Romans 12:17

KJV

Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men.

KJV (with Strong's)

Recompense {G591} to no man {G3367} evil {G2556} for {G473} evil {G2556}. Provide {G4306} things honest {G2570} in the sight {G1799} of all {G3956} men {G444}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Repay no one evil for evil, but try to do what everyone regards as good.

Berean Standard Bible

Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Carefully consider what is right in the eyes of everybody.

American Standard Version

Render to no man evil for evil. Take thought for things honorable in the sight of all men.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Romans 12:17 is a pivotal instruction within Paul's ethical exhortations, guiding believers on how to navigate interpersonal relationships, especially when faced with hostility. It issues a dual command: first, to refrain from retaliating evil with evil, thereby breaking cycles of retribution; and second, to actively pursue and demonstrate what is honorable and morally excellent in the public sphere, ensuring their conduct serves as a commendable witness to all people. This verse encapsulates a core Christian ethic of grace-filled response and public integrity, flowing directly from a transformed mind and consecrated life.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Romans 12:17 is situated within the practical, ethical section of Paul's Epistle to the Romans, which begins in [Romans 12:1](/romans/12-1 "Romans 12:1 - A Living Sacrifice"). Having laid a profound theological foundation in the preceding eleven chapters concerning God's righteousness, human sinfulness, justification by faith, and the mystery of Israel, Paul transitions to the implications of these truths for daily Christian living. The initial call in [Romans 12:1-2](/romans/12-1-2 "Romans 12:1-2 - Transformed by the Renewal of Your Mind") is for believers to present their bodies as living sacrifices and to be transformed by the renewal of their minds. Following this, Paul addresses various aspects of community life, spiritual gifts, and particularly, how believers are to interact with both fellow Christians and the outside world. Verses [Romans 12:14-21](/romans/12-14-21 "Romans 12:14-21 - Instructions on Love and Non-Retaliation") specifically focus on the Christian's response to persecution and ill-treatment, emphasizing love, humility, and peacemaking, with verse 17 serving as a foundational principle for this non-retaliatory and publicly honorable conduct.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** First-century Roman society, like many ancient cultures, operated largely on a principle of honor and shame, often necessitating retaliation to preserve one's reputation or family honor. The concept of "an eye for an eye" (lex talionis), though originally a legal principle for proportionate justice, could easily devolve into personal vengeance. Christians, a minority group often misunderstood and persecuted, faced significant pressure to conform to societal norms or to defend themselves aggressively. Paul's instruction here stands in stark contrast to this prevailing ethos. Furthermore, the early church was under intense scrutiny; their conduct, both individually and corporately, served as a public testimony to the nature of their God and the power of their faith. Living "honestly in the sight of all men" was not merely about personal virtue but about the credibility of the Gospel message itself in a world watching closely.
* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes significantly to several major themes found within Romans and the broader Pauline corpus. The most prominent theme is **Non-Retaliation and Overcoming Evil with Good**. Paul explicitly commands against repaying evil for evil, echoing Jesus' radical teachings on loving enemies in [Matthew 5:38-48](/matthew/5-38-48 "Matthew 5:38-48 - Love Your Enemies"). This theme culminates in [Romans 12:21](/romans/12-21 "Romans 12:21 - Overcome Evil with Good"), urging believers to "overcome evil with good." Another crucial theme is **Public Witness and Christian Integrity**. The call to "provide things honest in the sight of all men" underscores the importance of a transparent, morally upright life that is visible and commendable to both believers and non-believers. This public integrity is essential for the Gospel's advancement and reflects the transformative power of Christ, as also seen in Paul's instructions regarding conduct in [Philippians 4:8](/philippians/4-8 "Philippians 4:8 - Think on These Things") and [Titus 2:7-8](/titus/2-7-8 "Titus 2:7-8 - Sound Speech and Blameless Conduct"). Finally, the verse speaks to **Practical Holiness and Consecration**, demonstrating how the theological truths of Romans 1-11 are to be lived out in concrete, ethical actions, embodying the "living sacrifice" mentioned in [Romans 12:1](/romans/12-1 "Romans 12:1 - A Living Sacrifice").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Recompense (Greek, _apodídōmi'_):** (G591) From ἀπό and δίδωμι; to give away, i.e. up, over, back, etc. (in various applications). This word signifies "to give back," "to pay back," or "to render." In this context, it carries the strong connotation of retribution or repayment. The negative command "to no man recompense" emphatically forbids the act of returning an evil deed with another evil deed, thereby breaking the cycle of vengeance.
* **Evil (Greek, _kakós'_):** (G2556) Apparently a primary word; worthless (intrinsically, such; whereas πονηρός properly refers to effects), i.e. (subjectively) depraved, or (objectively) injurious. This term describes what is intrinsically bad, harmful, or malicious. Its repetition ("evil for evil") highlights the nature of the forbidden exchange: a direct, retaliatory response of harmful action. It refers to moral depravity as well as that which causes injury or distress.
* **Honest (Greek, _kalós'_):** (G2570) Of uncertain affinity; properly, beautiful, but chiefly (figuratively) good (literally or morally), i.e. valuable or virtuous (for appearance or use, and thus distinguished from ἀγαθός, which is properly intrinsic). This word translates as "good," "noble," "honorable," or "excellent." It conveys a sense of moral beauty, attractiveness, and commendability, going beyond mere truthfulness to encompass actions that are ethically upright and aesthetically pleasing in a moral sense. It refers to that which is inherently good and praiseworthy.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Recompense to no man evil for evil."**: This is a direct and absolute prohibition against retaliation. The Greek construction "to no man" (μηδενὶ) emphasizes the universality of the command – it applies to everyone, regardless of their actions towards the believer. The phrase "evil for evil" (κακὸν ἀντὶ κακοῦ) uses the preposition "anti" (ἀντί), meaning "in the place of" or "instead of," clearly indicating a tit-for-tat exchange. Paul commands believers to break this cycle of retribution, refusing to respond to harm, insult, or injustice with a similar harmful response. This requires a supernatural restraint and a reliance on God's justice rather than personal vengeance.
* **"Provide things honest in the sight of all men."**: This second clause shifts from a negative prohibition to a positive exhortation. "Provide" (προνοέω, _pronoéō'_) means "to think beforehand," "to foresee," or "to provide for," implying active foresight, diligent effort, and intentional planning in one's conduct. The "things honest" (καλὰ, _kalá'_) refers to actions that are morally good, noble, honorable, and beautiful in character. The phrase "in the sight of all men" (ἐνώπιον πάντων ἀνθρώπων) stresses the public and visible nature of this conduct. Believers are not merely to avoid evil, but to actively pursue and demonstrate virtuous living in a way that is evident and commendable to everyone, including non-believers, ensuring their lives are a credible witness to the Gospel.

#### Literary Devices
Romans 12:17 employs several effective literary devices. The most prominent is **Antithesis**, where two contrasting ideas are presented in opposition: the negative command to *not* repay evil for evil is immediately followed by the positive command to *actively* provide what is good and honorable. This creates a powerful tension and highlights the dual nature of Christian ethics – both abstaining from wrong and proactively doing right. The verse also utilizes **Imperative Mood** in both clauses ("Recompense to no man," "Provide"), underscoring the direct, authoritative, and non-negotiable nature of these instructions. Furthermore, there is a subtle **Parallelism** in the structure of the two clauses, which, despite their contrasting content, are balanced in their directness, reinforcing the comprehensive scope of the ethical directive. This structure emphasizes that Christian living is not merely passive avoidance of sin but active engagement in righteousness, especially in public view.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Romans 12:17 encapsulates a profound theological truth about the transformed life in Christ, moving beyond mere human morality to a divine standard of conduct. It reflects God's own character, who "makes his sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust" ([Matthew 5:45](/matthew/5-45 "Matthew 5:45 - God's Impartial Goodness")). By refusing to repay evil for evil, believers participate in God's redemptive work, demonstrating grace and leaving vengeance to the Lord ([Romans 12:19](/romans/12-19 "Romans 12:19 - Leave Vengeance to God")). The call to "provide things honest" aligns with the broader biblical emphasis on integrity, righteousness, and living as "lights in the world" ([Philippians 2:15](/philippians/2-15 "Philippians 2:15 - Shining as Lights in the World")). This public demonstration of virtue is not for self-glory but for the glory of God, making the Gospel attractive and credible to a watching world. It is a practical outworking of the mind renewed by the Spirit, enabling believers to discern and enact God's good, pleasing, and perfect will.

* [Matthew 5:39](/matthew/5-39 "Matthew 5:39 - Turn the Other Cheek")
* [1 Peter 3:9](/1_peter/3-9 "1 Peter 3:9 - Do Not Repay Evil for Evil")
* [2 Corinthians 8:21](/2_corinthians/8-21 "2 Corinthians 8:21 - Provide What is Honorable")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Romans 12:17 presents a radical challenge to human nature and societal norms. In a world quick to retaliate, to "cancel," and to seek vengeance, this verse calls believers to a higher, Christ-like standard. It demands intentionality: first, the conscious decision to break the cycle of negativity, insult, or harm by refusing to respond in kind; and second, the proactive effort to live with undeniable integrity and moral excellence in every sphere of life. This isn't passive resignation but an active, Spirit-empowered choice to embody grace and truth. Our public conduct, whether in the workplace, on social media, or within our communities, becomes a powerful testimony. When we refuse to engage in gossip, slander, or revenge, and instead demonstrate fairness, kindness, and honesty, we showcase the transformative power of the Gospel. This verse encourages us to be strategic in our goodness, providing a compelling witness that disarms critics and draws others to the beauty of a life lived for Christ.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life am I most tempted to "recompense evil for evil," and how can I intentionally choose a different, Christ-like response?**
* **What does "providing things honest in the sight of all men" look like practically in my daily interactions, both online and offline?**
* **How does my public conduct reflect or hinder the credibility of the Gospel message to those around me?**
* **What specific steps can I take this week to proactively demonstrate goodness and integrity in a visible way?**

### FAQ

**What does "recompense to no man evil for evil" mean in practical terms?**

Answer: In practical terms, "recompense to no man evil for evil" means refusing to retaliate or seek revenge when someone wrongs you. If someone insults you, you do not insult them back. If someone cheats you, you do not cheat them in return. If someone harms you, you do not seek to harm them. Instead, it calls for a supernatural response of grace, forgiveness, and trust in God's ultimate justice, as further elaborated in [Romans 12:19](/romans/12-19 "Romans 12:19 - Leave Vengeance to God"), "Vengeance is Mine, I will repay, says the Lord." It's about breaking the cycle of negativity and choosing a path of peace and love, even towards adversaries.

**Why is it important to "provide things honest in the sight of all men"?**

Answer: It is crucial to "provide things honest in the sight of all men" because a believer's life is a public testimony to the Gospel. "Honest" here means what is noble, honorable, and morally beautiful. When Christians live with integrity, transparency, and ethical excellence in their public and private lives, it validates their faith and makes the message of Christ attractive and credible to a watching world. Conversely, hypocrisy or dishonest conduct can bring reproach upon the name of Christ and hinder the spread of the Gospel. This call aligns with Paul's instruction in [2 Corinthians 8:21](/2_corinthians/8-21 "2 Corinthians 8:21 - Providing for What is Honorable"), to "aim at what is honorable not only in the Lord's sight but also in the sight of man."

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Romans 12:17 finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. He perfectly embodied the principle of non-retaliation, never repaying evil for evil. When reviled, "he did not revile in return; when he suffered, he did not threaten, but continued entrusting himself to him who judges justly" ([1 Peter 2:23](/1_peter/2-23 "1 Peter 2:23 - Christ's Example of Suffering")). On the cross, facing the ultimate injustice, Jesus prayed for His persecutors, "Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do" ([Luke 23:34](/luke/23-34 "Luke 23:34 - Jesus Prays for His Executioners")), demonstrating the supreme act of not repaying evil for evil but offering grace. Furthermore, Jesus consistently "provided things honest in the sight of all men." His entire life was a public display of perfect righteousness, truth, and moral beauty. He was the "light of the world" ([John 8:12](/john/8-12 "John 8:12 - Jesus, the Light of the World")), whose actions were always honorable and whose character was blameless, even in the eyes of His enemies who could find no legitimate charge against Him ([John 18:38](/john/18-38 "John 18:38 - Pilate Finds No Guilt")). Through His sacrificial death, Christ not only broke the cycle of sin and death but also empowered believers, through the indwelling Holy Spirit, to live out the very commands of [Romans 12:17](/romans/12-17 "Romans 12:17 - Do Not Repay Evil for Evil"). We are called to imitate Him, reflecting His non-retaliatory love and His public integrity, thereby testifying to the transformative power of the Gospel.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Proverbs 20:22

¶ Say not thou, I will recompense evil; [but] wait on the LORD, and he shall save thee.

1 Thessalonians 5:15

See that none render evil for evil unto any [man]; but ever follow that which is good, both among yourselves, and to all [men].

Matthew 5:39

But I say unto you, That ye resist not evil: but whosoever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also.

1 Peter 3:9

Not rendering evil for evil, or railing for railing: but contrariwise blessing; knowing that ye are thereunto called, that ye should inherit a blessing.

2 Corinthians 8:20

Avoiding this, that no man should blame us in this abundance which is administered by us:

2 Corinthians 8:21

Providing for honest things, not only in the sight of the Lord, but also in the sight of men.

Philippians 4:8

Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things [are] honest, whatsoever things [are] just, whatsoever things [are] pure, whatsoever things [are] lovely, whatsoever things [are] of good report; if [there be] any virtue, and if [there be] any praise, think on these things.