That is, that I may be comforted together with you by the mutual faith both of you and me.
That {G1161}{G5124} is {G2076}, that I may be comforted together {G4837} with {G1722} you {G5213} by {G1223}{G1722} the mutual {G240} faith {G4102} both {G5037} of you {G5216} and {G2532} me {G1700}.
or, to put it another way, so that by my being with you, we might, through the faith we share, encourage one another.
that is, that you and I may be mutually encouraged by each other’s faith.
that is, that I with you may be comforted in you, each of us by the other’s faith, both yours and mine.
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1 Thessalonians 3:7
Therefore, brethren, we were comforted over you in all our affliction and distress by your faith: -
1 Thessalonians 3:10
Night and day praying exceedingly that we might see your face, and might perfect that which is lacking in your faith? -
3 John 1:3
¶ For I rejoiced greatly, when the brethren came and testified of the truth that is in thee, even as thou walkest in the truth. -
3 John 1:4
I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth. -
Titus 1:4
To Titus, [mine] own son after the common faith: Grace, mercy, [and] peace, from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ our Saviour. -
2 Peter 1:1
¶ Simon Peter, a servant and an apostle of Jesus Christ, to them that have obtained like precious faith with us through the righteousness of God and our Saviour Jesus Christ: -
2 Corinthians 7:13
Therefore we were comforted in your comfort: yea, and exceedingly the more joyed we for the joy of Titus, because his spirit was refreshed by you all.
Context
This verse follows Paul's expression of his deep desire to visit the believers in Rome (Romans 1:10-11). He has just stated his longing to impart some spiritual gift to them so they might be established. In verse 12, he clarifies that this visit isn't just about him giving; it's a reciprocal relationship. He anticipates receiving as much as he gives, highlighting the dynamic of mutual encouragement within the Christian community. This sets the stage for the theme of faith that runs throughout the letter. Paul sees the gospel as a power for salvation for everyone who believes, as he states later in Romans 1:16.
Key Themes
Linguistic Insights
The phrase "comforted together" comes from the Greek word sumparaklethēnai (συμπαρακληθῆναι), which is a passive infinitive meaning "to be encouraged together" or "to be exhorted together." The prefix sym- (συν) means "with" or "together," strongly emphasizing the shared, mutual nature of the experience. The word parakaleō (παρακαλέω), from which it derives, can mean to comfort, encourage, exhort, or appeal.
"Mutual faith" translates the Greek phrase tēs en allēlois pisteōs (τῆς ἐν ἀλλήλοις πίστεως), literally "the faith among one another." This highlights that their faith is not isolated but is active and present within their relationship with each other. It is the common faith they share in Christ that serves as the basis for this mutual comfort.
Practical Application
Romans 1:12 reminds us that the Christian life is not meant to be lived in isolation. We need fellowship with other believers for encouragement, support, and growth. Just as Paul desired to be comforted by the faith of the Roman Christians, we too can find strength and perspective by sharing our faith journeys, struggles, and victories with others in the church. Actively participating in Christian community, whether through gathering for worship, small groups, or personal discipleship, is vital for mutual building up and encouragement. Our faith, when shared, becomes a source of comfort not only to ourselves but also to those around us.