Charles Ellicott Commentary Romans 8:28

"And we know that to them that love God all things work together for good, [even] to them that are called according to [his] purpose." — Romans 8:28 (ASV)

All things.—Persecution and suffering included.

Work together.—Contribute.

There is a rather remarkable reading here, found in the Vatican and Alexandrian manuscripts, and in Origen. It involves inserting “God” as the subject of the verb and making “all things” the object, so that the text would read: “God works all things with,” or “co-operates in all things.” This reading is very early, if not original.

To them who are the called.—Further description of those who love God. They have also, as He had designed in His eternal counsels, obeyed the call given to them in the preaching of the gospel, and definitely enrolled themselves in the kingdom of the Messiah.

On Romans 8:28-30: These verses contain a third reason for the Christian's patience. He knows that whatever happens, all things are truly working together for his good.