King James Version
What Does Romans 5:8 Mean?
“But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.”
Context
6
For when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly. in due time: or, according to the time
7
For scarcely for a righteous man will one die: yet peradventure for a good man some would even dare to die.
8
But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.
9
Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him.
10
For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life.
Topics in This Verse
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(8) **Commendeth.**—The English word happily covers the double meaning of the Greek. The same word is used (1) of things in the sense of “prove” or “establish,” here and in Romans 3:5; (2) of persons in the sense of “recommend,” in Romans 16:1.
**His love.**—Strictly, *His own love.* The love both of God and of Christ is involved in the atonement. Its ultimate cause is the love of God, which is here in question. The love of Christ is evidenced by the fact of His death; the love of God is evidenced by the love of Christ.
**Toward us.**—The question whether these words should be taken as in the English version, “His love to, or toward, us,” or whether they should not rather be joined with “commendeth”—“commendeth to us”—is chiefly one of reading, the words being variously placed in the different authorities. The balance of evidence is close, but perhaps the translation may be allowed to remain as it is.
**Sinners.**—There is, of course, a stress upon this word in contrast to “the righteous man,” “the good man,” of the preceding verse.
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
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 5:8 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 5:8
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge