Romans 12:10

In love of the brethren be tenderly affectioned one to another; in honor preferring one another.

The Greek word for "love" in both this and the preceding verses is [agape], that great New Testament word which has captured the loving admiration of people in all generations, meaning love in its most comprehensive and selfless qualities. There are two qualifying words which are added here as specifically applicable to members of the Christian family and the kind of love they should bear each other. It is all that the other is, and more. These qualifying words are [@filostorgio], meaning the kind of affection that exists in a family, and [@filadelfia], literally meaning brotherly love. McGarvey described it as:

(Like that) of an animal for its offspring, a parent for his child, a near relative for his close kin. Its use here indicates that the church tie should rival that of the family.[9]

In honor preferring one another ... carries the connotation of setting an example and taking the lead in the honoring of others. Instead of coveting and trying to grasp honors for one's self, the Christian should rather desire to exalt his fellow Christians, even taking the lead in the conveyance of such honors to them; and, as David Lipscomb stated it,

Instead of waiting for others to honor us, we should lead them in the manifestation of esteem and respect.[10]

[9] J. W. McGarvey and Phillip Y. Pendleton, The Standard Bible Commentary (Cincinnati, Ohio: Standard Publishing Company, 1916), p. 498.

[10] David Lipscomb, A Commentary on the New Testament Epistles (Nashville: Gospel Advocate Company, 1969), p. 226.