Romans 8:19

The creation waits in eager expectation for the revelation of the sons of God.

Study Bible

The creation
The term "creation" (Greek: κτίσις, ktisis) refers to the entirety of the natural world, encompassing all that God has made. In a conservative Christian perspective, this includes not only the physical earth and its ecosystems but also the universe at large. Theologically, this highlights the belief that all of creation is under God's sovereign rule and is intricately connected to humanity's spiritual journey. The use of "creation" here suggests a collective entity that is personified, indicating that it shares in the anticipation of God's redemptive plan.

waits
The Greek word used here is ἀπεκδέχεται (apekdechetai), which conveys a sense of active waiting or anticipation. This is not a passive or idle waiting but one filled with hope and expectation. In the historical context of the early church, this term would resonate with believers who were enduring persecution and hardship, reminding them that their current sufferings were temporary and that a greater glory awaited.

in eager expectation
This phrase translates the Greek word ἀποκαραδοκία (apokaradokia), which paints a vivid picture of someone craning their neck forward in anticipation. It suggests an intense longing and hope for something that is assuredly coming. For the early Christians, this eager expectation was rooted in the promises of God, as revealed through Scripture, that He would ultimately restore and redeem all things.

for the revelation
The word "revelation" (Greek: ἀποκάλυψις, apokalypsis) means an unveiling or disclosure. In the biblical context, it often refers to the revealing of divine truths or the manifestation of God's will. Here, it signifies the future event when God's children will be fully revealed in their glorified state. This revelation is not just a future hope but also a present reality that believers are called to live in light of.

of the sons of God
The phrase "sons of God" (Greek: υἱῶν τοῦ Θεοῦ, huion tou Theou) refers to those who have been adopted into God's family through faith in Jesus Christ. This adoption is a central theme in Paul's writings, emphasizing the intimate relationship believers have with God as their Father. Historically, this concept would have been revolutionary, as it transcended the Jewish understanding of God's chosen people and extended the promise of sonship to all who believe in Christ. The "revelation of the sons of God" points to the future glorification of believers, when their true identity and inheritance will be fully realized and manifested to all of creation.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Creation
Refers to the entire universe, including the earth and all living things. In this context, it is personified as waiting eagerly for a future event.

2. Sons of God
Believers in Christ who are adopted into God's family. Their full identity and glory will be revealed in the future.

3. Paul the Apostle
The author of the Book of Romans, writing to the believers in Rome to explain the gospel and its implications for both Jews and Gentiles.

4. Rome
The city to which Paul addressed this letter, a central hub of the Roman Empire, with a diverse population including a significant number of Christians.

5. Eager Expectation
A term that conveys a sense of anticipation and hope, indicating that creation is looking forward to a significant future event.

Teaching Points

Creation's Anticipation
Creation itself is depicted as eagerly awaiting the fulfillment of God's redemptive plan. This highlights the interconnectedness of humanity and the natural world in God's purposes.

Identity in Christ
Believers are already sons and daughters of God, but their full identity will be revealed in the future. This should encourage Christians to live in a way that reflects their true identity.

Hope for the Future
The eager expectation of creation serves as a reminder of the hope that believers have in Christ. Despite current sufferings, there is a glorious future awaiting.

Living with Purpose
Understanding that creation is waiting for the revelation of the sons of God should motivate believers to live purposefully, knowing that their lives have eternal significance.

Environmental Stewardship
As part of creation, believers have a responsibility to care for the environment, reflecting God's love and anticipation for its ultimate redemption.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of "eager expectation" in Romans 8:19 influence your understanding of the current state of the world and its future?

2. In what ways can believers today live out their identity as "sons of God" in anticipation of their future revelation?

3. How does the hope of future glory help you cope with present sufferings or challenges?

4. What practical steps can you take to reflect God's care for creation in your daily life?

5. How do the themes in Romans 8:19 connect with the promise of a new heaven and a new earth in Revelation 21:1, and what does this mean for your personal faith journey?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 3
The fall of man and the resulting curse on creation, which sets the stage for creation's longing for redemption.

2 Corinthians 5:17
The transformation of believers into new creations in Christ, which parallels the future transformation of all creation.

1 John 3:2
The future revelation of believers as children of God, which aligns with the "revelation of the sons of God" mentioned in Romans 8:19.

Revelation 21:1
The promise of a new heaven and a new earth, which is the ultimate fulfillment of creation's eager expectation.