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Romans 5:3

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And not only [so], but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience;

And {G1161} not {G3756} only {G3440} so, but {G235} we glory {G2744} in {G1722} tribulations {G2347} also {G2532}: knowing {G1492} that {G3754} tribulation {G2347} worketh {G2716} patience {G5281};

But not only that, let us also boast in our troubles; because we know that trouble produces endurance,

Not only that, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance;

And not only so, but we also rejoice in our tribulations: knowing that tribulation worketh stedfastness;

Commentary

Romans 5:3 (KJV)

And not only [so], but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience;

Commentary

This verse comes immediately after Paul has described the amazing peace and access to God that believers have through Jesus Christ (Romans 5:1-2). The phrase "And not only [so]" connects this verse directly to the preceding promises.

Historical and Cultural Context

Paul was writing to believers in Rome, who were likely facing various forms of difficulty, potentially including social ostracism or pressure related to their faith in a pagan empire. The concept of "glorying" (rejoicing) in suffering was counter-cultural then, as it often is now.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Joy in Suffering: The core message is that believers can find joy and even "glory" or boast in their difficulties, not because suffering is pleasant, but because of its intended outcome.
  • Purpose of Tribulation: Tribulation is not seen as meaningless or purely punitive, but as having a productive purpose in the believer's life.
  • The Chain of Virtues: This verse introduces a key sequence that continues into the following verses (Romans 5:3-5): tribulation produces patience, patience produces experience (or character), and experience produces hope.

Linguistic Insights

The word translated "tribulations" (Greek: thlipsis) literally means pressure, squeezing, or crushing. It refers to affliction, distress, or suffering. The word "worketh" (Greek: katergazomai) means to work out, produce, effect, or accomplish. It implies bringing something about through effort or process. Tribulation is the means by which patience is produced.

Cross-references

Similar themes are found in James 1:2-4, which speaks of counting it all joy when falling into divers temptations (trials), knowing the trying of faith works patience. Also, 1 Peter 1:6-7 discusses greatly rejoicing in trials, that the trial of faith might be found unto praise.

Practical Application

Instead of viewing difficulties solely as obstacles or punishments, believers are encouraged to see them as opportunities for spiritual growth. Enduring trials patiently builds inner strength and stability, which is a crucial step in the development of Christian character and hope. This perspective transforms how we respond to hardship.

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 (May 20, 2025) 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

  • James 1:2 (79 votes)

    ¶ My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations;

  • James 1:3 (79 votes)

    Knowing [this], that the trying of your faith worketh patience.

  • James 1:12 (52 votes)

    Blessed [is] the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him.

  • 1 Peter 3:14 (42 votes)

    But and if ye suffer for righteousness' sake, happy [are ye]: and be not afraid of their terror, neither be troubled;

  • 2 Corinthians 12:9 (38 votes)

    And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.

  • 2 Corinthians 12:10 (38 votes)

    Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong.

  • 2 Corinthians 4:17 (35 votes)

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