New Testament
Romans 12:9
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In Romans 12:9, Paul emphasizes the importance of genuine love among believers.
- Author
- Paul the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 57
- Genre
- Letter (epistle)
- Original Audience
- Christians in Rome
Let love be without hypocrisy. Abhor what is evil; cling to what is good.
Let love be without dissimulation. Abhor that which is evil; cleave to that which is good.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In Romans 12:9, Paul emphasizes the importance of genuine love among believers. He instructs that love should be sincere and free from pretense or deceit. This means that our love for others should be authentic and not just for show. Additionally, Paul urges us to hate what is evil and to hold tightly to what is good. This dual command highlights the need for discernment in our lives; we should actively reject immoral actions and influences while embracing and promoting goodness. The call to love without hypocrisy also suggests that our actions should align with our beliefs, fostering a community where love is the foundation of all relationships. By doing so, we reflect the character of Christ, who exemplified perfect love and righteousness. This verse serves as a reminder that true love is not just a feeling but an active choice to pursue what is right and good, both in our relationships and in our moral choices. Explore related authenticity.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Romans 12:9 to your life
To apply this verse, strive to show authentic love in your relationships. Avoid superficial interactions and instead, engage deeply with others. Make conscious choices to reject negative influences and surround yourself with goodness, whether in friendships, media, or personal habits.
Curated for this public verse page. Romans Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Romans 12:9 mean?
Romans 12:9 emphasizes the need for sincere love among believers, urging them to love genuinely without pretense. It also instructs to reject evil and embrace what is good, highlighting the importance of moral discernment in relationships.
What is the meaning of 'love without hypocrisy' in Romans 12:9?
'Love without hypocrisy' means that our love should be authentic and not just for show. It calls for a genuine commitment to care for others, reflecting true intentions and actions in our relationships.
How can I apply Romans 12:9 in my life?
You can apply Romans 12:9 by showing authentic love in your relationships and avoiding superficial interactions. Additionally, make choices that reject negative influences and surround yourself with positive, good influences.
What is the overall message of Romans 12:9?
The overall message of Romans 12:9 is to cultivate genuine love while rejecting evil and embracing good. It encourages believers to align their actions with their beliefs, fostering a loving and moral community.

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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