Romans 12:9

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

Modern
Love must be sincere. Detest what is evil; cling to what is good.
Traditional
Let love be without dissimulation. Abhor that which is evil; cleave to that which is good.
Literal
Let love be unfeigned: abhorring evil, cleaving to good,
Latin
Dilectio sine simulatione: odientes malum, adhærentes bono:

Original

Greek
English
Love must be sincere. Detest what is evil; cling to what is good.

Notes

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).

Parallels

John 13:31–35 1 John 3:11–24

Glossary

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

Topics

Celebrating Halloween Commandments: Precepts of Paul--Explicitly Stated or Implied in Didactic Epistles Dating and Relationships Emotions Goodness Holiness: General Scriptures Concerning Love of Man for Man Love to Man: Saints should be Sincere In Moving On Religion: True Sin: should be Abhorred Sincerity: should Characterise: Our Love to One Another Sincerity: should Characterize: Our Love to One Another The Jezebel Spirit