Tag Archives: Romans 15:4

Scripture as a Wellspring of Hope: Endurance, Comfort, and Canonical Purpose

Posted on April 15, 2022 by Exegesis & Hermeneutics
Ὅσα γὰρ προεγράφη, εἰς τὴν ἡμετέραν διδασκαλίαν προεγράφη, ἵνα διὰ τῆς ὑπομονῆς καὶ τῆς παρακλήσεως τῶν γραφῶν τὴν ἐλπίδα ἔχωμεν. (Romans 15:4)

For whatever was written beforehand was written for our instruction, in order that through the endurance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope.

Exegetical Analysis

Paul begins with a generalizing relative clause: ὅσα γὰρ προεγράφη — “For whatever was written beforehand.” The verb προεγράφη (aorist passive of προγράφω) occurs twice in the verse, stressing prior inscription — a deliberate record in sacred history. The repetition underscores Scripture’s enduring intentionality. These writings, though ancient, were not sealed off from the present.… Learn Koine Greek

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Written for Our Instruction: Purpose Clauses and the Function of Scripture in Romans 15:4

Posted on April 15, 2015 by Advanced Greek Grammar
Ὅσα γὰρ προεγράφη, εἰς τὴν ἡμετέραν διδασκαλίαν προεγράφη, ἵνα διὰ τῆς ὑπομονῆς καὶ τῆς παρακλήσεως τῶν γραφῶν τὴν ἐλπίδα ἔχωμεν. (Romans 15:4)

For whatever was written beforehand was written for our instruction, so that through the endurance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope.”

Paul compresses theology and pastoral encouragement into tightly ordered syntax. By repeating the same verb, employing a purpose clause, and highlighting key virtues, this verse outlines how the Scriptures serve as a wellspring of endurance, encouragement, and hope.

Relative Clause with Emphasis: ὅσα… προεγράφη

The verse begins with the neuter plural relative pronoun ὅσα (“whatever things”), casting a wide net over the whole body of Scripture.… Learn Koine Greek

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