Romans 12:10
[Be] kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another;
Be kindly affectioned {G5387} one to another {G1519}{G240} with brotherly love {G5360}; in honour {G5092} preferring {G4285} one another {G240};
Love each other devotedly and with brotherly love; and set examples for each other in showing respect.
Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Outdo yourselves in honoring one another.
In love of the brethren be tenderly affectioned one to another; in honor preferring one another;
Cross-References
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John 13:34 (34 votes)
A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. -
John 13:35 (34 votes)
By this shall all [men] know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another. -
Philippians 2:3 (34 votes)
[Let] nothing [be done] through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. -
Hebrews 13:1 (29 votes)
¶ Let brotherly love continue. -
1 John 4:11 (24 votes)
Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another. -
1 Peter 3:8 (18 votes)
¶ Finally, [be ye] all of one mind, having compassion one of another, love as brethren, [be] pitiful, [be] courteous: -
1 Peter 3:9 (18 votes)
Not rendering evil for evil, or railing for railing: but contrariwise blessing; knowing that ye are thereunto called, that ye should inherit a blessing.
Commentary
Context
Romans chapter 12 marks a significant pivot in Paul's epistle. After eleven chapters dedicated to profound theological exposition on topics like sin, justification by faith, the law, and God's sovereign plan for Israel and the Gentiles, Paul shifts to practical Christian living. This transition begins with the powerful appeal in Romans 12:1-2, urging believers to present their bodies as living sacrifices and not to be conformed to the world. The verses immediately preceding Romans 12:10 discuss the unity and diversity within the body of Christ, emphasizing the proper use of spiritual gifts for mutual edification (Romans 12:4-8). Verse 9 then introduces a series of concise exhortations on genuine Christian love and conduct, setting the stage for the specific instruction in verse 10 regarding interpersonal relationships within the church community.
Key Themes
Linguistic Insights
The KJV phrase "kindly affectioned" translates the Greek word philostorgoi (φιλόστοργοι). This is a compound word combining philos (love, affection, friendship) and storge (natural family affection). It conveys a tender, warm, and devoted love, like that shared within a close-knit family. It's a love that is gentle and caring, not merely intellectual or duty-bound. The term "brotherly love" is philadelphia (φιλαδελφία), which literally means "love of brothers." This emphasizes the familial bond among Christians as children of the same Heavenly Father.
The command "in honour preferring one another" comes from the Greek tē timē allēlous proēgoumenoi (τῇ τιμῇ ἀλλήλους προηγούμενοι). The word proēgoumenoi means "leading the way," "going before," or "taking the initiative." Thus, it's not just about giving honor when it's due, but actively seeking opportunities to honor others, to elevate their standing, and to put their interests first. It implies a proactive humility that seeks to serve and uplift fellow believers.
Practical Application
Romans 12:10 is highly practical for daily Christian living and church life. It challenges believers to:
Reflection
This verse serves as a cornerstone for healthy Christian community. It calls believers to embody the self-giving love of Christ in their interactions, moving from mere tolerance to active, affectionate, and honoring relationships. When Christians are "kindly affectioned" and "in honour preferring one another," they not only strengthen their own fellowship but also powerfully demonstrate the transformative power of the Gospel to a world often marked by self-interest and division. It is a continuous call to grow in Christ-like character, making love the defining characteristic of our lives together.
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