Romans 12 21

Romans 12:21 kjv

Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.

Romans 12:21 nkjv

Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.

Romans 12:21 niv

Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.

Romans 12:21 esv

Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.

Romans 12:21 nlt

Don't let evil conquer you, but conquer evil by doing good.

Romans 12 verses

Romans 12 21 Meaning

The instruction to overcome evil with good, presented at the end of Romans 12, is a powerful call to action for believers. It encapsulates the transformative power of Christ’s love, which compels Christians not to retaliate or mirror the hostility of the world, but to actively respond with kindness and righteousness. This principle is not a suggestion but a command, reflecting the character of God Himself, who blesses and extends grace even to those who oppose Him. It is a forward-looking, positive command that implies perseverance and enduring love even in the face of persistent opposition.

Romans 12 21 Context

Romans chapter 12 concludes a section focused on practical Christian living. Paul has laid out various instructions for believers regarding their relationship with God, their community, and the wider world. He has urged them to be living sacrifices, to not conform to this world, to have humility, to use their gifts edifyingly, to love sincerely, to rejoice in hope, and to be patient in suffering. Specifically, in the preceding verses (Romans 12:17-20), Paul has directly addressed the proper Christian response to those who wish them harm. He instructs them not to repay evil for evil, but to provide what is good in the sight of all, and even to feed their enemy if they are hungry, and give them drink if they are thirsty. This final verse, "Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good," serves as the overarching principle that underpins these specific commands. Historically, the early Christians often faced social ostracism, persecution, and misrepresentation from the Roman society, making these instructions particularly relevant to their daily experiences.

Romans 12 21 Word Analysis

• Μὴ (Mē): A negative particle, primarily used to prohibit or prevent. It conveys an imperative negative. It emphasizes that what follows should not be done.
• ἡττῶ (hēttō): A verb meaning "to be overcome," "to be conquered," "to be defeated." In this context, it implies succumbing to the power or influence of evil. The present imperative passive form suggests a continuous state of being potentially overcome, and the command is to not allow that to happen.
• ὑπὸ (hypo): A preposition meaning "by," "under," or "from." Here, it indicates the agent or source of being overcome, which is "evil."
• τοῦ (tou): The definite article, masculine genitive singular, referring to "evil."
• κακοῦ (kakou): The genitive masculine singular form of the adjective κακός (kakos), meaning "bad," "evil," "wicked," or "harmful." Here, it functions as a noun, "evil."
• ἀλλὰ (alla): A conjunction meaning "but," "rather," or "instead." It introduces a strong contrast or a substitution for the negative statement.
• ἡττῶ (hēttō): This is the second instance of the verb, but in the present imperative active form. It means "overcome," "conquer," "vanquish." This is the positive command – to actively gain victory.
• τὸ (to): The definite article, neuter accusative singular, referring to "good."
• ἀγαθῷ (agathō): The dative neuter singular form of the adjective ἀγαθός (agathos), meaning "good," "noble," "virtuous." Used here as a noun, "good." The dative case signifies the means or instrument by which evil is to be overcome.

Groups of words analysis:

• Μὴ ἡττῶ ὑπὸ τοῦ κακοῦ (Mē hēttō hypo tou kakou): This phrase means "Do not be overcome by evil." The passive voice of "hēttō" signifies that evil itself possesses the power to overcome or conquer, and the believer is to resist yielding to that power. The prohibition is to prevent becoming subject to the destructive nature and influence of evil.
• ἀλλὰ ἡττῶ τὸ ἀγαθῷ (alla hēttō to agathō): This contrasting phrase means "but overcome with good." The active voice of "hēttō" places the responsibility on the believer to be the active agent of victory. The instrumental dative case of "agathō" (good) indicates that "good" is the weapon or strategy employed for overcoming evil. This highlights a proactive and strategic approach to spiritual warfare.

Romans 12 21 Bonus Section

The dual use of the verb "hēttō" (to be overcome/to overcome) in this single verse creates a powerful chiastic structure, emphasizing the active choice and responsibility of the believer. The passive "be overcome by evil" is contrasted with the active "overcome evil with good." This reflects a dynamic relationship with the world, where the believer is called to be an agent of positive change, reflecting God’s nature. This is not merely about enduring suffering but about transforming it through divine love and action. The concept of "good" (agathō) here refers not just to morally upright behavior but to benevolent, gracious, and beneficial actions that mirror the character of God, as exemplified by Christ. This proactive overcoming demonstrates a spiritual strength that is inherent in the follower of Christ, a strength that emanates from being empowered by the Holy Spirit.

Romans 12 21 Commentary

This verse is the crucial summary and motivation for the preceding instructions on handling suffering and antagonism. It encapsulates a core tenet of Christian ethics: the refusal to descend to the level of one's adversaries. Instead of allowing evil’s influence to dominate or corrupt, the believer is called to actively use goodness as the means of conquest. This is not passivity or turning a blind eye to injustice, but a strategic, love-driven engagement that seeks to disarm and transform, rather than retaliate. It echoes the victory of Christ Himself, who, through His sacrificial death and resurrection, overcame the power of sin and death, not by fighting fire with fire, but by offering Himself as the ultimate good.

• Practical Application: When someone wrongs you, resist the urge to respond with anger or hurtful words. Instead, offer a kind word, a prayer, or a helpful action. This may involve setting boundaries firmly but without malice, or it may involve demonstrating sacrificial love that baffles the offender.
• Intentionality: Overcoming evil with good requires intentional effort and a steadfast reliance on the Holy Spirit. It is a deliberate choice to reflect God’s character, even when it is difficult.
• Focus: The focus is not on personal revenge but on demonstrating God's goodness and truth in the world, potentially leading to the offender's repentance.