New Testament

Romans 12:21

The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English

At a Glance

In Romans 12:21, the Apostle Paul encourages believers to resist the temptation to respond to evil with more evil.

Author
Paul the apostle
Written
Around AD 57
Genre
Letter (epistle)
Original Audience
Christians in Rome
CBTClear Bible Translation

Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.

KJVKing James Version

Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In Romans 12:21, the Apostle Paul encourages believers to resist the temptation to respond to evil with more evil. Instead, he urges them to counteract wrongdoing with acts of goodness. This verse highlights the importance of maintaining integrity and kindness, even when faced with hostility or injustice. It serves as a reminder that responding to negativity with positivity can break the cycle of harm and promote healing. By choosing to do good, individuals can transform their environment and influence others positively. This principle is not just about personal conduct; it reflects a broader spiritual truth that good can triumph over evil. The call to overcome evil with good emphasizes the power of love, compassion, and moral strength in the face of adversity. It challenges believers to rise above their instincts and societal pressures, embodying a higher standard of behavior that reflects their faith and values.

How to apply Romans 12:21 to your life

In daily life, when faced with negativity or conflict, choose to respond with kindness and understanding. Instead of retaliating, look for opportunities to do good, whether through acts of service, forgiveness, or simply showing compassion. This approach can transform relationships and communities.

Curated for this public verse page. Romans Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Romans 12:21 mean?

Romans 12:21 means that instead of responding to evil with more evil, we should counteract wrongdoing with goodness. It encourages maintaining integrity and kindness, even in the face of hostility.

What is the meaning of 'overcome evil with good' in Romans 12:21?

The phrase 'overcome evil with good' means that by choosing to act positively and kindly, we can counteract negative actions and influence our surroundings for the better.

How can I apply Romans 12:21 in my life?

You can apply Romans 12:21 by choosing to respond to conflict with kindness and understanding. Look for ways to do good, such as offering forgiveness or showing compassion, instead of retaliating.

What themes are present in Romans 12:21?

Themes in Romans 12:21 include overcoming evil, the power of goodness, moral integrity, and the importance of responding positively to hostility.

The Book of Romans
Book Summary

The Book of Romans

Romans 1: Paul's Greeting and the Wrath of God Against Ungodliness

Paul introduces himself as a servant of Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle and separated to preach the gospel of God. He says this gospel concerns God's Son, Jesus Christ our Lord, who is made of the seed of David according to the flesh and declared to be the Son of God with power by the resurrection from the dead. Paul explains that through Christ he receives grace and apostleship to bring about obedience of faith among all nations. He addresses the believers in Rome as those loved by God and called to be saints, and he gives thanks for their faith, which is spoken of throughout the whole world. He tells them he prays continually to visit them and longs to see them so he may share a spiritual gift and be comforted together with them by mutual faith.

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