Romans 1:12 kjv

That is, that I may be comforted together with you by the mutual faith both of you and me.

Romans 1:12 nkjv

that is, that I may be encouraged together with you by the mutual faith both of you and me.

Romans 1:12 niv

that is, that you and I may be mutually encouraged by each other's faith.

Romans 1:12 esv

that is, that we may be mutually encouraged by each other's faith, both yours and mine.

Romans 1:12 nlt

When we get together, I want to encourage you in your faith, but I also want to be encouraged by yours.

Romans 1 verses

Romans 1 12 Meaning

Romans 1:12 expresses the apostle Paul’s profound desire for a reciprocal spiritual exchange upon his visit to the believers in Rome. This verse clarifies his motivation stated in the preceding verse (v. 11) for imparting spiritual gifts, asserting that the interaction will not be a one-way flow from him to them, but a mutual encouragement and strengthening through their shared faith. It highlights the interdependency within the body of Christ, where all believers, regardless of their spiritual maturity or apostolic standing, can mutually edify and comfort one another in their faith.

Romans 1 12 Context

Romans 1:12 appears within Paul’s extended salutation and introduction to his epistle to the church in Rome. After introducing himself and declaring his apostolic mission, Paul expresses his fervent desire to visit the Roman believers (v. 8-10). In verse 11, he states that his longing to see them is "that I may impart to you some spiritual gift to strengthen you." Verse 12 immediately follows as a clarification and profound addition to this intent, ensuring the Roman Christians understand that his visit is not solely for his benefit or a one-sided impartation, but for mutual encouragement. This underscores Paul’s humility and his recognition of the Roman believers' existing faith, which he values as much as they might value his own. Historically, the Roman church was likely composed of both Jewish and Gentile believers, having faced expulsion and re-entry from Rome, and thus navigating issues of unity, differing practices, and persecution. Paul’s emphasis on mutual encouragement speaks directly to the need for solidarity and strengthening within such a diverse and challenged community in the heart of the Roman Empire.

Romans 1 12 Word analysis

• that is, (τοῦτο δέ ἐστιν – touto de estin): This phrase functions as a clarification or an explanation of the preceding statement (verse 11). Paul is further detailing his purpose in wishing to visit them. It bridges his desire to "impart a spiritual gift" with the true, two-way nature of the encounter.
• that we may be mutually encouraged (συνπαρακληθῆναι – synparaklethenai): This is a key term.
  • συν- (syn-): The prefix meaning "with," "together," or "mutually." It emphasizes a shared, reciprocal action.
  • παρακληθῆναι (paraklethenai): Derived from the verb parakaleo, meaning "to call alongside," "to appeal to," "to exhort," "to comfort," or "to encourage." In this passive form, it means "to be encouraged/comforted/exhorted."
  • Combined, "synparaklethenai" strongly conveys the idea of reciprocal encouragement, comfort, and exhortation among individuals. It indicates that the spiritual benefit is not just from Paul to them, but also from them to Paul, showing profound humility on his part. This goes beyond mere fellowship to a dynamic interaction that strengthens spiritual resolve.
• by each other's faith (διὰ τῆς ἐν ἀλλήλοις πίστεως – dia tēs en allēlois pisteōs):
  • διὰ (dia): "Through" or "by means of." This indicates the instrument or means by which the mutual encouragement will occur.
  • τῆς ἐν ἀλλήλοις (tēs en allēlois): "The [faith] in one another." "Allelois" means "one another" or "each other," again underscoring mutuality. "En" (in) emphasizes that this faith resides within each of them.
  • πίστεως (pisteōs): "Faith." This is more than just intellectual assent; it refers to the whole spectrum of trust in God, loyalty to Christ, the confession of belief, and the outward demonstration and fruit of that belief in one's life. The sight of another's genuine, living faith is a powerful source of encouragement and spiritual strength.

Words-group by words-group analysis:

• "that is, that we may be mutually encouraged": This phrase refines Paul's previously stated intention. It elevates the goal from merely imparting a gift to a communal spiritual strengthening. The emphasis on "mutual" shifts the dynamic from a hierarchical apostolic visitation to a fellowship of equals in Christ, all benefiting from each other's spiritual walk. It reveals Paul’s true heart, desiring not just to give, but also to receive and be built up.
• "by each other's faith, both yours and mine": This directly states the source and nature of the mutual encouragement. It is not based on spiritual gifts exclusively, but on the simple, shared reality of their personal faith in Christ. Paul acknowledges that the faith he witnesses in the Roman believers, as much as his own, will serve as the conduit for this divine comfort and strengthening. This recognition validates the spiritual state of the Roman church, acknowledging their genuine walk with Christ. The explicit mention of "both yours and mine" leaves no ambiguity about the two-way street of spiritual nourishment.

Romans 1 12 Bonus section

The concept of "mutual encouragement" expressed in Romans 1:12 reflects the very heart of Christian fellowship, going beyond mere social interaction to a dynamic, Spirit-filled communion. It anticipates later Pauline themes on the unity of the body of Christ, where each part contributes to the health and growth of the whole (e.g., 1 Cor 12). Paul's emphasis on mutual benefit demonstrates a core tenet of apostolic ministry: while leaders are to teach and equip, they are not exempt from the need for spiritual encouragement from the congregation. This humility from an apostle like Paul sets a precedent for leaders throughout church history, modeling interdependency rather than spiritual elitism. The verse implies that faith is not a static concept but a living reality that can be observed, shared, and grow stronger through communal interaction. It subtly teaches that healthy spiritual growth is not isolated but flourishes in supportive environments where believers genuinely engage with and validate each other's walk with Christ. This communal aspect of faith also strengthens resilience against external pressures and internal doubts, making the church a beacon of stability and spiritual nourishment in a challenging world.

Romans 1 12 Commentary

Romans 1:12 serves as a pivotal clarification of Paul's apostolic humility and his vision for communal spiritual life. After stating his desire to "impart a spiritual gift" (v. 11), a phrase that could imply a one-sided transaction from a superior apostle to less mature believers, Paul immediately corrects this impression. He asserts that his visit is equally motivated by the desire "that we may be mutually encouraged," a profound admission of his own need for spiritual sustenance from the Roman believers. The strength of the Greek term synparaklethenai underscores a shared spiritual refreshment and exhortation that happens within the fellowship. This mutual uplift comes "by each other's faith," signifying that observing and connecting with the genuine, living faith of other believers—demonstrated in their resilience, conviction, and obedience—is a powerful catalyst for spiritual growth and comfort for all involved. This verse champions the interdependence of believers in Christ, highlighting that the Body of Christ is designed for reciprocal support and edification, fostering a vibrant, supportive, and Spirit-empowered community. For example, witnessing another's perseverance in trials can inspire one's own faith, just as one's sharing of God's grace can strengthen another's resolve.