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Spence, H. D. M., etc.

The Pulpit Commentary - Romans 12:9-21

Various admonitions, applicable to all; headed by inculcation of the all-pervading principle of love. read more

Spence, H. D. M., etc.

The Pulpit Commentary - Romans 12:9-21

Christian love. Now we come to the great central principle of the Christian life in its social relations among men—true love. And, as the apostle addresses Church-members, he paints this love, by a few vivid strokes, as they owe it to their fellow-members, and also to those that are without. I. First, as members of Christ, they are to love one another. 1. The ethical character of this love. It is holy. Not a mere sentimental tenderness, but a love that abhors the evil, in... read more

Spence, H. D. M., etc.

The Pulpit Commentary - Romans 12:9-21

Christian socialism. From Churchmanship, which was discussed by the apostle in the preceding verses, we now pass to the Christian in society; and our endeavour will be to appreciate the Christian socialism which Paul here inculcates. The great error of the Christless socialism which prevails, alas! in many lands, is that it tries to do from without and by mere material manipulation what can only come from within through the Christian spirit. Into the various forms which socialism has... read more

Spence, H. D. M., etc.

The Pulpit Commentary - Romans 12:17-18

Honourableness and peaceableness. Men do and must live in society. And all civilized communities have their own codes of conduct, which must be observed by those who wish to enjoy the benefits of social life and the protection of political government. Civil society enjoins the observance of justice and the maintenance of peace. But public opinion often requires simply a compliance with the letter of the law, and is very tolerant as to infractions of its spirit. The code of society or the... read more

Spence, H. D. M., etc.

The Pulpit Commentary - Romans 12:18-21

If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men. Avenge not yourselves, beloved, but give place unto wrath . The thought in Romans 12:19 seems to follow from what precedes. It may sometimes be impossible to he at peace with all; but at any rate, do not increase bitterness by avenging yourselves. Give place unto wrath ( τῇ ὀργῇ ) , has been taken by some to mean that we are to give scope to the wrath of our enemy, instead of being exasperated to resist... read more

Albert Barnes

Albert Barnes' Notes on the Whole Bible - Romans 12:18

If it be possible - If it can be done. This expression implies that it could not always be done. Still it should be an object of desire; and we should endeavor to obtain it.As much as lieth in you - This implies two things:(1) We are to do our utmost endeavors to preserve peace, and to appease the anger and malice of others.(2) We are not to “begin” or to “originate” a quarrel.So far as “we” are concerned, we are to seek peace. But then it does not always depend on us. Others may oppose and... read more

Albert Barnes

Albert Barnes' Notes on the Whole Bible - Romans 12:19

Dearly beloved - This expression of tenderness was especially appropriate in an exhortation to peace. It reminded them of the affection and friendship which ought to subsist among them as brethren.Avenge not yourselves - To “avenge” is to take satisfaction for an injury by inflicting punishment on the offender. To take such satisfaction for injuries done to society, is lawful and proper for a magistrate; Romans 13:4. And to take satisfaction for injuries done by sin to the universe, is the... read more

Albert Barnes

Albert Barnes' Notes on the Whole Bible - Romans 12:20

Therefore, if thine enemy hunger ... - This verse is taken almost literally from Proverbs 25:21-22. Hunger and thirst here are put for want in general. If thine enemy is needy in any way, do him good, and supply his needs. This is, in spirit, the same as the command of the Lord Jesus Matthew 5:44, “Do good to them that hate you,” etc.In so doing - It does not mean that we are to do this “for the sake” of heaping coals of fire on him, but that this will be the result.Thou shalt heap ... - Coals... read more

Joseph Benson

Joseph Benson's Commentary of the Old and New Testaments - Romans 12:12-18

Romans 12:12-18 . Rejoicing in hope Of perfect holiness and everlasting happiness; or of the glory of God; (Romans 5:2;) and of eternal life, Titus 1:2; patient in tribulation To which you may be exposed for the cause of Christ, or in whatever you may be called to suffer, according to the wise disposals of God’s gracious providence; continuing instant in prayer That you may stand firm in the faith, and have a seasonable deliverance from your trouble. Distributing to the necessities... read more

Joseph Benson

Joseph Benson's Commentary of the Old and New Testaments - Romans 12:19-20

Romans 12:19-20. Dearly beloved So he softens the rugged spirit; avenge not yourselves On those that have injured you, whatever wrongs you may receive; but rather give place unto wrath Yield to the wrath of the enemy: for it is written, Vengeance is mine It properly belongs to me; and I will repay The deserved punishment; saith the Lord Or perhaps the original expression, δοτε τοπον τη οργη , might be more properly rendered, leave room for wrath; that is, the wrath of God, to... read more

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