What is the meaning of Romans 8:18?

Romans 8:18 is a powerful and profound verse that reads, "For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us" (ESV). This verse, written by the Apostle Paul, encapsulates a central theme of Christian hope and endurance amidst suffering. To fully grasp its meaning, it is essential to understand its context within the epistle and the broader narrative of Scripture.

Paul's letter to the Romans is a theological masterpiece, addressing the nature of sin, salvation, grace, and the life of faith. Chapter 8, in particular, is often seen as one of the most encouraging and theologically rich sections of the New Testament. It begins with the triumphant declaration that "there is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus" (Romans 8:1, ESV), setting the tone for a discourse on the life in the Spirit and the hope of future glory.

In Romans 8:18, Paul is addressing the reality of suffering in the Christian life. He acknowledges that believers will experience hardships, trials, and tribulations in this present age. This acknowledgment is crucial because it does not offer a false promise of a trouble-free life but rather prepares believers for the inevitability of suffering. Paul himself was no stranger to suffering. His life was marked by persecution, imprisonment, beatings, and countless other trials (2 Corinthians 11:23-28). Yet, despite these experiences, he writes with a tone of unwavering hope and assurance.

The phrase "the sufferings of this present time" encompasses all forms of suffering that believers might endure. This includes physical pain, emotional distress, persecution for one's faith, and the general hardships of living in a fallen world. Paul does not minimize these sufferings but places them in perspective by comparing them to "the glory that is to be revealed to us." This future glory refers to the ultimate redemption and restoration that believers will experience when Christ returns. It is the fulfillment of God's promises, the complete eradication of sin and death, and the ushering in of a new heaven and a new earth (Revelation 21:1-4).

Paul's use of the word "consider" (Greek: "logizomai") indicates a reasoned conclusion, a thoughtful assessment. He is not speaking from a place of wishful thinking but from a deep conviction grounded in his understanding of God's promises. This conviction is rooted in the hope of resurrection and eternal life, themes that permeate Paul's writings. In 2 Corinthians 4:17, he echoes a similar sentiment: "For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison" (ESV). Here, Paul emphasizes that the trials of this life, though real and painful, are temporary and serve a purpose in God's redemptive plan.

The "glory" Paul speaks of is multifaceted. It includes the personal transformation of believers into the likeness of Christ (1 John 3:2), the restoration of all creation (Romans 8:19-21), and the communal experience of God's presence in the new creation. This glory is not merely a return to an Edenic state but a surpassing of it, a consummation of God's original intent for humanity and creation. It is a glory that far exceeds our current understanding and imagination, one that will make all present sufferings pale in comparison.

In addition to the eschatological hope, Romans 8:18 also offers practical encouragement for believers. It invites Christians to adopt an eternal perspective, to view their present circumstances in light of God's ultimate plan. This perspective does not negate the pain of suffering but provides a framework for enduring it with hope. It reminds believers that their suffering is not in vain but is part of a larger story that culminates in unimaginable glory.

Moreover, this verse encourages a communal aspect of faith. The "glory that is to be revealed to us" is a collective hope, a shared destiny for all who are in Christ. This communal dimension is important because it fosters solidarity and mutual encouragement among believers. In times of suffering, the Christian community is called to support one another, to bear each other's burdens (Galatians 6:2), and to remind each other of the hope that lies ahead.

The writings of early church fathers and theologians also shed light on the meaning of this verse. Augustine, in his "Confessions," reflects on the transient nature of earthly suffering in contrast to the eternal joy of heaven. Similarly, Thomas Aquinas, in his "Summa Theologica," discusses the beatific vision—the ultimate direct self-communication of God to the individual person—as the ultimate fulfillment of human longing and the answer to all suffering.

In contemporary Christian literature, C.S. Lewis's "The Weight of Glory" offers a poignant exploration of this theme. Lewis writes about the deep-seated human longing for something beyond this world, a longing that points to our ultimate destiny in God's presence. He argues that our earthly sufferings and desires are signposts pointing us towards the greater reality of heaven.

In conclusion, Romans 8:18 is a verse that encapsulates the Christian hope amidst suffering. It acknowledges the reality of present hardships but places them in the context of the future glory that awaits believers. This glory is not only a personal transformation but also the renewal of all creation and the communal experience of God's presence. Paul's reasoned conviction, grounded in the promises of God, offers believers a framework for enduring suffering with hope and assurance. It invites Christians to adopt an eternal perspective, to support one another in times of trial, and to look forward with eager anticipation to the fulfillment of God's redemptive plan.