of this present time":** This clause acknowledges the undeniable reality of hardship and pain that characterize human existence in the current age. "Present time" (kairós, G2540, and nŷn, G3568) refers to the temporal, finite period before Christ's return and the full establishment of God's kingdom. Paul does not minimize or deny the severity of these sufferings.
* **"[are] not worthy [to be compared] with":** This is the crux of Paul's argument, asserting an absolute qualitative and quantitative disparity. The Greek word for "worthy" (áxios, G514) means deserving or comparable. Paul states that no amount or intensity of present suffering can even begin to measure up to, or be considered equivalent to, the future glory. The phrase "to be compared with" (prós, G4314) reinforces this stark contrast, highlighting the immeasurable difference between the two realities.
* **"the glory which shall be revealed in us":** This climactic phrase points to the future, eschatological hope of believers. "Glory" (dóxa, G1391) signifies divine splendor and majesty. The verb "shall be revealed" (méllō, G3195, and apokalýptō, G601) indicates a certain future event, an unveiling or disclosure that is imminent and assured. Crucially, this glory is not merely *for* us, but "in us" (eis hēmâs, G1519, G2248), suggesting an internal transformation and manifestation of God's own character and splendor through His redeemed people, making them active participants in and recipients of this divine revelation.

#### Literary Devices
Romans 8:18 is rich in rhetorical power, employing several literary devices to convey its profound message. The most prominent is **Antithesis**, creating a stark contrast between "the sufferings of this present time" and "the glory which shall be revealed in us." This juxtaposition highlights the vast, incomparable difference between the temporal and the eternal, the painful and the glorious. Paul also utilizes **Hyperbole** in his declaration that sufferings are "not worthy to be compared" with future glory. While literally true in a spiritual sense, the language is intentionally emphatic to underscore the immense magnitude of the promised glory, making the present trials seem utterly insignificant by comparison. Furthermore, the phrase "glory which shall be revealed *in us*" functions as a powerful **Metaphor** or **Symbolism**. It's not merely an external reward but an internal transformation and manifestation of God's character and splendor through His redeemed people, suggesting a profound change in their very being. Finally, the verse is part of Paul's broader **Rhetorical Argumentation**, where he systematically builds a logical and theological case for the Christian's assured hope, moving from justification to sanctification and ultimately to glorification, with this verse serving as a pivotal statement of encouragement and perspective.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Romans 8:18 stands as a cornerstone of Christian eschatology and the theology of suffering, deeply intertwining the believer's present experience with their future hope. It underscores the biblical truth that suffering, while real and painful, is not the final word for God's children. Instead, it is a temporary, preparatory stage that precedes an immeasurable and eternal glory. This perspective transforms suffering from a meaningless burden into a purposeful crucible, refining faith and aligning believers more closely with Christ, who Himself endured suffering before entering His glory. The verse also highlights the active nature of God's future work, emphasizing that glory will not just be *given* to us, but *revealed in* us, signifying a profound transformation and participation in the divine nature. This future glory is the ultimate fulfillment of God's redemptive plan, far surpassing any earthly experience or tribulation.

* [2 Corinthians 4:17](/2_corinthians/4-17 "2 Corinthians 4:17 - Light Affliction, Eternal Weight of Glory")
* [1 Peter 1:6-7](/1_peter/1-6-7 "1 Peter 1:6-7 - Trials for the Testing of Faith")
* [Philippians 3:20-21](/philippians/3-20-21 "Philippians 3:20-21 - Our Citizenship and Transformed Bodies")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Romans 8:18 offers a profound spiritual anchor for every believer, calling us to cultivate an eternal perspective amidst the inevitable challenges of life. It challenges us to reframe our understanding of suffering, not as an ultimate defeat or a sign of God's absence, but as a temporary, purposeful prelude to an incomparably greater reality. This verse empowers us to endure with a resilient hope, knowing that our current struggles, no matter how intense, are fleeting when weighed against the eternal weight of glory that God has prepared. It encourages a shift in focus from the temporal pain to the promised splendor, fostering inner peace and steadfastness. By internalizing this truth, we can find meaning even in our darkest moments, understanding that God is actively working through our trials to refine us and prepare us for the full manifestation of His glory in us. This perspective cultivates gratitude, strengthens faith, and motivates us to live with purpose, knowing that our ultimate reward and true home are found in the glorious presence of God, where every tear will be wiped away and suffering will be no more.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does understanding the "incomparable" nature of future glory change your perspective on current difficulties?**
* **In what ways might your present "sufferings" be preparing you for the "glory which shall be revealed in you"?**
* **What practical steps can you take to "reckon" or deliberately consider the weight of future glory in your daily life?**

### FAQ

**What kind of "sufferings" is Paul referring to in Romans 8:18?**

Answer: Paul's reference to "sufferings of this present time" is comprehensive, encompassing a wide range of hardships faced by believers. This includes the general afflictions common to all humanity in a fallen world (illness, loss, disappointment), as well as specific trials experienced by Christians due to their faith. Paul himself endured immense suffering for the gospel, including persecutions, imprisonments, beatings, and shipwrecks, as detailed in [2 Corinthians 11:23-28](/2_corinthians/11-23-28 "2 Corinthians 11:23-28 - Paul's Extensive Sufferings"). For the Roman believers, this would have included social ostracism, economic disadvantage, and the threat of persecution for not conforming to Roman religious practices. Ultimately, it refers to any pain, hardship, or affliction that believers undergo in this temporal existence before the full realization of God's kingdom.

**What does "the glory which shall be revealed in us" mean?**

Answer: This phrase points to the ultimate culmination of God's redemptive work in believers. "Glory" (dóxa) signifies the manifest presence, splendor, and majesty of God. When it is "revealed in us," it means several things: it refers to the **resurrection of our bodies** into an imperishable, glorious state, as discussed in [1 Corinthians 15:43](/1_corinthians/15-43 "1 Corinthians 15:43 - Resurrection in Glory"); it speaks to the **full realization of our adoption as children of God** and our spiritual inheritance, where our true identity as God's beloved children is fully manifested; and it implies a **transformation of our very being** to reflect the character and likeness of Christ, making us participants in His divine glory. It is not merely an external reward, but an internal, transformative indwelling and manifestation of God's own splendor through His redeemed people, making us radiant reflections of His majesty. This is the ultimate hope and destiny of every believer, far surpassing any earthly experience.

**How can present sufferings be "not worthy to be compared" with future glory?**

Answer: The "not worthy to be compared" (áxios prós) emphasizes an absolute qualitative and quantitative disparity between the temporary nature and finite intensity of human suffering and the eternal, infinite magnitude of God's promised glory. Paul's "reckoning" (logízomai) is a divine calculation that transcends human logic. Present sufferings, no matter how severe, are finite in duration and limited in scope. Future glory, by contrast, is eternal, boundless, and encompasses perfect joy, peace, and communion with God. It involves a complete redemption of body and soul, a new heaven and new earth where there is no more pain or sorrow ([Revelation 21:4](/revelation/21-4 "Revelation 21:4 - No More Tears or Pain")). From an eternal perspective, even the longest and most intense earthly suffering is but "a light momentary affliction" that is "preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison," as articulated in [2 Corinthians 4:17](/2_corinthians/4-17 "2 Corinthians 4:17 - Light Affliction, Eternal Weight of Glory"). The sheer disproportion between the two makes any comparison futile; the glory simply overwhelms and eclipses all suffering.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Romans 8:18 finds its ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ, for His path of suffering leading to glory is the prototype and guarantee of our own. Christ Himself endured the ultimate "sufferings of this present time"—the cross, rejection, and separation from God—yet these were "not worthy to be compared" with the resurrection glory and exaltation He received at the right hand of the Father ([Philippians 2:8-9](/philippians/2-8-9 "Philippians 2:8-9 - Christ's Humiliation and Exaltation")). Our future glory is entirely dependent on and derived from His. As "joint-heirs with Christ" ([Romans 8:17](/romans/8-17 "Romans 8:17 - Joint-Heirs with Christ")), we are called to share in His sufferings, knowing that this is the very path to sharing in His glory. The "glory which shall be revealed in us" is nothing less than our participation in Christ's own resurrected and glorified humanity. He is the "firstborn among many brethren" ([Romans 8:29](/romans/8-29 "Romans 8:29 - Conformed to the Image of His Son")), and we are being conformed to His image, which includes His glorious state. Our hope of future glory is secured by His triumph over sin and death, and His promise to return and transform our lowly bodies to be like His glorious body ([Philippians 3:20-21](/philippians/3-20-21 "Philippians 3:20-21 - Our Citizenship and Transformed Bodies")). Thus, Romans 8:18 is not merely a statement about future hope, but a profound declaration of our union with Christ, whose suffering and glory are the very foundation and pattern for our own.

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

2 Corinthians 4:17

For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding [and] eternal weight of glory;

2 Corinthians 4:18

While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen [are] temporal; but the things which are not seen [are] eternal.

1 Peter 4:13

But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ's sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy.

1 Peter 1:5

Who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.

1 Peter 1:7

That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ:

Matthew 5:11

Blessed are ye, when [men] shall revile you, and persecute [you], and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake.

Matthew 5:12

Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great [is] your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you.