Romans 15:3

For even Christ pleased not himself; but, as it is written, The reproaches of them that reproached thee fell on me.

For {G1063} even {G2532} Christ {G5547} pleased {G700} not {G3756} himself {G1438}; but {G235}, as {G2531} it is written {G1125}, The reproaches {G3680} of them that reproached {G3679} thee {G4571} fell {G1968} on {G1909} me {G1691}.

For even the Messiah did not please himself; rather, as the Tanakh says, β€˜The insults of those insulting you fell on me.’

For even Christ did not please Himself, but as it is written: β€œThe insults of those who insult You have fallen on Me.”

For Christ also pleased not himself; but, as it is written, The reproaches of them that reproached thee fell upon me.

Commentary

Romans 15:3 serves as a foundational example for Christian conduct, following directly from Paul's exhortation in Romans 15:1-2 for stronger believers to bear the infirmities of the weak and to please their neighbor for their good.

Context

In Romans chapter 15, Paul continues his discussion from earlier chapters about unity within the diverse Christian community in Rome. He addresses the tension between Jewish and Gentile believers, and specifically between "strong" and "weak" Christians concerning matters of conscience (like dietary laws or observing special days). Paul's central argument is that believers should prioritize mutual acceptance and edification over personal preferences or judgments. This verse anchors that call to unity and self-sacrifice in the ultimate example: Jesus Christ Himself.

Key Themes

  • Christ's Selflessness and Humility: The primary message is that Jesus Christ did not live to please Himself. His entire life and ministry were characterized by obedience to God the Father and service to humanity. He consistently put the needs and salvation of others before His own comfort or desires, setting the supreme standard for all believers. This echoes the profound self-emptying described in Philippians 2:5-8.
  • Bearing Reproach for God's Sake: Paul quotes Psalm 69:9, a messianic psalm that speaks of the suffering of the righteous one. The "reproaches" (Greek: oneidismos - insults, scorn, disgrace) directed at God were borne by Christ. This highlights Jesus' identification with God's honor and His willingness to endure shame and suffering on behalf of God and His people. It signifies that Christ absorbed the hostility and contempt that humanity directed towards God.
  • The Example for Believers: If Christ, being God, did not please Himself but endured suffering for others, how much more should His followers prioritize the good of their brothers and sisters in Christ? This verse reinforces the call for believers to live lives of service and sacrifice, putting aside personal rights and preferences for the sake of unity and the gospel.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "pleased not himself" translates the Greek aresko (ἀρέσκω), meaning "to please, to be agreeable to." It emphasizes aligning one's will and actions with another's, rather than pursuing self-gratification. The term "reproaches" (Greek: oneidismos) powerfully conveys the idea of insults, public disgrace, and verbal abuse. Christ willingly took on this burden, demonstrating His profound love and obedience.

Practical Application

Romans 15:3 challenges Christians to examine their own lives:

  • Prioritize Others: Are we living to please ourselves, or are we seeking to serve and build up those around us, especially within the church?
  • Embrace Humility: Christ's example calls us to a life of humility, where personal comfort or reputation takes a backseat to God's will and the welfare of others.
  • Endure for the Gospel: Just as Christ bore reproach, believers may face criticism or misunderstanding when standing for truth or serving others. This verse encourages patient endurance, knowing we follow in His footsteps.

Ultimately, this verse encourages believers to imitate Christ's profound selflessness, fostering unity and love within the body of Christ by putting the needs of others above their own, just as Jesus did for us.

Note: If the commentary doesn’t appear instantly, please allow 2–5 seconds for it to load. It is generated by Gemini 2.5 Flash using a prompt focused on Biblical fidelity over bias. While the insights have been consistently reliable, we encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit.

Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated β€” the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Psalms 69:9

    For the zeal of thine house hath eaten me up; and the reproaches of them that reproached thee are fallen upon me.

  • 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.

  • John 4:34

    Jesus saith unto them, My meat is to do the will of him that sent me, and to finish his work.

  • Psalms 89:50

    Remember, Lord, the reproach of thy servants; [how] I do bear in my bosom [the reproach of] all the mighty people;

  • Psalms 89:51

    Wherewith thine enemies have reproached, O LORD; wherewith they have reproached the footsteps of thine anointed.

  • John 6:38

    For I came down from heaven, not to do mine own will, but the will of him that sent me.

  • John 5:30

    I can of mine own self do nothing: as I hear, I judge: and my judgment is just; because I seek not mine own will, but the will of the Father which hath sent me.
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