Romans 8:36

KJV

As it is written, For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter.

KJV (with Strong's)

As {G2531} it is written {G1125},{G3754} For thy {G4675} sake {G1752} we are killed {G2289} all {G3650} the day long {G2250}; we are accounted {G3049} as {G5613} sheep {G4263} for the slaughter {G4967}.

Complete Jewish Bible

As the Tanakh puts it,

“For your sake we are being put to death all day long,
we are considered sheep to be slaughtered.”

Berean Standard Bible

As it is written: “For Your sake we face death all day long; we are considered as sheep to be slaughtered.”

American Standard Version

Even as it is written, For thy sake we are killed all the day long; We were accounted as sheep for the slaughter.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Romans 8:36, a direct quotation from Psalm 44:22, powerfully articulates the profound reality of suffering and persecution endured by believers for their faith. This verse underscores that commitment to Christ can lead to constant vulnerability, even death, portraying Christians as defenseless sheep destined for slaughter, yet it serves as a foundational premise for Paul's subsequent triumphant declaration of God's unyielding love and ultimate victory over all adversity.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is strategically placed at the climax of [Romans 8](/romans/8 "Romans 8 - Life in the Spirit"), a chapter renowned for its profound theological exposition on the security and assurance of believers in Christ. Immediately preceding it, [Romans 8:35](/romans/8-35 "Romans 8:35 - Nothing Can Separate Us") lists a series of formidable challenges—tribulation, distress, persecution, famine, nakedness, peril, or sword—that Paul asserts cannot separate believers from the love of Christ. Verse 36, by quoting [Psalm 44:22](/psalms/44-22 "Psalm 44:22 - A Lament of Suffering"), acknowledges the grim reality that these threats are not hypothetical but are actively experienced, often leading to martyrdom. It sets the stage for the triumphant crescendo of [Romans 8:37-39](/romans/8-37-39 "Romans 8:37-39 - More Than Conquerors Through Christ's Love"), where Paul declares that in all these things, believers are "more than conquerors." Thus, the verse functions as a sobering acknowledgment of present suffering that magnifies the subsequent declaration of ultimate, Christ-secured victory.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Paul's audience, particularly in Rome, faced significant pressures. While widespread, systematic Roman persecution of Christians had not yet fully begun in the intensity that would characterize later centuries (e.g., under Nero), local and sporadic persecution was already a reality. Christians were often misunderstood, accused of various crimes (like cannibalism for communion, or atheism for rejecting Roman gods), and faced social ostracism, economic hardship, and even violence from both Roman authorities and hostile Jewish factions. The imagery of "sheep for the slaughter" would resonate deeply with a people familiar with animal sacrifice and the vulnerability of livestock. Furthermore, the Old Testament quote from [Psalm 44](/psalms/44 "Psalm 44 - A National Lament") would evoke the historical suffering of Israel, who often faced oppression and death despite their covenant faithfulness, thereby connecting the contemporary plight of Christians to the historical narrative of God's suffering people.

* **Key Themes:** Romans 8:36 contributes to several overarching themes within Romans and the broader Pauline corpus. It starkly highlights the theme of **Suffering for Christ**, emphasizing that faithfulness to the gospel does not exempt believers from hardship, but rather often invites it, even to the point of death, as seen in the experiences of the early church and foretold by Jesus in [Matthew 10:22](/matthew/10-22 "Matthew 10:22 - Hated for My Name's Sake"). The quotation from [Psalm 44:22](/psalms/44-22 "Psalm 44:22 - A Lament of Suffering") reinforces the theme of **Identification with God's Suffering People**, drawing a direct parallel between the experiences of Old Testament Israel and New Testament believers, suggesting a continuity in the experience of those who bear God's name. Finally, the verse subtly introduces the theme of **Divine Sovereignty Amidst Adversity**, as the suffering is endured "for thy sake," implying a purpose and a divine allowance, which ultimately serves to magnify God's love and power as articulated in the subsequent verses of [Romans 8](/romans/8 "Romans 8 - Life in the Spirit").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **written (Greek, _gráphō'_):** This primary verb signifies "to grave" or "to write," and figuratively, "to describe." Its use here, "As it is written," functions as a formulaic introduction to a scriptural quotation, indicating that Paul is appealing to the authority of the Old Testament (specifically [Psalm 44:22](/psalms/44-22 "Psalm 44:22 - A Lament of Suffering")) to validate the experience of suffering among believers. It underscores the continuity of God's redemptive narrative and the enduring truth of His word.
* **killed (Greek, _thanatóō'_):** Derived from the word for "death" (thanatos), this verb means "to kill" literally or figuratively, "to put to death," or "to mortify." In this context, it refers to the literal experience of martyrdom or the constant threat of death faced by believers. It conveys the extreme vulnerability and mortal danger inherent in living faithfully for Christ in a hostile world, highlighting the ultimate sacrifice some are called to make.
* **accounted (Greek, _logízomai'_):** This middle voice verb means "to take an inventory," "to estimate," "to reckon," or "to impute." Here, it indicates that believers are perceived or treated "as sheep for the slaughter." It's not that they literally *are* sheep, but that they are *regarded* or *counted* as such—vulnerable, defenseless, and destined for sacrifice. This word emphasizes the societal perception and the practical reality of their precarious position.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"As it is written,"**: This introductory phrase, _kathōs gegraptai_ in Greek, is a standard formula used by New Testament authors to introduce a direct quotation from the Old Testament, signaling its divine authority and relevance. Here, it points to [Psalm 44:22](/psalms/44-22 "Psalm 44:22 - A Lament of Suffering"), establishing a continuity between the suffering of ancient Israel and that of early Christians.
* **"For thy sake we are killed all the day long;"**: This clause, directly from the Septuagint translation of [Psalm 44:22](/psalms/44-22 "Psalm 44:22 - A Lament of Suffering"), expresses the reason for the suffering: "for thy sake," meaning for the sake of God, or for the sake of Christ. The phrase "all the day long" (Greek: _holēn tēn hēmeran_) is a hyperbole signifying constant, unremitting exposure to mortal danger or the perpetual readiness for death. It portrays a life lived under the shadow of persecution, where death is a continuous possibility rather than a distant threat.
* **"we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter."**: This powerful simile further illustrates the vulnerability of believers. To be "accounted as sheep for the slaughter" means to be regarded or treated as defenseless animals led to their inevitable doom. It vividly conveys the lack of resistance, the innocent nature of the victims, and the grim certainty of their fate in the eyes of their persecutors. This imagery emphasizes not only the severity of the persecution but also the passive, sacrificial posture believers might be called to adopt.

#### Literary Devices
Paul's use of literary devices in [Romans 8:36](/romans/8-36 "Romans 8:36 - Accounted as Sheep for Slaughter") significantly enhances its impact. The most prominent is **Quotation**, specifically from [Psalm 44:22](/psalms/44-22 "Psalm 44:22 - A Lament of Suffering"). By quoting the Old Testament, Paul grounds the contemporary experience of Christian suffering in the historical narrative of God's people, lending it theological weight and demonstrating the continuity of divine purpose through different dispensations. This also serves as an **Allusion**, connecting the reader's understanding of Israel's lament to the church's present reality. Furthermore, the phrase "we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter" employs a vivid **Metaphor** (or Simile, given "as"). This imagery powerfully conveys the extreme vulnerability, defenselessness, and sacrificial nature of the believers' plight, evoking strong emotional resonance. The phrase "all the day long" is an example of **Hyperbole**, an exaggeration used for emphasis. It does not mean literally every moment of every day, but rather that the threat of death is constant, pervasive, and ever-present, highlighting the profound and continuous nature of the persecution endured by those who follow Christ.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Romans 8:36 serves as a stark reminder that the Christian life, while marked by divine love and assurance, is not immune to profound suffering and persecution. Theologically, it underscores the cost of discipleship and the reality that following Christ can lead to societal rejection and even martyrdom, echoing the suffering of Christ himself. This verse challenges any notion of a "prosperity gospel" that promises an easy, pain-free existence, instead aligning with the biblical truth that suffering is often an integral part of sanctification and identification with Christ. However, it is crucial to interpret this verse not as a statement of abandonment by God, but as a testament to the depth of commitment required and the paradoxical strength found in weakness, setting the stage for the triumphant declaration that follows regarding God's unshakeable love.

* [1 Peter 4:12-13](/1_peter/4-12-13 "1 Peter 4:12-13 - Suffering for Christ"): "Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: 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."
* [Matthew 10:28-31](/matthew/10-28-31 "Matthew 10:28-31 - Do Not Fear Those Who Kill the Body"): "And fear not them which kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul: but rather fear him which is able to destroy both soul and body in hell. Are not two sparrows sold for a farthing? and one of them shall not fall on the ground without your Father. But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear ye not therefore, ye are of more value than many sparrows."
* [Philippians 1:29](/philippians/1-29 "Philippians 1:29 - Suffering Granted for Christ's Sake"): "For unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for his sake."

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Romans 8:36 calls believers to a sober recognition of the potential cost of discipleship, reminding us that faithfulness to Christ may entail genuine hardship, persecution, and even the threat of death. In a world that often seeks comfort and ease, this verse serves as a powerful counter-narrative, challenging us to consider our readiness to endure suffering for the sake of the gospel. It invites us to cultivate a resilient faith that is not shaken by adversity but finds its strength in Christ's unwavering love. While the specific forms of "being killed all the day long" may differ across contexts—from overt martyrdom to social ostracism, professional setbacks, or verbal abuse—the principle remains: our identification with Christ may lead to opposition. This verse, however, is not meant to instill fear, but to prepare us for reality, knowing that such suffering is seen by God and does not diminish His love or our ultimate victory in Him. It encourages us to live with an eternal perspective, understanding that our present afflictions are temporary and serve a greater purpose in God's sovereign plan.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does understanding the potential for suffering, as described in Romans 8:36, shape your perspective on what it means to truly follow Christ?**
* **In what ways might you be "accounted as sheep for the slaughter" in your own context today, even if not facing literal death?**
* **How does the knowledge that suffering is endured "for thy sake" (for God's sake) change your response to trials and opposition?**

### FAQ
**Does Romans 8:36 mean that all Christians will face literal death or martyrdom?**

Answer: While Romans 8:36, by quoting [Psalm 44:22](/psalms/44-22 "Psalm 44:22 - A Lament of Suffering"), speaks of being "killed all the day long" and "accounted as sheep for the slaughter," it does not necessarily mean that every single Christian will face literal martyrdom. The phrase "all the day long" is a **hyperbole**, emphasizing the constant and pervasive nature of the threat or the readiness for it, rather than a literal twenty-four-hour execution. It signifies a life lived under the shadow of potential persecution and the willingness to lay down one's life for Christ. Historically and globally, many Christians have indeed faced martyrdom, and many still do. For others, the "killing" might be metaphorical, referring to the constant social, emotional, or spiritual "death" of self, reputation, or comfort that comes with faithfully following Christ in a hostile world. The verse highlights the *reality* and *potential* of extreme suffering for Christ's sake, reminding believers of the cost of discipleship and preparing them to endure, knowing that their suffering is seen and purposed by God.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Romans 8:36 finds its ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment not only in the shared experience of suffering with Christ but, more profoundly, in Christ Himself as the quintessential "Lamb for the slaughter." The imagery of "sheep for the slaughter" is a direct echo of the prophetic descriptions of the Suffering Servant in [Isaiah 53:7](/isaiah/53-7 "Isaiah 53:7 - The Suffering Servant"), who "was oppressed and He was afflicted, yet He opened not His mouth; like a lamb that is led to the slaughter, and like a sheep that before its shearers is silent, so He opened not His mouth." Jesus perfectly embodied this vulnerability and sacrificial obedience, willingly laying down His life "for our sake," as the ultimate atoning sacrifice for sin (cf. [John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God") and [1 Peter 1:18-19](/1_peter/1-18-19 "1 Peter 1:18-19 - Redeemed by Precious Blood")). Therefore, when believers are "killed all the day long" and "accounted as sheep for the slaughter," they are not just suffering *for* Christ, but also suffering *with* Christ, participating in His redemptive pattern of suffering leading to glory (cf. [Philippians 3:10](/philippians/3-10 "Philippians 3:10 - To Know Christ and the Power of His Resurrection")). Their vulnerability mirrors His, and their steadfastness, even unto death, becomes a testament to the power of His resurrection that enables them to be "more than conquerors" through Him who loved them ([Romans 8:37](/romans/8-37 "Romans 8:37 - More Than Conquerors")).

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

Psalms 44:22

Yea, for thy sake are we killed all the day long; we are counted as sheep for the slaughter.

Isaiah 53:7

He was oppressed, and he was afflicted, yet he opened not his mouth: he is brought as a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before her shearers is dumb, so he openeth not his mouth.

1 Corinthians 15:30

And why stand we in jeopardy every hour?

2 Corinthians 4:10

Always bearing about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our body.

2 Corinthians 4:11

For we which live are alway delivered unto death for Jesus' sake, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our mortal flesh.

1 Corinthians 4:9

For I think that God hath set forth us the apostles last, as it were appointed to death: for we are made a spectacle unto the world, and to angels, and to men.

Acts 8:32

The place of the scripture which he read was this, He was led as a sheep to the slaughter; and like a lamb dumb before his shearer, so opened he not his mouth: