And we knowThis phrase emphasizes certainty and assurance. The Apostle Paul is writing to the Roman Christians, affirming a shared understanding among believers. This knowledge is not speculative but is based on the revealed truth of God. It reflects a deep-seated conviction that comes from faith and experience in the Christian life.
that God works
God is the active agent in this process. The Greek term used here implies continuous action, indicating that God is constantly at work. This aligns with the biblical portrayal of God as sovereign and omnipotent, actively involved in the world and in the lives of His people. It echoes the Old Testament understanding of God as a potter shaping clay (Isaiah 64:8).
all things together
This phrase suggests the comprehensive scope of God's sovereignty. "All things" includes every aspect of life, both good and bad, joyful and sorrowful. The idea of working "together" implies a harmonious orchestration, much like a symphony where different instruments and notes come together to create a beautiful piece of music. This reflects the biblical theme of God's providence, where He orchestrates events for His divine purposes.
for the good
The "good" here is not necessarily immediate or material prosperity but is ultimately about spiritual growth and conformity to the image of Christ (Romans 8:29). This aligns with the biblical concept of goodness, which is often tied to moral and spiritual well-being rather than temporal success. It reflects the ultimate good of God's redemptive plan.
of those who love Him
This phrase identifies the recipients of God's promise. It is a specific group characterized by their love for God, which is a response to His love for them (1John 4:19). This love is not merely emotional but is demonstrated through obedience and faithfulness (John 14:15). It highlights the relational aspect of faith, where love for God is central to the believer's life.
who are called
The concept of being "called" refers to God's initiative in salvation. It is a divine summons that is effectual, meaning it accomplishes what God intends. This calling is part of God's eternal plan and purpose, as seen in other scriptures likeEphesians 1:4-5. It underscores the doctrine of election, where God chooses individuals to be part of His family.
according to His purpose
God's purpose is His divine plan, which is ultimately for His glory and the redemption of His people. This purpose is unchangeable and is rooted in His character and will. It connects to the broader biblical narrative of God's redemptive history, from creation to the new creation. This phrase assures believers that their lives are part of a larger divine plan, providing comfort and hope amidst life's uncertainties.
Persons / Places / Events
1.
Paul the ApostleThe author of the Book of Romans, Paul was a key figure in the early Christian church, known for his missionary journeys and theological teachings.
2.
The Roman ChurchThe original recipients of the letter, the Roman Christians were a diverse group of Jewish and Gentile believers living in the heart of the Roman Empire.
3.
GodThe central figure in this verse, God is depicted as sovereign and purposeful, orchestrating events for the good of His people.
4.
BelieversThose who "love Him" and are "called according to His purpose," referring to Christians who have a personal relationship with God through Jesus Christ.
5.
PurposeThe divine plan and intention that God has for His creation and His people, emphasizing His sovereignty and ultimate control over all things.
Teaching Points
God's SovereigntyTrust in God's ultimate control and His ability to work all things for good, even when circumstances seem unfavorable.
Love and ObedienceEmphasize the importance of loving God and aligning with His purpose, as this is a condition for experiencing the promise of
Romans 8:28.
Purposeful LivingEncourage believers to seek and understand God's purpose for their lives, knowing that they are part of a larger divine plan.
Faith in TrialsStrengthen faith by recognizing that trials and challenges are opportunities for God to demonstrate His goodness and faithfulness.
Community SupportHighlight the role of the Christian community in supporting one another, as God often works through people to accomplish His purposes.
Bible Study Questions and Answers
1.What is the meaning of Romans 8:28?
2.How can we trust "all things work together for good" in trials?
3.What does Romans 8:28 reveal about God's sovereignty in our lives?
4.How does Romans 8:28 connect with Genesis 50:20 regarding God's purpose?
5.How can we apply Romans 8:28 to our daily decision-making?
6.In what ways does Romans 8:28 encourage perseverance during difficult times?
7.How does Romans 8:28 reconcile with the existence of suffering and evil in the world?
8.Can Romans 8:28 be applied to non-believers, or is it exclusive to Christians?
9.How does Romans 8:28 align with the concept of free will?
10.What are the top 10 Lessons from Romans 8?
11.How can Romans 8:28’s statement that “all things work together for good” be true when so much suffering and injustice exist in the world?
12.What does "Called According to His Purpose" mean?
13.Where do you find comfort in times of trouble?
14.Will Shasta discover his true identity and save Narnia?What Does Romans 8:28 Mean
And we know• “And we know” speaks of settled certainty, not wishful thinking. The assurance rests on God’s revealed character and past faithfulness (2 Corinthians 5:1;1 John 5:13;2 Timothy 1:12).
• Because Scripture is true, believers can face every season already knowing the outcome is under God’s control.
that God works• God is never passive; He is continually active in His universe and in His children’s lives (John 5:17;Philippians 2:13;Ephesians 1:11).
• His working is personal—shaping hearts, opening doors, closing others, arranging circumstances in ways we could never engineer.
all things together• Nothing is outside the scope: triumphs and trials, blessings and burdens (Genesis 50:20;Colossians 1:17;Psalm 119:91).
• He weaves seemingly random threads into a purposeful tapestry, even when individual strands look dark.
for the good• “Good” is defined by God, not by momentary comfort (Jeremiah 29:11;Psalm 84:11;2 Corinthians 4:17;James 1:17).
• Ultimately that good is Christ-likeness, eternal glory, and deeper fellowship with Him—benefits that outlast every earthly loss.
of those who love Him• The promise is covenantal, reserved for those whose hearts are set on the Lord (Deuteronomy 6:5;John 14:21;1 Corinthians 2:9).
• Love shows itself in trust and obedience, aligning us with His transforming work.
who are called• “Called” highlights God’s initiating grace; He summons sinners into saving relationship (Romans 1:6;1 Peter 2:9;2 Timothy 1:9).
• Our security lies in His call, not our performance. The same voice that called us continues to shepherd us.
according to His purpose• Every detail serves His overarching plan, formed before time and guaranteed to stand (Isaiah 46:10;Ephesians 1:11;2 Thessalonians 1:11;Romans 9:11).
• His purpose is wise, loving, and unstoppable, ensuring that nothing in a believer’s life is wasted.
summaryRomans 8:28 gives believers unshakeable confidence: the sovereign God actively orchestrates every circumstance for the ultimate good of those who love Him, because He has called them into a plan that cannot fail. Whatever enters our lives is lovingly bent toward His perfect purpose and our eternal blessing.
(28-30) These verses contain a third reason for the patience of the Christian. He knows that whatever happens, all things are really working together for good to him.
(28)All things.--Persecution and suffering included.
Work together.--Contribute.
There is a rather remarkable reading here, found in the Vatican and Alexandrian MSS., and in Origen, inserting "God" as the subject of the verb, and making "all things" the object. "God works all things with," or "co-operates in all things." This reading is very early, if not original.
To them who are the called.--Further description of those "who love God." They have also, as in His eternal counsels He had designed it should be, obeyed the call given to them in the preaching of the gospel, and definitely enrolled themselves in the kingdom of the Messiah.
Verse 28. -
And we know that to them that love God all things work together for good, to them that are called according to his purpose. A still further reason for endurance. Not only do these inspired groanings strengthen our hope of deliverance; nay, also
we know (whether from God's Word, or inspired conviction, or experience of their effects) that these very trials that seem to hinder us are so overruled as to further the consummation to them that love God (cf. above,
Romans 5:3, etc.); and at the end of the verse there is added, as introducing a still further ground of assurance,
τοῖς κατὰπρόθεσιν κλητοῖς; the significance of which expression is shown in the following versos, which carry out the thought of it.
Parallel Commentaries ...
Greek
Andδὲ(de)Conjunction
Strong's 1161:A primary particle; but, and, etc.we knowΟἴδαμεν(Oidamen)Verb - Perfect Indicative Active - 1st Person Plural
Strong's 1492:To know, remember, appreciate.thatὅτι(hoti)Conjunction
Strong's 3754:Neuter of hostis as conjunction; demonstrative, that; causative, because.Godθεὸς(theos)Noun - Nominative Masculine Singular
Strong's 2316:A deity, especially the supreme Divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; by Hebraism, very.works all things togetherσυνεργεῖ(synergei)Verb - Present Indicative Active - 3rd Person Singular
Strong's 4903:To cooperate with, work together. From sunergos; to be a fellow-worker, i.e. Co-operate.forεἰς(eis)Preposition
Strong's 1519:A primary preposition; to or into, of place, time, or purpose; also in adverbial phrases.[the] goodἀγαθόν(agathon)Adjective - Accusative Neuter Singular
Strong's 18:A primary word; 'good'.of those whoτοῖς(tois)Article - Dative Masculine Plural
Strong's 3588:The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.loveἀγαπῶσιν(agapōsin)Verb - Present Participle Active - Dative Masculine Plural
Strong's 25:To love, wish well to, take pleasure in, long for; denotes the love of reason, esteem. Perhaps from agan; to love.[Him],Θεὸν(Theon)Noun - Accusative Masculine Singular
Strong's 2316:A deity, especially the supreme Divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; by Hebraism, very.whoτοῖς(tois)Article - Dative Masculine Plural
Strong's 3588:The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.areοὖσιν(ousin)Verb - Present Participle Active - Dative Masculine Plural
Strong's 1510:I am, exist. The first person singular present indicative; a prolonged form of a primary and defective verb; I exist.calledκλητοῖς(klētois)Adjective - Dative Masculine Plural
Strong's 2822:From the same as klesis; invited, i.e. Appointed, or, a saint.according toκατὰ(kata)Preposition
Strong's 2596:A primary particle; down, in varied relations (genitive, dative or accusative) with which it is joined).[His] purpose.πρόθεσιν(prothesin)Noun - Accusative Feminine Singular
Strong's 4286:From protithemai; a setting forth, i.e. proposal; specially, the show-bread as exposed before God.
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NT Letters: Romans 8:28 We know that all things work together (Rom. Ro)