New Testament
Romans 12:10
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 7th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In Romans 12:10, Paul encourages believers to show deep love and commitment to each other, likening this affection to that of a close family.
- Author
- Paul the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 57
- Genre
- Letter (epistle)
- Original Audience
- Christians in Rome
Be devoted to one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor.
Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another;
Plain Meaning
Paul tells believers to treat each other with the warm affection of a close family. 'Kindly affectioned' means having genuine, tender care — the kind you feel for someone you love, not just polite friendliness. 'Brotherly love' reinforces that: treat fellow believers like brothers and sisters. 'In honour preferring one another' means actively putting others ahead of yourself — looking for ways to show them respect before you look for it yourself.
Read It in Context
Paul is giving a list of practical instructions for how believers should treat each other inside the church. Verse 9 just said love must be genuine, without pretending. Verse 10 builds on that by spelling out what genuine love looks like in action.
The full Clear view adds what to notice, common misreadings, and the passage that best explains this one — for Romans 12:10 and any verse in the Bible.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In Romans 12:10, Paul encourages believers to show deep love and commitment to each other, likening this affection to that of a close family. The phrase 'outdo one another in showing honor' suggests that we should actively seek to elevate and respect each other, creating a community where everyone feels valued. This verse emphasizes the importance of relationships within the church, urging members to prioritize kindness and respect. By treating each other with brotherly love, we reflect the love of Christ and strengthen our bonds. This mutual respect and honor can lead to a more unified and supportive community, where individuals are encouraged to grow in their faith and serve one another selflessly. Overall, this verse calls for a culture of love and honor among believers, which is essential for a healthy and vibrant church life.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Romans 12:10 to your life
To apply this verse, make a conscious effort to show kindness and respect to those around you. Look for opportunities to honor others, whether through compliments, acts of service, or simply listening. Cultivating a spirit of love and respect can transform relationships and strengthen community bonds.
Curated for this public verse page. Romans Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Romans 12:10 mean?
Romans 12:10 encourages believers to show deep love and commitment to one another, similar to the affection found in close families. It emphasizes the importance of honoring and respecting each other within the community.
What is the meaning of 'brotherly affection' in Romans 12:10?
'Brotherly affection' in Romans 12:10 refers to a deep, familial love among believers, highlighting the need for strong, supportive relationships within the church.
How can I apply Romans 12:10 in my life?
To apply Romans 12:10, actively seek opportunities to show kindness and respect to others, such as giving compliments or helping those in need, to strengthen community bonds.
What does 'outdo one another in showing honor' mean?
'Outdo one another in showing honor' means to actively strive to elevate and respect each other, creating an environment where everyone feels valued and appreciated.
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