Romans 16:20 (KJV)

What does Romans 16:20 mean?

Romans 16:20 promises that God, described as the God of peace, will soon defeat Satan, bringing him under the feet of the believers. Paul ends this statement with a blessing, asking that the grace of Jesus Christ be with the readers.

Paul is writing to the Christians in Rome, closing his letter with encouragement and reassurance. The verse points to God’s ultimate victory over evil and reminds the church that God’s peace and Jesus’ grace are with them, even as they face challenges.

The Greek behind Romans 16:20

• "Bruise" (συντρίβω, syntribō) means to crush or break in pieces. This word suggests a decisive, forceful defeat of Satan, not just a minor setback.
• "Shortly" (ἐν τάχει, en tachei) carries the sense of something happening soon or quickly. Paul is reassuring the believers that God’s victory is not far off.
• "Under your feet" (ὑπὸ τοὺς πόδας ὑμῶν, hypo tous podas hymōn) is a picture of total defeat, where an enemy is made powerless and subject to those who follow God.

Why Romans 16:20 matters

• This verse clears up any idea that evil has the final say; Paul emphasizes that God’s peace will win out and that Satan’s defeat is certain.
• The use of "under your feet" connects to Old Testament imagery of enemies being subdued, showing that believers share in God’s victory.
• Paul’s blessing about grace ties the promise of victory directly to Jesus, reminding readers that their strength and hope come from Him.