Romans 5:2-4 – Tested expectation 

… and we may be glorying in expectation of the glory of God. Yet not only so, but we may be glorying also in afflictions, having perceived that affliction is producing endurance, yet endurance testedness, yet testedness expectation. Now expectation is not mortifying…

In verses 2 and 3 we read that we rejoice in the expectation of the glory of GOD, even in afflictions. By this Paul does not mean that we boast both in expectation ánd in tribulations. As if the tribulations themselves were a cause for glorification.

The argument is different. We boast in expectation, even when we are in tribulation. For this expectation has the impact that it enables us to endure the tribulations. Enduring tribulations proves the authenticity (= testedness) of boasting in hope. So that the ‘chain’ of verses 2 to 4 both began with expectation and ends with it. Expectation that has now been tested. It is the afflictions that subject the boasting in expectation, as if to a trial by fire. If we still boast in expectation, and if this boasting therefore endures the afflictions, then expectation glories all the more. Expectation that does not put to shame! 

Delen: