Paul introduces this verse with a conjunction that is rendered “for” in several translations (King James Version, An American Translation*, New English Bible). Although it is difficult to decide on precisely what meaning Paul sought in this particular conjunction, most translators assume that its force can be properly maintained merely by introducing a new paragraph division at this point. It would appear that Paul is not making a logical conclusion on the basis of his previous argument, but rather that he is making a theological declaration in light of his own faith and hope. The verb Paul uses here is one of his favorite expressions and is rendered I consider by most translators. It is a verb which expresses strong assurance and not doubt; a translation such a “I think” may imply less than what Paul intends. “I am assured” or “I am certain” comes much closer to conveying his meaning.
In going to be revealed the understood agent of the passive voice is God, that is, God is going to reveal it to us. Revealed in this context indicates something Christians will experience, not merely something they will see with their eyes.
To us (New English Bible “for us”) is the meaning that most translators apparently give to the prepositional phrase (Greek eis hēmas) that Paul uses here, though some see in this the force of “in us” (King James Version). The most natural meaning of the Greek preposition eis (Good News Translation to) would seem to be that of “to” or “for,” although there are definite instances in the New Testament where it does have the force of “in.” If the usual meaning is given to this preposition, the present passage indicates that at the end of time God will reveal his glory “to” or “for the benefit of” his people (note La Sainte Bible: Nouvelle version Segond révisée “for us”). Otherwise, the focus is on the truth that at that time God’s people will share in and reflect God’s true glory. No dogmatic conclusion can be made, and translators may follow either exegesis.
Paul’s contrast between the present time with its evil and suffering and “the coming age” with its glory that is going to be revealed reflects the Jewish and Christian belief in two ages. According to this belief the present age is characterized by the forces of evil exerting themselves and so causing sin and suffering. But the “coming age” is the age in which God’s rule will be fully revealed and the power of evil destroyed. When this happens, all sin and suffering will cease, and men of faith will enjoy the benefits of God’s presence.
In some languages it is not easy to compare such events as “suffering” and “the possession of glory.” The closest equivalent may be “no one can say that what we suffer at the present time and the glory that is going to be revealed to us are the same.” But such a rendering completely misses the significant contrast which Paul is trying to introduce. Therefore, it may be more satisfactory to emphasize the difference rather than the comparison—for example, “I consider that what we suffer at the present time and the glory that is going to be revealed to us are utterly different” or “… are so very, very different.”
In order to highlight the fact that the glory is going to be experienced rather than merely seen, one may want to translate: “the glory that God is going to give us” or “the glory that God is going to cause us to enjoy.”
Quoted with permission from Newman, Barclay M. and Nida, Eugene A. A Handbook on Paul’s Letter to the Romans. (UBS Handbook Series). New York: UBS, 1973. For this and other handbooks for translators see here .