Romans 15:4
“For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Context
Paul, having quoted from the Psalms, pauses to affirm the enduring value of the Scriptures for instructing and encouraging believers toward hope.
What Does Romans 15:4 Mean?
Paul explains why the ancient writings still matter: "whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning." The earlier Scriptures were not merely records of a distant past; they were given with later readers in view, intended to teach and shape those who would come after. Paul has just quoted from the Psalms, and here he steps back to state the principle behind such use of Scripture.
The purpose is layered. Through the "patience" the Scriptures cultivate -- the steady endurance modeled by faithful people of old -- and through the "comfort" they bring, the reader arrives at "hope." The chain matters: Scripture instructs, instruction builds endurance and consolation, and these together produce hope. The Bible is not given only to inform but to sustain, to carry the reader through hardship toward confident expectation. This grants the believer real confidence in turning to Scripture for help; what was written long ago speaks directly to present struggles. For the reader weary or discouraged, the counsel is plain: go to the Scriptures, let them teach and steady and comfort you, and find there the hope that endures.
In the Original Language
The word didaskalia, "learning," means teaching or instruction, while paraklesis, "comfort," carries the sense of encouragement that comes alongside to strengthen.
Cross References
“All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:”
- 2 Timothy 3:16
“Now all these things happened unto them for ensamples: and they are written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the world are come.”
- 1 Corinthians 10:11
“This is my comfort in my affliction: for thy word hath quickened me.”
- Psalm 119:50
Application
When you are weary or discouraged, turn to the Scriptures expecting instruction, endurance, and comfort, and find there the hope that carries you forward.