9Love — unfeigned. Abhorring evil, cleaving to good. [12:10] In brotherly love, tenderly devoted to one another; in honor, esteeming one another first. [12:11] In diligence, not lagging; boiling in spirit, serving the Lord. [12:12] Rejoicing in hope; enduring in tribulation; persevering in prayer. [12:13] Sharing in the needs of the saints; pursuing hospitality.
ROM 12:9-13
Love, Zeal, Hope, Hospitality
In the world it was spoken into
In the Roman world, (love) was a radical concept, distinct from the transactional or hierarchical relationships typical of Roman patronage or household codes. It called for a selfless, sacrificial commitment to others, countercultural in a society where relationships were often based on mutual benefit or social status. (brotherly affection) evoked the intimacy and loyalty of familial bonds, a stark contrast to the competitive individualism of Roman civic life. (zeal) and (fervent in spirit) emphasized an active, passionate engagement in communal life, challenging the Stoic ideal of emotional detachment. Hospitality was a vital practice in the early Christian communities, especially in urban centers like Rome, where traveling believers relied on the generosity of local hosts. This hospitality was not merely social but a tangible expression of solidarity and shared hope in Christ. The call to rejoice in hope and endure in tribulation resonated deeply in a context where believers faced social ostracism and occasional persecution.
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How other translations render this
ROM 12:9
- KJV
- Let love be without dissimulation. Abhor that which is evil; cleave to that which is good.
- BSB
- Love must be sincere. Detest what is evil; cling to what is good.
- Koinōnos
- Love — unfeigned. Abhorring evil, cleaving to good.
ROM 12:10
- KJV
- Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another;
- BSB
- Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Outdo yourselves in honoring one another.
- Koinōnos
- In brotherly love, tenderly devoted to one another; in honor, esteeming one another first.
ROM 12:11
- KJV
- Not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord;
- BSB
- Do not let your zeal subside; keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord.
- Koinōnos
- In diligence, not lagging; boiling in spirit, serving the Lord.
ROM 12:12
- KJV
- Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer;
- BSB
- Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, persistent in prayer.
- Koinōnos
- Rejoicing in hope; enduring in tribulation; persevering in prayer.
ROM 12:13
- KJV
- Distributing to the necessity of saints; given to hospitality.
- BSB
- Share with the saints who are in need. Practice hospitality.
- Koinōnos
- Sharing in the needs of the saints; pursuing hospitality.
Only verses where the wording diverges meaningfully are shown. Identical phrasings are suppressed.
Translator's notes
ROM 12:9
- [Let] love [be]:The word translated 'love' here refers to a self-sacrificial, unconditional love, distinct from familial affection or romantic desire. It describes a deliberate choice to act for the well-being of others, regardless of personal feelings.
ROM 12:10
- devoted:The term translated 'devoted' specifically evokes the deep, natural affection found within a family, like the love between parents and children or siblings. It suggests a strong, inherent bond of tenderness.
ROM 12:11
- in diligence:The phrase 'in diligence' comes from a word that means earnestness, eagerness, or zealous haste. It implies a focused and energetic effort, not just carefulness.
- being fervent,:The word translated 'being fervent' literally means to boil or be hot. It metaphorically describes an intense, passionate, and burning enthusiasm or zeal.