Romans 12 8

Romans 12:8 kjv

Or he that exhorteth, on exhortation: he that giveth, let him do it with simplicity; he that ruleth, with diligence; he that sheweth mercy, with cheerfulness.

Romans 12:8 nkjv

he who exhorts, in exhortation; he who gives, with liberality; he who leads, with diligence; he who shows mercy, with cheerfulness.

Romans 12:8 niv

if it is to encourage, then give encouragement; if it is giving, then give generously; if it is to lead, do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully.

Romans 12:8 esv

the one who exhorts, in his exhortation; the one who contributes, in generosity; the one who leads, with zeal; the one who does acts of mercy, with cheerfulness.

Romans 12:8 nlt

If your gift is to encourage others, be encouraging. If it is giving, give generously. If God has given you leadership ability, take the responsibility seriously. And if you have a gift for showing kindness to others, do it gladly.

Romans 12 verses

Romans 12 8 Meaning

This verse, from Romans 12:8, highlights the virtue of generosity in Christian practice. It emphasizes a spirit of giving freely, without hesitation or pretense, to those in need. The quality of the giving is as important as the act itself.

Romans 12 8 Context

This verse is part of Romans chapter 12, which serves as practical exhortation for believers. Paul moves from theological exposition to practical living, detailing how Christians should function within the body of Christ and in the world. Following a discussion on various spiritual gifts, Paul turns to everyday attitudes and actions. This specific verse, speaking about the gift of giving, follows exhortations on serving, teaching, encouraging, contributing, and showing mercy. The overarching context is the transformation of the believer by the renewing of their mind (Romans 12:2) to live a life pleasing to God. This implies that such generous giving is not merely a social nicety but a God-honoring response. The emphasis on "generously" (Greek: haptos) connects to the idea of simplicity, sincerity, or uprightness in the act.

Romans 12 8 Word Analysis

• "he who gives": The Greek word used is ho metadidous (ὁ μεταδιδοὺς). This implies one who shares or imparts something from his own possessions. It suggests an active, willing distribution.

• "with sincerity": The Greek term is en haplotes (ἐν ἁπλότητι). Haplotes can mean simplicity, liberality, generosity, or pure-heartedness. It conveys the idea of giving without mixed motives, without guile, and with an open heart. It’s about the internal disposition matching the external act.

• "to whom": This refers to the recipient of the gift. The context implies recipients in need or those serving within the body of Christ, but the instruction is broad.

• "he who leads": The Greek word here is ho proistamenos (ὁ προϊστάμενος). This term means to stand before, preside over, manage, or care for. It implies leadership, oversight, and taking initiative in responsibility.

• "with diligence": The Greek is meta spoudes (μετὰ σπουδῆς). Spoude means haste, eagerness, diligence, earnestness. It points to a focused, energetic, and serious application to the task of leadership and administration, not slothfulness.

• "he who shows mercy": The Greek is ho eleon (ὁ ἐλεῶν). This refers to someone who exercises mercy, compassion, and kindness.

• "with cheerfulness": The Greek is hilarotes (ἱλαρότητι). This word signifies cheerful, jovial, or bountiful generosity. It evokes a joyful and willing spirit in showing mercy, rather than a burdensome or reluctant duty.

• Group Analysis: Giving and Leading/Mercy

  • The verse groups actions into two primary categories related to ministry within the body of Christ: "giving" and "leading/showing mercy."
  • Giving is to be done "with sincerity," highlighting the pure motive behind the action.
  • Leading and showing mercy are to be performed "with diligence" and "cheerfulness" respectively, indicating the manner of execution for these specific responsibilities. This contrasts the motivation for giving (sincerity) with the attitude for leading and showing mercy (diligence and cheerfulness).

Romans 12 8 Bonus Section

The concept of haplotes (sincerity/simplicity) in giving echoes God's uncalculated giving of His Son, a pure and unreserved act. The term hilarotes (cheerfulness) in showing mercy reflects the joy Christ experienced in accomplishing His work and His unending mercy towards us. The instruction is that our divine-given gifts should be exercised with characteristics that mirror God's own character, further sanctifying their use within the Christian community.

Romans 12 8 Commentary

This verse sets a high standard for believers exercising their gifts. Generosity, a key fruit of the Spirit, is not to be miserly but expansive. The emphasis on "sincerity" (haplotes) is crucial; true giving flows from an upright heart, free from ostentation or expectation of return. Similarly, leadership within the church requires careful attention and energetic execution, while the act of showing mercy, a reflection of God's own heart, must be done with genuine joy, not as a grim obligation. The conjunctions ("with," "with," "with") show that the how of the action is as significant as the what. It’s about a transformed inner life manifesting in outward actions, reflecting Christ’s character.

• Practical Usage Examples:
  • When giving financially to the church or a charity, give without trying to get public recognition, and ensure your motive is to honor God and help others.
  • If you are in a leadership position, be actively involved and proactive in your responsibilities, rather than being passive or lazy.
  • When visiting someone sick or in distress, do so with a willing heart and a smile, bringing comfort rather than a sense of obligation.