King James Version

What Does Romans 5:4 Mean?

Romans 5:4 in the King James Version says “And patience, experience; and experience, hope:” — study this verse from Romans chapter 5 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

“And patience, experience; and experience, hope:”

Romans 5:4 · KJV

Hope

Context

2

By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God.

3

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

4

And patience, experience; and experience, hope:

5

And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us.

6

For when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly. in due time: or, according to the time

Read Romans 5 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
And patience, experience; and experience, hope—Paul traces a progressive chain: ὑπομονή (hypomonē, patient endurance) produces δοκιμή (dokimē, proven character/tested genuineness), which generates ἐλπίς (elpis, hope). The term dokimē derives from δοκιμάζω, to test metals for purity—trials refine believers, burning away dross and proving genuine faith (1 Peter 1:7).

The progression is not automatic but reflects God's sanctifying work through affliction. Each link strengthens the next: trials test faith, testing proves genuineness, proven character deepens eschatological hope. This is the opposite of worldly disappointment, where unmet hopes produce cynicism. Christian suffering paradoxically intensifies hope by demonstrating God's sustaining grace and conforming believers to Christ's sufferings (Philippians 3:10).

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

The concept of dokimē (tested character) would resonate with Roman readers familiar with metallurgy and the extensive testing required for coins to bear imperial stamp. Paul appropriates this imagery for spiritual formation: God's 'testing' doesn't discover unknown flaws (as if He were uncertain) but refines believers and demonstrates to them and the watching world the genuineness of their faith. The apostolic expectation was not comfort but conformity to Christ through suffering.

Reflection Questions

  1. Can you identify a past trial that, viewed retrospectively, proved your faith genuine and deepened your hope?
  2. Why does suffering tend to produce either deeper hope or complete despair—what makes the difference?
  3. How does understanding trials as divine refining rather than random misfortune change your response to hardship?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 8 words
ἡ1 of 8
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

δὲ2 of 8

“And”

G1161

but, and, etc

ὑπομονὴ3 of 8

“patience”

G5281

cheerful (or hopeful) endurance, constancy

δοκιμὴ4 of 8

“experience”

G1382

test (abstractly or concretely); by implication, trustiness

ἡ5 of 8
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

δὲ6 of 8

“And”

G1161

but, and, etc

δοκιμὴ7 of 8

“experience”

G1382

test (abstractly or concretely); by implication, trustiness

ἐλπίδα8 of 8

“hope”

G1680

expectation (abstractly or concretely) or confidence

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Romans. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Romans 5:4 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Romans 5:4 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

1 Peter 5:10James 1:122 Corinthians 4:8-121 Peter 1:6-72 Timothy 4:16-18Psalms 71:18-24

Test Your Knowledge

Romans 5 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapterRomans Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

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