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    Scripture's Purpose

    Romans 15:4 Commentary

    In-depth meaning, historical context, and practical application

    Written by Bible Sundays Editorial TeamChecked by Bible Sundays Scripture DeskLast reviewed August 1, 2026Our editorial standards
    "For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope."
    — Romans 15:4 (KJV)
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    Introduction

    Paul reveals why the Old Testament was written: for OUR learning. Not just for ancient Israel but for every generation of believers. Scripture produces patience, comfort, and hope — three things every believer desperately needs.

    The Bible is not an ancient artifact; it is a living resource for present hope.

    Historical Context

    Paul has just quoted Psalm 69:9 to illustrate Christ's selfless character. He pauses to explain his method: Old Testament Scriptures are not mere history — they are written for the instruction and encouragement of all believers in every era.

    Original Language Insights

    'Hosa proegraphē' (whatever was written before) — everything previously recorded in Scripture. 'Eis tēn hēmeteran didaskalian egraphē' (was written for our instruction) — the purpose was always future-oriented: for US.

    'Dia tēs hypomonēs kai dia tēs paraklēseōs tōn graphōn' (through the patience/endurance and comfort/encouragement of the Scriptures) — Scripture produces two things: staying power (hypomonē) and encouragement (paraklēsis).

    'Tēn elpida echōmen' (we might have hope) — the ultimate result: hope. Scripture → patience + comfort → hope.

    Theological Significance

    This verse establishes the ongoing relevance of all Scripture. Nothing in the Bible is expired or irrelevant — every word was written with future readers in mind. The Old Testament is not obsolete; it is essential equipment for the Christian life.

    The progression is significant: Scripture produces patience (endurance through trials), comfort (encouragement during suffering), and hope (confident expectation of God's faithfulness). This is the Bible's emotional and spiritual function.

    Practical Application

    When you lack patience — read Scripture. When you need comfort — read Scripture. When hope is fading — read Scripture. Paul identifies the Bible as God's delivery system for the three things you need most.

    Don't skip the Old Testament. It was written for YOUR learning. The stories of Abraham, David, Elijah, and Daniel are not ancient history — they are your curriculum for faith.

    Cross-References & Related Scriptures

    2 Timothy 3:16-17

    "All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable."

    Paul makes the same point to Timothy: all Scripture is useful for the believer.

    1 Corinthians 10:11

    "Now all these things happened unto them for ensamples: and they are written for our admonition."

    Paul applies the same principle: Old Testament events are recorded for our benefit.

    Psalm 119:50

    "This is my comfort in my affliction: for thy word hath quickened me."

    The psalmist experienced the comfort of Scripture that Paul describes.

    Prayer Response

    Lord, thank You that all Scripture was written for my learning. Through its patience and comfort, give me hope. Let every page — old and new — strengthen my faith and sustain my soul. Amen.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Does 'whatsoever things were written' include the entire Old Testament?

    Yes — Paul means all of prior Scripture. Every narrative, law, psalm, and prophecy was written with future believers in mind. Nothing is irrelevant.

    How does Scripture produce hope?

    By showing God's consistent faithfulness through generations. When you read how God kept promises to Abraham, delivered Israel, restored David, and sustained the prophets, it produces confidence that He will be faithful to you.

    Read commentary on surrounding verses

    Continue studying Romans 15 verse by verse:

    After · Romans 15:13Exact verse

    Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost.

    Theme: Hope & Joy

    Nearest commentary in Romans

    Earlier · 3 ch back · Romans 12:1-2Nearest chapter

    I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.

    Theme: Transformation

    Earlier · 3 ch back · Romans 12:1Nearest chapter

    I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.

    Theme: Consecration

    Earlier · 3 ch back · Romans 12:2Nearest chapter

    And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.

    Theme: Transformation & Renewal

    Earlier · 3 ch back · Romans 12:9Nearest chapter

    Let love be without dissimulation. Abhor that which is evil; cleave to that which is good.

    Theme: Authentic Love

    Earlier · 1 ch back · Romans 14:8Nearest chapter

    For whether we live, we live unto the Lord; and whether we die, we die unto the Lord: whether we live therefore, or die, we are the Lord's.

    Theme: Belonging to God

    Read Romans 14Commentary: Romans 14:8
    Read Romans 15 (full)Nearest commentary: Romans 15:13
    Read Romans 16No commentary yet
    Previous commentary: Romans 14:8Next commentary: Romans 15:13

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    Common questions people ask about this passage — answered with KJV scripture.

    What Does the Bible Say About Depression?

    The Bible acknowledges deep emotional suffering — Elijah, David, and Jeremiah all experienced despair — and offers God's presence, hope, and comfort as the answer.

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    What Is Encouragement in the Bible?

    Encouragement in the Bible is the ministry of strengthening others' hearts with hope, truth, and comfort through words, presence, and actions, commanded for every believer.

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    How to Deal with Grief Biblically?

    Grieve honestly before God, hold to the hope of resurrection, lean on the comfort of His presence and His people, and let time and grace heal — without despairing as those without hope.

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    Quick Devotional

    For a shorter devotional reflection on related verses:

    Romans 12:2 – Meaning & Devotional

    "And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God."

    Romans 10:9 – Meaning & Devotional

    "That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved."

    Romans 5:8 – Meaning & Devotional

    "But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us."

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    Signs and wonders connected to this passage and its themes:

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