For the creation was subjected to vanity, not of its own will, but by reason of him who subjected it, in hope
All believers are heirs of God Himself and joint-heirs with Christ, not by their own merit, but purely by His act. Though now they are heirs still under age, educated and prepared, they possess in reversion what the world counts as nothing. How comfortable for the poor saint: his poverty matters little when he inherits God Himself and all things with Christ.
AI summary
Commenting on Romans 8:17-25
The creation groans under corruption, not from its own nature, which inclines toward preservation, but because God has subjected it to this decay. Yet He has planted hope within all things: the sun and stars pursue their courses, the earth brings forth fruit, water flows, all in obedience and expectation of renewal. We should be ashamed that these senseless things look toward higher restoration while our minds remain earthbound.
AI summary
Creation is subject to vanity, not from its natural bent, but unwillingly, by the command of Him who made it subject in hope. God showed His displeasure with man through creation's sickly state, yet He would not curse the world forever; He gave it hope of restoration.
AI summary