by Mark Mayberry
Synopsis: Mark considers the significance of Paul's statement, "Whatever was written in earlier times was written for our instruction, so that through perseverance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope" (Rom. 15:4).
Herein, we focus upon the text of Romans 15:4, considering the significance of each phrase. Note the following renditions of this verse:
For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope (Rom. 15:4, KJV).
For whatever was written in former days was written for our instruction, that through endurance and through the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope (Rom. 15:4, ESV).
For everything that was written in former times was written for our instruction, so that through endurance and through encouragement of the scriptures we may have hope (Rom. 15:4, NET).
For whatever was written in earlier times was written for our instruction, so that through perseverance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope (Rom. 15:4, NASB).
What is the meaning of this expression? The Greek word prographō, here translated "written in earlier times," refers to something that was written in an earlier document. Specifically, it refers to the Sacred Scriptures of the Old Testament.
The Scriptures are given by divine inspiration (2 Tim. 3:16-17; 1 Pet. 1:10-12; 2 Pet. 1:20-21). A written record, especially one that is "God-breathed," has far greater value than uninspired oral communication, especially regarding its precision and permanence.
Under divine guidance, Moses wrote down all the words of the Lord (Exod. 24:1-4; Deut. 31:9-13). So also did the psalmist David: "The Spirit of the Lord spoke by me, And His word was on my tongue" (2 Sam. 23:1-2; cf. 1 Chron. 28:11-19).
The value of a written record was seen during the time of the conquest (Josh. 8:30-35). As Israel assembled between Mt. Ebal and Gerizim to hear the blessings and curses of the Law, they were faithfully obedient "according to all that is written in the book of the law."
The value of a written record was seen during the days of Israel's restoration (Ezra 3:1-5). Under the leadership of Jeshua and Zerubbabel, the faithful priests "arose and built the altar of the God of Israel to offer burnt offerings on it, as it is written in the law of Moses."
The value of a written record was seen in the temptation of Jesus (Matt. 4:1-11). He responded to every enticement and distortion of the divine text by saying, "It is written… It is written… It is written…," thus showing us how to resist temptation.
Believers also find great benefit from studying the Old Testament (1 Cor. 10:11). Successes and failures of past generations are accurately recorded in the Sacred Text, serving as examples to us. "They were written for our instruction, upon whom the ends of the ages have come."
What is the meaning of "instruction"? In summary, the Greek word didaskalia, here translated "instruction," refers to either the act/function of teaching or content/information that is communicated through teaching.
The doctrines of men render our worship vain (Matt. 15:9; Col. 2:20-23), result in spiritual instability (Eph. 4:14-15), and derive from Satan himself (1 Tim. 4:1-3).
True doctrine is rooted in the declarations of Sacred Scripture (2 Tim. 3:16-17), conforms to godliness (1 Tim. 6:3), and derives from the God of heaven (Titus 2:10).
What is the meaning of "perseverance"? The Greek word hupomonē, here translated "perseverance," refers to the capacity of continuing to hold out (or bear up) when facing difficult circumstances. It can also be used of the act (or state) of patiently waiting for someone or something.
Patience is a gift of God (Rom. 15:5; 2 Thess. 3:5). It is required of disciples (Luke 8:15; Heb. 10:36). It brings great spiritual benefits (5:3-4; James 1:3-4).
What is encouragement? The Greek word paraklēsis, here translated "encouragement," refers to the act of emboldening another in their belief or course of action.
Encouragement is characteristic of God (Luke 2:25; 2 Cor. 1:3, 5). It is required of disciples (Rom. 12:8; cf. Barnabas [Acts 4:36] and Philemon [Phile. 7]). It comes through divine truth (Acts 13:15; 15:31; Heb. 13:22).
What is hope? The Greek word elpis, here translated "hope," means to look forward to something with a reason for confidence respecting fulfillment. While evil men have no enduring hope (Eph. 2:12; 1 Thess. 4:13), believers enjoy an abiding hope (1 Cor. 13:13).
Consider the nature of hope: Christian hope is conditional (Heb. 3:6; 6:11). It is presently unrealized (Rom. 8:20, 24). The hope of believers is distinctive and singular (Eph. 4:4).
Indeed, "whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the Scriptures might have hope." May God bless us as we attempt to implement the principles contained in this passage. Hear the word of God. Believe heaven's message. Make proper application of the truth to your personal life. Trust and obey, for there's no other way to be happy in Jesus, but to trust and obey.
Author Bio: Mark and Sherelyn have labored with the Adoue Street church of Christ in Alvin, TX since 1998, where he serves as the evangelist and an elder. The church website is ascoc.org. His Bible study website is markmayberry.net. His personal website is markmayberry.org. He can be reached at mark@truthpublications.com.
