Back to Today
Romans 8:28Life in the Spirit
We know that all things work together for good for those who love God, for those who are called according to his purpose.
Permalink Verse page
Interpretation

Romans 8:28 shows a purpose that is lived within concrete decisions—see "those" and "who". Choose purpose in boundaries we honor—season power with mercy.

Context

Romans speaks here as epistle/letter writing, highlighting purpose. Within ch. 8, a small unit frames the emphasis. Watch the terms “those” and “who”.

Authorship & Historical Background

Long‑standing tradition credits Romans to Paul. In current research on Romans, generally accepted as Pauline.. Scholars commonly date Romans AD 57. Romans seems aimed at Church in Rome.. The setting is the Life in the Spirit (epistle/letter). Apostolic Community is especially relevant in this line. Occasion and letter architecture shape many readings.

More details
Traditional:Paul
Modern scholarship:Authentic Pauline.
Date:AD 57
Audience:Church in Rome.
Manuscripts & Textual Witnesses
Textual variants exist regarding word order: some manuscripts read 'God works all things' while others have 'all things work.' The earliest manuscripts (P46, Sinaiticus, Vaticanus) support 'all things work together.' The phrase 'for good' (eis agathon) is consistent. The variant doesn't significantly change the meaning–either God actively works, or He ensures things work together. Both readings have strong manuscript support.
Sources & witness notes
SinaiticusVaticanusP46