Romans 12:3

For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think [of himself] more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith.

For {G1063} I say {G3004}, through {G1223} the grace {G5485} given {G1325} unto me {G3427}, to every man {G3956} that is {G5607} among {G1722} you {G5213}, not {G3361} to think of himself more {G3844} highly {G5252} than {G3739} he ought {G1163} to think {G5426}; but {G235} to think {G5426} soberly {G1519}{G4993}, according as {G5613} God {G2316} hath dealt {G3307} to every man {G1538} the measure {G3358} of faith {G4102}.

For I am telling every single one of you, through the grace that has been given to me, not to have exaggerated ideas about your own importance. Instead, develop a sober estimate of yourself based on the standard which God has given to each of you, namely, trust.

For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but think of yourself with sober judgment, according to the measure of faith God has given you.

For I say, through the grace that was given me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but so to think as to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to each man a measure of faith.

Romans 12:3 (KJV): "For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think [of himself] more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith."

Context

Romans 12 marks a pivotal transition in Paul's letter. After eleven chapters establishing profound theological doctrines concerning sin, salvation by grace through faith, and God's plan for Israel, Paul shifts his focus to the practical implications of these truths for Christian living. This chapter begins with a foundational call to spiritual devotion and transformation of the mind (Romans 12:1-2). Verse 3 then introduces the essential attitude required for believers to function effectively and harmoniously within the church, emphasizing humility and a balanced self-assessment as the basis for understanding and exercising spiritual gifts.

Key Themes

  • Apostolic Authority and Divine Grace: Paul prefaces his instruction with, "For I say, through the grace given unto me." This highlights his divinely appointed authority as an apostle (see Romans 1:5) and underscores that his ministry and words are empowered by God's unmerited favor, not human wisdom or merit. His admonition carries divine weight.
  • Sober Self-Assessment vs. Pride: The core command is a direct warning against arrogance and self-exaltation. Believers are instructed "not to think [of himself] more highly than he ought to think." This addresses the human tendency towards conceit, spiritual pride, or an inflated sense of one's own importance or abilities within the community of faith. Instead, they are to "think soberly," which means to have a sound, balanced, and realistic view of oneself, free from self-delusion.
  • The Measure of Faith: This crucial phrase refers to the unique portion or capacity of faith and spiritual gifting that God has sovereignly distributed to each individual believer. It implies that every spiritual ability or talent is a divine endowment, not something earned or self-generated. This "measure of faith" serves as the basis for the diversity of spiritual gifts and functions within the body of Christ, which Paul elaborates on in the subsequent verses (Romans 12:4-8).

Linguistic Insights

  • The Greek word translated "to think more highly than he ought to think" is hyperphroneō (ὑπερφρονέω). This compound word literally means "to think above" or "to think beyond," conveying the idea of arrogance, conceit, or having an inflated opinion of oneself.
  • In contrast, "to think soberly" comes from the Greek sōphroneō (σωφρονέω), which means to be of sound mind, to be sensible, to exercise self-control, or to have a modest and reasonable estimation of oneself. It emphasizes a healthy, balanced, and humble mental state.

Practical Application

Romans 12:3 offers vital guidance for believers today:

  • Cultivate Humility: Recognize that all gifts, talents, and opportunities for service come from God's grace. This understanding prevents pride and fosters gratitude, reminding us that we have nothing that we did not receive (see 1 Corinthians 4:7).
  • Serve According to God's Gifting: Understand that God has uniquely equipped each believer with a specific "measure of faith" and corresponding abilities. Our service should flow from this divine distribution, focusing on using what God has given us rather than comparing ourselves to others or striving for roles beyond our God-given capacity.
  • Promote Unity in the Church: When each member embraces humility and understands their unique, God-given place within the body of Christ, it fosters harmony and prevents division. This foundational humility is crucial for the effective and healthy functioning of the church, enabling members to serve each other in love and respect (Ephesians 4:16).
Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Galatians 6:3

    For if a man think himself to be something, when he is nothing, he deceiveth himself.

  • Philippians 2:3

    [Let] nothing [be done] through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves.

  • Philippians 2:8

    And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.

  • Proverbs 26:12

    ¶ Seest thou a man wise in his own conceit? [there is] more hope of a fool than of him.

  • 1 Peter 5:5

    ¶ Likewise, ye younger, submit yourselves unto the elder. Yea, all [of you] be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble.

  • Romans 12:16

    [Be] of the same mind one toward another. Mind not high things, but condescend to men of low estate. Be not wise in your own conceits.

  • 1 Peter 5:8

    ¶ Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:

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