15:4 What are the things that were written before for our learning?
15:4 What are the things that were written before for our learning?
Paul is referring to the Old Testament scriptures here. Even though we live under the new covenant, Old Testament scriptures still stand for our example (CP 1Cor 10:1-11; 2Ti 3:16-17).
We learn from 1Cor 10:1-11 that the Old Testament encourages New Testament believers to endure tribulations and persevere in faith in view of Christ's second coming. That is the hope Paul referred to in Ro 15:4.
Without the clear and certain promises of scripture - in both Testaments - believers have no basis for hope (CP Psa 119:81; Jer 14:8-9; Ro 8:24-25; 15:8-13 Eph 2:12-13; Tit 2:11-15).
See also comments on 1Cor 10:1-5 and author's study Christian - Beware of Failing God's Grace and Forfeiting your Salvation in his book Advanced Studies in the Christian Faith (Volume 2).