Romans 8:28

Context

In the latter part of Romans 8, Paul says that creation and believers groan together as they wait for the consummation of salvation (vv. 18–25). The Spirit also intercedes for believers "with groanings which cannot be uttered" (vv. 26–27). Verse 28 is presented as a conviction that believers "know" amid such suffering and waiting, and it leads into the predestination, calling, and glorification described in verses 29–30.

Interpretation

• As a promise of providence: The verse is read as a confession of providence, affirming that God governs both good and bad events so that they ultimately work for the benefit of those who believe. Many confessions of faith cite this verse in support of their teaching on providence.
• Reading "good" as the consummation of salvation: Because the immediately following verse speaks of God's purpose that believers be "conformed to the image of his Son" (v. 29), this view holds that "good" here refers not to improved circumstances but to growth in Christlikeness and the consummation of salvation. Many contemporary commentators emphasize this connection.
• On the subject of the verb: Some early manuscripts include "God" as the subject, so the verse is sometimes rendered "God works all things together for good." Whichever reading is followed, interpreters largely agree that it is God who brings these things about.

Controversies and Issues

Some observe that this verse is too readily offered to suffering people as an optimistic assurance that "everything will turn out fine." Critics argue that the verse does not call suffering itself good, and that using it to hastily cover over grief can deepen the hurt. The verse is also a key text in theodicy, the attempt to reconcile God's goodness with the existence of evil in the world, which asks why God permits evil.

The phrase "the called according to his purpose" is connected with the doctrine of predestination. The Reformed tradition reads it as referring to effectual calling, while Arminianism reads it as referring to those who have responded to the gospel.

In the Korean Church

The verse is frequently used at funeral services, during hospital visits, and in offering comfort to those who have suffered a business failure or failed an examination. It also commonly appears as a motto and on framed wall hangings.

Related Passages

• Genesis 50:20
• Romans 8:18
• Romans 8:29–30
• James 1:2–4