Romans 12:17-19
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The verse doesn't just say to be good, but to plan ahead for good deeds, making sure your actions are honorable not just in your own eyes or God's, but visibly so to everyone around you. This isn't about seeking human praise, but about so ordering your life that even critics have no valid reason to slander your faith.
Repay no one evil for evil, but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all. If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all. Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, “Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.”
English Standard Version (ESV)
Paul is instructing believers on how to live out their faith amidst a world that often opposes it, following his exhortations to love and spiritual service. He's moving from internal attitudes to outward actions, detailing how their lives should reflect Christ's teachings, especially when facing conflict or persecution from others. This particular verse sets the stage for how Christians should conduct themselves towards those who might wrong them, emphasizing a principled approach over impulsive reactions.
Ever felt that burning desire to 'get even' when someone wrongs you? Paul addresses this head-on, giving a command that's incredibly difficult but absolutely essential for followers of Christ.
Paul's instruction to 'repay no one evil for evil' isn't just a suggestion; it's a direct command. This means actively choosing not to retaliate when wronged, no matter how justified it might feel.
Beyond simply not doing harm, Paul calls us to actively pursue something positive – conduct that earns respect from everyone, even those who might wish us ill.
The second part of the verse, 'give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all,' is about proactive, intentional living.
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Understand the original words
kakos · Greek Adjective
Harmful actions or character; that which is morally corrupt and contrary to the nature and will of God.
kalos · Greek Adjective
That which is morally good, virtuous, or excellent in the eyes of God and humanity; actions that reflect Christian integrity.
eirēneuō · Greek Verb
The state of tranquility, reconciliation, and absence of conflict, especially in relationships; a central fruit of the Spirit.
agapētos · Greek Adjective
Dearly loved ones; a term of endearment used by apostles to address fellow believers as objects of God's love.
ekdikeō · Greek Verb
The act of taking justice or retribution into one's own hands, which is forbidden to believers because it usurps God's prerogative.
orgē · Greek Noun
The settled, righteous indignation of God against sin and evil; the divine execution of justice.
ekdikēsis · Greek Noun
The right and power of God to execute justice and retribution; humans are forbidden from exercising it because they lack perfect knowledge and righteousness.
Jesus directly commands his followers not to retaliate when wronged, echoing the 'repay no one evil for evil' principle with 'do not resist the one who is evil.'
1 Thessalonians 5:15This passage provides a strong parallel by urging believers to 'see that no one repays evil for evil, but always seek to do good to one another and to all.' It reinforces the active pursuit of good over passive non-retaliation.
1 Peter 3:9Peter connects the command not to repay evil for evil with a positive charge to bless, drawing a parallel to how Christ handled suffering and encouraging believers to inherit a blessing.
Proverbs 3:4The phrase 'do what is honorable in the sight of all' is deeply rooted in this Old Testament wisdom, which advises finding favor and good understanding in the eyes of God and man by acting honorably.
Philippians 4:8This verse expands on 'doing what is honorable' by directing believers to focus their minds on whatever is true, honorable, just, pure, lovely, and commendable, providing a fuller picture of what constitutes honorable conduct.
ellicottRomans 12:17: "Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men."
(17) Provide things honest . . . —Let your purposes be such that all men shall recognise their complete integrity. Do not engage in enterprises of a doubtful character, that might bring not only yourselves but the Christian body into ill repute. (Comp. Matthew 5:14-16 ; 2Corinthians 8:21 .)
vincentRomans 12:17: "Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men."
Provide (προνοούμενοι)The A.V. uses provide in its earlier and more literal meaning of taking thought in advance. This has been mostly merged in the later meaning of furnish, so that the translation conveys the sense of providing honestly for ourselves and our families. Better, as Rev., take thought for. The citation is from Proverbs 3:4, and varies from both Hebrew and Septuagint. Hebrew: And th…
The verse doesn't just say to be good, but to plan ahead for good deeds, making sure your actions are honorable not just in your own eyes or God's, but visibly so to everyone around you. This isn't about seeking human praise, but about so ordering your life that even critics have no valid reason to slander your faith.
Paul is instructing believers on how to live out their faith amidst a world that often opposes it, following his exhortations to love and spiritual service. He's moving from internal attitudes to outward actions, detailing how their lives should reflect Christ's teachings, especially when facing conflict or persecution from others. This particular verse sets the stage for how Christians should conduct themselves towards those who might wrong them, emphasizing a principled approach over impulsive reactions.
Paul is instructing believers on how to live out their faith amidst a world that often opposes it, following his exhortations to love and spiritual service. He's moving from internal attitudes to outward actions, detailing how their lives should reflect Christ's teachings, especially when facing conflict or persecution from others. This particular verse sets the stage for how Christians should conduct themselves towards those who might wrong them, emphasizing a principled approach over impulsive reactions.
"Repay no one evil for evil, but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all. If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all. Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is writ…" — The verse doesn't just say to be good, but to plan ahead for good deeds, making sure your actions are honorable not just in your own eyes or God's, but visibly so to everyone around you. This isn't…
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Last reviewed October 2026
