Romans 12:12-18 - Joseph Benson’s Commentary on the Old and New Testaments

Rejoicing in hope Of perfect holiness and everlasting happiness; or of the glory of God; (Romans 5:2;) and of eternal life, Titus 1:2; patient in tribulation To which you may be exposed for the cause of Christ, or in whatever you may be called to suffer, according to the wise disposals of God's gracious providence; continuing instant in prayer That you may stand firm in the faith, and have a seasonable deliverance from your trouble. Distributing to the necessities of the saints As far as is in your power; accounting nothing your own which their relief requires you to communicate. It is remarkable that the apostle, treating expressly of the duties flowing from the communion of saints, yet never says one word about the dead. Given to, διωκοντες, pursuing hospitality Not only embracing those that offer, but seeking opportunities to exercise it: a precept this, which the present circumstances of Christians rendered peculiarly proper, and indeed necessary; especially toward those strangers that were exiles from their own country, or were travelling in the cause of Christianity. To which we may add, that the want of public inns, (which were much less common than among us,) rendered it difficult for strangers to get accommodations. Bless That is, wish well to, and pray for, them which persecute you That pursue you with evil intentions, and find means to bring upon you the greatest sufferings. Bless, and curse not No, not in your hearts, whatever provocations you may have to do so. Rejoice with them that do rejoice, &c. Maintain a constant sympathy with your Christian brethren, as the relation in which you stand to them, as members of the same body, requires. Be of the same mind one toward another Desire for others the same good which you wish for yourselves. Or, “let each condescend to the rest, and agree with them as far as he fairly and honourably can: and where you must differ, do not by any means quarrel about it, but allow the same liberty of sentiments you would claim.” So Doddridge. Mind not high things Desire not riches, honour, or the company of the great; but condescend to men of low estate To the meanest concerns of the meanest Christians, and stoop to all offices of Christian kindness toward them. Be not wise in your own conceits So as to think you do not need the guidance of the divine wisdom, or the advice and counsel of your Christian brethren, Proverbs 3:5; Proverbs 3:7. Recompense to no man evil for evil Nor imagine that any man's injurious treatment of you will warrant your returning the injury. Provide things honest in the sight of all men Think beforehand: contrive to give as little offence as may be to any. Take care that you do only such things as are justifiable and unexceptionable; such as may be above the need of excuse, and may appear, at the first view, fair and reputable. The word προνοουμενοι, rendered provide, signifies, to think of the proper method of doing a thing, before we proceed to action. If it be possible That is, so far as it may be done, 1st. Without dishonouring God; 2d, With a good conscience; 3d, If men's abuses be not insufferable; that is, as far as is consistent with duty, honour, and conscience; live peaceably with all men Even with heathen and unbelievers, with whom you have any dealings.