Romans 8:21

Because the creature itself also shall be delivered from the bondage of corruption into the glorious liberty of the children of God.

Because {G3754} the creature {G2937} itself {G846} also {G2532} shall be delivered {G1659} from {G575} the bondage {G1397} of corruption {G5356} into {G1519} the glorious {G1391} liberty {G1657} of the children {G5043} of God {G2316}.

that it too would be set free from its bondage to decay and would enjoy the freedom accompanying the glory that God’s children will have.

that the creation itself will be set free from its bondage to decay and brought into the glorious freedom of the children of God.

that the creation itself also shall be delivered from the bondage of corruption into the liberty of the glory of the children of God.

Romans 8:21 is a profound verse within Paul's magnificent discourse in Romans chapter 8, which speaks to the future hope and glory awaiting believers and, remarkably, the entire created order.

Context

This verse is part of a larger passage (Romans 8:18-23) where Paul contrasts the present sufferings of believers with the incomparable glory that awaits them. He introduces the remarkable concept that not only humanity but also the non-human creation itself is eagerly awaiting the full revelation of God's children. The creation, according to Paul, is currently subject to "futility" and "bondage of corruption," not willingly, but because of the Fall (see Romans 8:20). This verse promises its eventual liberation, tying creation's destiny directly to the redemption of God's people.

Key Themes

  • Cosmic Redemption: This verse highlights that God's redemptive plan is not limited to humanity but extends to the entire physical universe. The creation itself will be freed from the decay and futility that resulted from sin.
  • Future Hope and Glory: It paints a picture of a future where all creation participates in the "glorious liberty" experienced by God's children. This speaks to a renewed earth, a new heaven and new earth, as depicted in Revelation 21:1.
  • Interconnectedness of Creation and Humanity: The destiny of the natural world is intrinsically linked to the revealing of God's sons and daughters. Creation's freedom is contingent upon and simultaneous with the full glorification of believers.
  • Deliverance from Corruption: The "bondage of corruption" refers to the pervasive effects of sin on the physical world, leading to decay, death, and natural disasters. The promise is a complete liberation from these destructive forces.

Linguistic Insights

The KJV phrase "the creature itself" comes from the Greek word ktisis (κτίσις), which broadly refers to "creation" or "the created order." This encompasses the entire non-human natural world—animals, plants, ecosystems, and even the cosmos. The "bondage of corruption" translates from douleias tēs phthoras (δουλείας τῆς φθορᾶς), emphasizing a state of slavery to decay, perishing, and futility, a direct consequence of the curse initiated in Genesis 3:17-19. The "glorious liberty" (eleutherian tēs doxēs) signifies a freedom that is characterized by, and participates in, the divine glory that will be revealed in God's children.

Practical Application

Romans 8:21 offers tremendous hope and perspective. In a world grappling with environmental degradation, natural disasters, and the apparent futility of existence, this verse assures us that creation's present state is not its final one. It reminds us of God's comprehensive plan of redemption, which extends beyond human souls to encompass the entire cosmos. This understanding should foster a greater appreciation for creation and encourage responsible stewardship, as we anticipate the day when both humanity and the natural world will fully experience the redemption of our bodies and the glorious liberty promised by God. It also underscores the profound significance of our own spiritual transformation, as our future glory is tied to the liberation of all creation.

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.

  • Revelation 22:3

    And there shall be no more curse: but the throne of God and of the Lamb shall be in it; and his servants shall serve him:

  • Revelation 22:5

    And there shall be no night there; and they need no candle, neither light of the sun; for the Lord God giveth them light: and they shall reign for ever and ever.

  • Acts 3:21

    Whom the heaven must receive until the times of restitution of all things, which God hath spoken by the mouth of all his holy prophets since the world began.

  • 2 Peter 3:13

    Nevertheless we, according to his promise, look for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness.

  • Revelation 21:1

    ¶ And I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away; and there was no more sea.

  • Romans 8:19

    For the earnest expectation of the creature waiteth for the manifestation of the sons of God.
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