Romans 12:13

Love, Zeal, Hope, Hospitality · Romans 12:9–13
Read Romans 12

Translations

Modern
Share with the saints who are in need. Practice hospitality.
Traditional
Distributing to the necessity of saints; given to hospitality.
Literal
…contributing to the needs of the saints, pursuing hospitality.
Latin
…necessitatibus sanctorum communicantes: hospitalitatem sectantes.

Original

Greek
English
Share with the saints who are in need. Practice hospitality.

Notes

Share with the saints who are in need: The verb Paul uses is related to the Greek word koinōnia, which means “sharing” or “fellowship.”

When fellow believers have needs, Christians should do more than give material help. They should also share life together, showing care, relationship, and mutual support that go beyond gifts alone.

The many instructions in these verses are not arranged in a strict or orderly pattern. The main theme, stated at the beginning, is sincere love.

Paul explains how believers should show love to people inside the church (12:10, 13, 15–16). He also explains how they should show love to people outside the church (12:14, 17–21).

This section of Romans explains the moral and ethical demands of the gospel. God’s gift of salvation in Christ calls for a response from believers.

God not only forgives sin. He also wants to transform how people live.

Much of what Paul teaches here about the moral duties of believers also appears in his other letters. However, Paul also addresses issues that were especially important for the church in Rome. One key issue was the disagreement between people who were weak in faith and people who were strong in faith(14:1–15:13).

Theme notes and profiles

Paul (Saul) Tolerance

Parallels

John 13:31–35 1 John 3:11–24

Glossary

Alms Bible, Manuscripts and Text of the (New Testament) Biblical Concept of Law Letter to the Romans Saints Spiritual Gifts

Topics

Christian Conduct: Being Liberal to Others Church Structure Church Ushers Commandments: Precepts of Paul--Explicitly Stated or Implied in Didactic Epistles Helping the Sick Hospitality: Commanded Hospitality: General Scriptures Concerning Liberality: General Scriptures Concerning Liberality: should be Exercised: Toward Saints Nurses Poor: Duty To Religion: True Sharing Sharing with Others The Poor: Give to Specially If Saints Ushering Ushers Welcoming