King James Version

What Does Romans 8:25 Mean?

Romans 8:25 in the King James Version says “But if we hope for that we see not, then do we with patience wait for it.” — study this verse from Romans chapter 8 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

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

Romans 8:25 · KJV

Hope

Context

23

And not only they, but ourselves also, which have the firstfruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, waiting for the adoption, to wit, the redemption of our body.

24

For we are saved by hope: but hope that is seen is not hope: for what a man seeth, why doth he yet hope for?

25

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

26

Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered.

27

And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God. because: or, that

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
But if we hope for that we see not, then do we with patience wait for it (ei de hò ou blépomen elpízomen, di' hupomonēs apekdechómetha)—The condition assumes reality: we do hope for unseen realities. Hupomonḗ ("patience") is not passive resignation but active endurance, steadfast perseverance under trial. It combines hupó ("under") and ménō ("remain")—staying under the weight without collapsing. Apekdéchomai ("wait for") is intensive form of "wait," indicating eager anticipation.

This patient waiting is Spirit-enabled, not natural temperament. Hope sustains endurance; endurance proves hope genuine. James 1:3-4 connects trial, endurance, and maturity. The Christian life is lived in tension between "already" (salvation secured) and "not yet" (salvation consummated). Patience isn't apathy but trust-filled waiting for God's timing, confident He will fulfill every promise.

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Historical & Cultural Context

The early church expected Christ's imminent return (Romans 13:11-12; 1 Thessalonians 4:15-17). As decades passed, some became impatient or skeptical (2 Peter 3:3-9). Peter responded: God's "delay" is patience, giving opportunity for repentance. Christian patience trusts God's timing while actively serving until Christ returns.

Reflection Questions

  1. What areas of life require patient waiting for God's promises to be fulfilled?
  2. How does hope produce patience rather than anxiety or despair when promises seem delayed?
  3. What's the relationship between patient endurance now and future glory (v. 18)?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 9 words
εἰ1 of 9

“if”

G1487

if, whether, that, etc

δὲ2 of 9

“But”

G1161

but, and, etc

ὃ3 of 9

“for that”

G3739

the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that

οὐ4 of 9

“not”

G3756

the absolute negative (compare g3361) adverb; no or not

βλέπομεν5 of 9

“we see”

G991

to look at (literally or figuratively)

ἐλπίζομεν6 of 9

“we hope”

G1679

to expect or confide

δι'7 of 9

“with”

G1223

through (in very wide applications, local, causal, or occasional)

ὑπομονῆς8 of 9

“patience”

G5281

cheerful (or hopeful) endurance, constancy

ἀπεκδεχόμεθα9 of 9

“then do we”

G553

to expect fully

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 8:25 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 8:25 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Romans 12:12Hebrews 10:36Psalms 27:14Lamentations 3:25-261 Thessalonians 1:3Hebrews 12:1-3

Test Your Knowledge

Romans 8 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapterRomans Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

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