Romans 12:17

"Be of the same mind one toward another. Don’t set your mind on high things, but associate with the humble. Don’t be wise in your own conceits."

Key Reflection

In the first-century Roman culture, where social hierarchy and pride were deeply ingrained, Paul's instruction to be of one mind, not set your heart on high things, and associate with the humble was revolutionary. By urging believers not to covet status or elevate themselves above others, he encouraged a spirit of humility and solidarity, counteracting the prevailing social norms that often led to division and conflict within communities.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

Verse 17. Recompense. Render, give, or return. See Barnes "Mt 5:39". This is probably one of the most difficult precepts of Christianity; but the law of Christ on the subject is unyielding. It is a solemn demand made on all his followers, and it must be obeyed. Provide. The word rendered provide means, properly, to think or mediate beforehand. Make it a matter of previous thought, of settled plan, of design. This direction would make it a matter of principle and fixed purpose to do that which is right; and not to leave it to the fluctuations of feeling, or to the influence of excitement. The same direction is given in 2 Co 8:21. Things honest. Literally, things beautiful, or comely.

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