Romans 8:25

But if we hope for that we see not, [then] do we with patience wait for [it].

But {G1161} if {G1487} we hope {G1679} for that {G3739} we see {G991} not {G3756}, then do we {G553} with {G1223} patience {G5281} wait for {G553} it.

But if we continue hoping for something we don’t see, then we still wait eagerly for it, with perseverance.

But if we hope for what we do not yet see, we wait for it patiently.

But if we hope for that which we see not, then do we with patience wait for it.

Romans 8:25, a powerful verse within the profound eighth chapter of Romans, speaks directly to the nature of Christian hope. It underscores the reality that our deepest aspirations as believers are often for things not yet visible to the eye, requiring a steadfast and active waiting.

Context

This verse is situated within a broader discussion in Romans 8 concerning the suffering of the present time compared with the glory to be revealed, the work of the Holy Spirit, and the future redemption of creation. Paul describes how all creation groans (Romans 8:22) and even believers groan within themselves, eagerly awaiting their adoption and the redemption of their bodies (Romans 8:23). This longing is for a future reality that is promised but not yet fully realized, setting the stage for the necessity of hope and patience.

Key Themes

  • Hope in the Unseen: The verse highlights that true Christian hope is not based on what we can currently see or possess, but on the certain promises of God regarding future glory, redemption, and the new creation. This concept is foundational to faith itself, as described in Hebrews 11:1, "Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen."
  • Patience as Active Waiting: The KJV's "patience wait for [it]" signifies more than passive resignation. It implies an active, enduring perseverance while awaiting the fulfillment of God's promises. This is a characteristic mark of those who trust in God's faithfulness.
  • Future Fulfillment: Underlying the verse is the assurance that what is hoped for will indeed come to pass. The patience is not without purpose; it is anchored in the certainty of God's ultimate plan and the consummation of His kingdom.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek word translated as "patience" in this verse is hypomonē (ὑπομονή). This term is richer than mere passive waiting. It signifies a steadfast endurance, perseverance under trial, and a courageous constancy in the face of difficulties. It's the quality that enables a person to remain firm and unyielding in their faith and purpose, even when the fulfillment of their hope seems delayed or challenged. It suggests an active, unwavering commitment rather than a resigned idleness.

Practical Application

For believers today, Romans 8:25 offers immense encouragement and guidance:

  • Endurance in Trials: When facing difficulties, suffering, or seemingly unanswered prayers, this verse reminds us that our hope is fixed on something beyond our present circumstances. Our patience is a testament to our faith in God's timing and ultimate victory.
  • Living by Faith: It calls us to live by faith, not by sight, trusting in God's unseen hand and His future promises. This perspective helps us to not be discouraged by the temporary nature of this world's struggles.
  • Purposeful Waiting: Our waiting is not empty; it is filled with purpose—growing in character, strengthening our faith, and serving God while we anticipate the glorious future. This patient endurance is a vital aspect of the Christian journey, leading to spiritual maturity as highlighted in James 1:4.

In essence, Romans 8:25 teaches that Christian hope is a dynamic, enduring expectation of God's promised future, sustained by active patience, even when the desired outcome remains unseen.

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.

  • Romans 12:12

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

  • Hebrews 10:36

    For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise.

  • Psalms 27:14

    Wait on the LORD: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the LORD.

  • 1 Thessalonians 1:3

    Remembering without ceasing your work of faith, and labour of love, and patience of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ, in the sight of God and our Father;

  • Lamentations 3:25

    The LORD [is] good unto them that wait for him, to the soul [that] seeketh him.

  • Lamentations 3:26

    [It is] good that [a man] should both hope and quietly wait for the salvation of the LORD.

  • Psalms 130:5

    ¶ I wait for the LORD, my soul doth wait, and in his word do I hope.
← Back