Romans 12:2

KJV

And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what [is] that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G2532} be {G4964} not {G3361} conformed {G4964} to this {G5129} world {G165}: but {G235} be ye transformed {G3339} by the renewing {G342} of your {G5216} mind {G3563}, that {G1519} ye {G5209} may prove {G1381} what {G5101} is that good {G18}, and {G2532} acceptable {G2101}, and {G2532} perfect {G5046}, will {G2307} of God {G2316}.

Complete Jewish Bible

In other words, do not let yourselves be conformed to the standards of the ‘olam hazeh. Instead, keep letting yourselves be transformed by the renewing of your minds; so that you will know what God wants and will agree that what he wants is good, satisfying and able to succeed.

Berean Standard Bible

Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what is the good, pleasing, and perfect will of God.

American Standard Version

And be not fashioned according to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is the good and acceptable and perfect will of God.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Romans 12:2 serves as a pivotal ethical exhortation following Paul's profound theological exposition in the preceding chapters, urging believers to reject the patterns and values of the fallen world. Instead, it calls for a radical, internal transformation of the mind, a continuous process of spiritual renewal. This profound change is not merely for personal sanctification but serves a crucial purpose: to enable believers to experientially discern and embrace the inherently good, pleasing, and perfect will of God for their lives, thereby living out their faith authentically in a way that honors Him.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse marks a significant transition in Paul's Epistle to the Romans, moving from the foundational theological doctrines of [Romans 1-11](/romans/1-11 "Romans 1-11 - Theological Foundations") to practical Christian living in [Romans 12-16](/romans/12-16 "Romans 12-16 - Practical Christian Living"). Specifically, [Romans 12:2](/romans/12-2 "Romans 12:2 - Be Transformed") immediately follows the profound call in [Romans 12:1](/romans/12-1 "Romans 12:1 - Living Sacrifice") for believers to present their bodies as "living sacrifices." Together, these two verses form a cohesive unit, establishing that the transformed life is a logical and spiritual response of worship to God's mercy. While [Romans 12:1](/romans/12-1 "Romans 12:1 - Present Your Bodies") addresses the outward act of dedication, [Romans 12:2](/romans/12-2 "Romans 12:2 - Renew Your Mind") delves into the essential internal prerequisite for such a life, emphasizing that genuine outward service flows from an inwardly renewed mind. The subsequent verses in [Romans 12](/romans/12 "Romans 12 - Gifts and Christian Living") then detail various practical outworkings of this transformed life within the community of faith and in relation to the world.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Paul wrote to believers in Rome, a city that was the epicenter of the Roman Empire, characterized by its diverse pagan religions, philosophical schools, imperial cult, and pervasive moral relativism. The "world" (Greek: _aiōn_) to which Paul refers was not merely the physical planet but the prevailing system of thought, values, and practices that stood in opposition to God's kingdom. Christians in Rome faced immense pressure to conform to the societal norms, which often included idolatry, sexual immorality, and self-serving ambition. Paul's exhortation was a radical call to counter-cultural living, challenging them to resist assimilation into a culture that glorified human achievement and power rather than divine truth and humble service. This message was particularly vital for a fledgling Christian community navigating a dominant, often hostile, pagan environment.
* **Key Themes:** [Romans 12:2](/romans/12-2 "Romans 12:2 - Transformation and Discerning God's Will") encapsulates several overarching themes present throughout Romans and Pauline theology. It reinforces the theme of **sanctification**, the ongoing process of being made holy, which is a direct consequence of justification by faith. The verse also highlights the **radical nature of Christian discipleship**, demanding a complete reorientation of one's entire being, not just external behaviors. Furthermore, it underscores the **supremacy of God's will** as the ultimate guide for life, emphasizing that true spiritual maturity involves discerning and aligning with His perfect design. This discernment is not achieved through human wisdom but through the **transformative power of the Holy Spirit** working through the renewed mind, a concept echoed in passages like [Ephesians 4:23](/ephesians/4-23 "Ephesians 4:23 - Be Renewed in the Spirit of Your Mind") and [2 Corinthians 3:18](/2_corinthians/3-18 "2 Corinthians 3:18 - Transformed into His Image").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **conformed (Greek, _syschēmatízō_):** From _sýn_ (with) and _schēma_ (form, outward appearance), this verb means to fashion alike, to conform to the same pattern, or to assume an outward shape. It implies a superficial, external adjustment to the prevailing standards or customs of the "world" (G165 _aiṓn_). The present imperative tense ("be not conformed") indicates a continuous, ongoing resistance to adopting the world's passing fads, values, and thought patterns.
* **transformed (Greek, _metamorphóō_):** Derived from _metá_ (change) and _morphóō_ (to form, shape), this word signifies a profound, internal change of nature or essence, from which we get the English word "metamorphosis." Unlike mere outward conformity, this is a deep, fundamental alteration of character and being, reflecting a new identity in Christ. The passive voice ("be ye transformed") suggests that this is something God does _to_ us, though it requires our active cooperation.
* **renewing (Greek, _anakaínōsis_):** From _anakaínō_ (to make new again, renovate), this noun refers to a renovation or qualitative renewal. It's not merely patching up the old, but bringing about a fresh, new state. This "renewing of your mind" (G3563 _noûs_) implies an ongoing process where the intellect, understanding, and moral disposition are progressively aligned with God's truth, replacing old, worldly thought patterns with divine ones.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And be not conformed to this world:"** This is a strong negative command, urging believers to actively resist the pervasive influence of the "world" (G165 _aiṓn_). "This world" refers not to the physical planet, but to the fallen, rebellious human system of values, ideologies, and behaviors that are antithetical to God's kingdom. To be "conformed" (G4964 _syschēmatízō_) means to adopt its outward patterns, fashions, and ways of thinking, often subtly and unconsciously. Paul calls for a deliberate, continuous non-assimilation.
* **"but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind,"** In stark contrast to outward conformity, this is a positive command for internal, radical change. "Transformed" (G3339 _metamorphóō_) denotes a complete change of nature, like a caterpillar becoming a butterfly, rather than a mere superficial adjustment. The means of this transformation is "by the renewing" (G342 _anakaínōsis_) of the "mind" (G3563 _noûs_). This refers to the intellect, understanding, and moral compass. It's an ongoing, active process of having one's thinking, values, and perspectives continually reshaped by divine truth, often through engagement with God's Word and the Holy Spirit.
* **"that ye may prove what [is] that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God."** This clause states the ultimate purpose or result of the mind's renewal. The verb "prove" (G1381 _dokimázō_) means to test, discern, or approve through experience. A renewed mind enables believers not just to intellectually grasp God's will, but to experientially recognize, confirm, and live out what is truly "good" (G18 _agathós_), "acceptable" (G2101 _euárestos_ - well-pleasing to God), and "perfect" (G5046 _téleios_ - complete, mature, lacking nothing). This implies a practical, lived discernment of God's specific desires and plans for one's life, which are always inherently beneficial and ultimately lead to spiritual maturity and flourishing.

#### Literary Devices
Paul employs several powerful literary devices in [Romans 12:2](/romans/12-2 "Romans 12:2 - A Call to Transformation"). The most prominent is **Contrast**, setting "be not conformed to this world" against "but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind." This antithesis highlights the two opposing paths available to the believer and emphasizes the radical shift required. The word "transformed" itself is a vivid **Metaphor** (from _metamorphóō_, "metamorphosis"), evoking the image of a complete and fundamental change in nature, far beyond a superficial alteration. This implies that Christian growth is not merely behavioral modification but an ontological shift. The verse also utilizes **Imperative Mood** in both its negative ("be not conformed") and positive ("be ye transformed") commands, underscoring the urgency and non-negotiable nature of these exhortations for Christian living. Finally, the use of the **Triadic List** ("good, and acceptable, and perfect") to describe God's will provides a comprehensive and affirming characterization, emphasizing its inherent excellence and desirability.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Romans 12:2 is a cornerstone for understanding Christian sanctification, asserting that true spiritual growth is an inward work of the Holy Spirit that progressively reorients the believer's mind and values away from worldly patterns towards divine truth. This transformation is not passive but requires active participation, as the renewed mind becomes the instrument through which God's will is discerned and embraced. It underscores the holistic nature of salvation, impacting not just one's eternal destiny but also one's daily thoughts, attitudes, and actions, leading to a life that genuinely pleases God and effectively serves His purposes in the world. This verse beautifully bridges the gap between sound doctrine and practical discipleship, demonstrating that right belief inevitably leads to right living.

* [Ephesians 4:22-24](/ephesians/4-22-24 "Ephesians 4:22-24 - Put Off the Old Self, Put On the New")
* [2 Corinthians 3:18](/2_corinthians/3-18 "2 Corinthians 3:18 - Transformed into Christ's Image")
* [Philippians 4:8](/philippians/4-8 "Philippians 4:8 - Think on These Things")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Romans 12:2 presents a profound challenge and a liberating invitation to every believer. It calls us to a conscious, daily resistance against the subtle and overt pressures of a world system that often promotes self-interest, fleeting pleasures, and relative truth. This resistance is not achieved through mere willpower or external conformity to a religious code, but through an ongoing, Spirit-empowered renewal of our inner landscape—our thoughts, desires, and perspectives. Practically, this means intentionally immersing ourselves in God's Word, cultivating a vibrant prayer life, and seeking fellowship with other believers who can sharpen our spiritual discernment. As our minds are progressively re-calibrated to divine truth, we gain clarity to "prove" or experientially verify God's will, recognizing its inherent goodness, its pleasing nature to Him, and its perfect design for our flourishing. This transformation empowers us to navigate complex moral dilemmas, make wise decisions, and live a life that genuinely reflects the character of Christ in a world desperately in need of His light.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what specific areas of your life do you find yourself most susceptible to being "conformed to this world"?**
* **What practical steps can you take this week to intentionally engage in the "renewing of your mind"?**
* **How has a renewed mind helped you to "prove" or discern God's will in a particular situation in your past?**

### FAQ
**What does Paul mean by "this world" in Romans 12:2?**

Answer: When Paul refers to "this world" (Greek: _aiōn_), he is not speaking of the physical planet or creation itself, which God declared "good" in [Genesis 1](/genesis/1 "Genesis 1 - The Creation Account"). Instead, he refers to the prevailing system of thought, values, and practices that are characteristic of fallen humanity, alienated from God. This includes cultural norms, societal pressures, dominant ideologies, and moral standards that are contrary to God's revealed will and kingdom principles. It encompasses the "spirit of the age" or the "course of this world" mentioned in [Ephesians 2:2](/ephesians/2-2 "Ephesians 2:2 - Course of This World"), which is under the influence of the "prince of the power of the air." The command is to resist adopting its patterns and perspectives, which are transient and ultimately destructive.

**Is the transformation mentioned in Romans 12:2 a one-time event or an ongoing process?**

Answer: The Greek verbs used in [Romans 12:2](/romans/12-2 "Romans 12:2 - Be Transformed") for "be not conformed" (_syschēmatízō_) and "be ye transformed" (_metamorphóō_) are in the present tense. This grammatical construction indicates an ongoing, continuous action. Therefore, transformation is not a singular event that happens at conversion, but rather a lifelong, progressive process of spiritual growth and sanctification. While conversion marks the beginning of a new identity in Christ ([2 Corinthians 5:17](/2_corinthians/5-17 "2 Corinthians 5:17 - New Creation")), the "renewing of your mind" is a continuous work of the Holy Spirit in cooperation with the believer's intentional engagement with God's Word ([Psalm 119:11](/psalm/119-11 "Psalm 119:11 - Your Word Have I Hid in My Heart")) and prayer. It's a daily yielding to God's influence, allowing Him to reshape our thoughts, attitudes, and desires.

**How does renewing the mind help a believer discern God's will?**

Answer: The "renewing of your mind" (G342 _anakaínōsis_ of G3563 _noûs_) is crucial for discerning God's will because our unrenewed, worldly minds are naturally biased, limited, and often darkened by sin ([Ephesians 4:17-18](/ephesians/4-17-18 "Ephesians 4:17-18 - Futility of Mind")). A mind that is being renewed by God's truth and the Holy Spirit becomes increasingly aligned with God's own thoughts and values. This spiritual alignment sharpens our spiritual senses, enabling us to "prove" (G1381 _dokimázō_ - test and approve) what God desires. It allows us to see situations from a divine perspective, understand biblical principles more deeply, and recognize the leading of the Spirit. This discernment is not merely intellectual but experiential, leading to a confident embrace of God's will, which is always "good, and acceptable, and perfect" ([Romans 12:2](/romans/12-2 "Romans 12:2 - God's Will")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Romans 12:2, while an ethical command for believers, finds its ultimate fulfillment and power in Christ. Jesus Himself perfectly embodied the transformed life, never conforming to the patterns of "this world" but always living in perfect alignment with the "good, and acceptable, and perfect will of God" ([John 4:34](/john/4-34 "John 4:34 - Jesus' Food is to Do God's Will")). His entire earthly ministry was a demonstration of a mind fully surrendered and renewed by the Father's purpose, culminating in His obedient sacrifice on the cross ([Philippians 2:5-8](/philippians/2-5-8 "Philippians 2:5-8 - Christ's Humility and Obedience")). For the believer, the ability to be "transformed by the renewing of your mind" is made possible only through union with Christ, who imparts His Spirit to us. It is by beholding "the glory of the Lord" in Christ that we are "being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another" ([2 Corinthians 3:18](/2_corinthians/3-18 "2 Corinthians 3:18 - Transformed into His Image")). Thus, the call to transformation is fundamentally a call to become more like Christ, allowing His mind ([1 Corinthians 2:16](/1_corinthians/2-16 "1 Corinthians 2:16 - We Have the Mind of Christ")) to increasingly shape our own, enabling us to walk in the fullness of God's will, just as He did.

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

1 Peter 1:14

As obedient children, not fashioning yourselves according to the former lusts in your ignorance:

Ephesians 4:22

That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts;

Ephesians 4:24

And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness.

2 Corinthians 5:17

Therefore if any man [be] in Christ, [he is] a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.

Colossians 3:10

And have put on the new [man], which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him:

1 John 2:15

Love not the world, neither the things [that are] in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him.

1 John 2:17

And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever.