King James Version
What Does Romans 8:31 Mean?
“What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us?”
Context
29
For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren.
30
Moreover whom he did predestinate, them he also called: and whom he called, them he also justified: and whom he justified, them he also glorified.
31
What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us?
32
He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things?
33
Who shall lay any thing to the charge of God's elect? It is God that justifieth.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(31-39) Now follows the sublime and triumphant conclusion from the foregoing—expressed with passionate energy and with the most intense consciousness of the reality of a Christian belief in penetrating and sustaining the mind in all outward trials, however severe.
Erasmus remarks on this, that “Cicero never said anything grander.” It is needless to add that, setting aside other considerations, Cicero was not for a moment comparable in spiritual intensity, and therefore in true eloquence, to St. Paul.
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 8:31 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 8:31
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge