diff --git a/en_tn_46-ROM.tsv b/en_tn_46-ROM.tsv index 55b767450c..0574830a09 100644 --- a/en_tn_46-ROM.tsv +++ b/en_tn_46-ROM.tsv @@ -1,5 +1,5 @@ Book Chapter Verse ID SupportReference OrigQuote Occurrence GLQuote OccurrenceNote -ROM front intro gtn1 0 # Introduction to Romans\n\n## Part 1: General Introduction\n\n### Outline of the book of Romans\n\n1. Introduction (1:1–15)\n2. Main Theme: Righteousness is received by trusting in Jesus Christ (1:16–17)\n3. All mankind is condemned because of sin (1:18–3:20)\n4. Righteousness is received through Jesus Christ by trusting in him (3:21–5:21)\n5. Becoming like Christ in this life (6:1–8:39)\n6. God’s plan for Israel (9:1–11:36)\n7. Instructions for living as Christians (12:1–15:13)\n8. Conclusion (15:14–16:27)\n\n### Who wrote the book of Romans?\n\nThe Apostle Paul wrote the book of Romans and may other books in the New Testament. Paul was from the city of Tarsus. He had been known as Saul in his early life. Before becoming a Christian, Paul was part of a strict Jewish religious group called the Pharisees. He persecuted Christians. After he became a Christian, he traveled several times throughout the Roman Empire telling people about Jesus.\n\nPaul probably wrote this letter while he was staying in the city of Corinth during his third trip through the Roman Empire.\n\n### What is the book of Romans about?\n\nPaul wrote this letter to the Christians in Rome. Paul wanted to get them ready to receive him when he visited them. He said his purpose was to “bring about the obedience of faith” ([16:26](../16/26.md)).\n\nIn this letter Paul most fully described the gospel of Jesus Christ. He explained that both Jews and non-Jews have sinned, and God will forgive them and declare them righteous only if they believe in Jesus (chapters 1–11). Then he gave them practical advice for how believers should live (chapters 12–16),\n\n### How should the title of this book be translated?\n\nTranslators may choose to call this book by its traditional title, “Romans.” Or they may choose a clearer title, such as “Paul’s Letter to the Church in Rome,” or “A Letter to the Christians in Rome.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])\n\n## Part 2: Important Religious and Cultural Concepts\n\n### What are the titles used to refer to Jesus?\n\nIn Romans, Paul described Jesus Christ by many titles and descriptions: Jesus Christ (1:1), the Seed of David (1:3), the Son of God (1:4), the Lord Jesus Christ (1:7), Christ Jesus (3:24), Propitiation (3:25), Jesus (3:26), Jesus our Lord (4:24), Lord of Hosts (9:29), a Stumbling Stone and Rock of Offence (9:33), the End of the Law (10:4), the Deliverer (11:26), Lord of the Dead and the Living (14:9), and the Root of Jesse (15:12).\n\n### How should theological terms in Romans be translated?\n\nPaul uses many theological terms that are not used in the four Gospels. As early Christians learned more about the meaning of Jesus Christ and his message, they needed words and expressions for new ideas. Some examples of these words are “justification” (5:1), “works of the law” (3:20), “reconcile” (5:10), “propitiation” (3:25), “sanctification” (6:19), and “the old man” (6:6). If your language doesn’t have similar words, you can develop short phrases to communicate these ideas. For example, the term “gospel” can be translated as “the good news about Jesus Christ.”\n\nTranslators should also remember that some of these terms have more than one meaning. The meaning will depend on how the author is using the word in that particular passage. For example, “righteousness” sometimes means that a person obeys God’s law. At other times, “righteousness” means that Jesus Christ has perfectly obeyed God’s law for us.\n\n### What did Paul mean by “a remnant” of Israel ([11:5](../11/05.md))?\n\nThe idea of a “remnant” is important both in the Old Testament and for Paul. Most of the Israelites were either killed or scattered among other people when the Assyrians and then the Babylonians conquered their land. Only a relatively few Jews survived. They were known as “the remnant.”\n\nIn [11:1–9](../11/01.md), Paul speaks of another remnant. This remnant is the Jews whom God saved because they believed in Jesus. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/remnant]])\n\n## Part 3: Important Translation Issues\n\n### What did Paul mean by being “in Christ”?\n\nThe phrase “in Christ” and similar phrases occur in 3:24; 6:11, 23; 8:1,2,39; 9:1; 12:5,17; 15:17; and 16:3,7,9,10. Paul used these kinds of phrases as a metaphor to express that Christian believers belong to Jesus Christ. Belonging to Christ means the believer is saved and is made a friend with God. The believer is also promised to live with God forever. However, this idea can be difficult to represent in many languages.\n\nThese phrases also have specific meanings that depend on how Paul used them in a particular passage. For example, in [3:24](../03/24.md) (“the redemption that is in Christ Jesus”), Paul referred to our being redeemed “because” of Jesus Christ. In [8:9](../08/09.md) (“you are not in the flesh but in the Spirit”), Paul spoke of believers submitting “to” the Holy Spirit. In [9:1](../09/01.md) (“I tell the truth in Christ”), Paul meant that he is telling the truth that “is in agreement with” Jesus Christ.\n\nNevertheless, the basic idea of our being united with Jesus Christ (and with the Holy Spirit) is seen in these passages as well. Therefore, the translator has a choice in many passages that use “in.” He will often decide to represent the more immediate sense of “in,” such as, “by means of,” “in the manner of,” or “in regard to.” But, if possible, the translator should choose a word or phrase that represents the immediate sense and the sense of “in union with.” (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/inchrist]])\n\n### How are the ideas of “holy,” “saints” or “holy ones,” and “sanctify” represented in Romans in the ULT?\n\nThe scriptures use such words to indicate any one of various ideas. For this reason, it is often difficult for translators to represent them well in their versions. In translating into English, the ULT uses the following principles:\n\n* Sometimes the meaning in a passage implies moral holiness. Especially important for understanding the gospel is the fact that God considers Christians to be sinless because they are united to Jesus Christ. Another related fact is that God is perfect and faultless. A third fact is that Christians are to conduct themselves in a blameless and faultless manner in life. In these cases, the ULT uses “holy,” “holy God,” “holy ones” or “holy people.” (See: [1:7](../01/07.md))\n* Sometimes the meaning in a passage indicates a simple reference to Christians without implying any particular role filled by them. In cases where some other English versions have “saints” or “holy ones,” the ULT uses “believers.” (See: 8:27; 12:13; 15:25, 26, 31; 16:2, 15)\n* Sometimes the meaning in a passage indicates the idea of someone or something set apart for God alone. In these cases, the ULT uses “set apart,” “dedicated to,” “consecrated,” or “reserved for.” (See: [15:16](../15/16.md))\n\nThe UST will often be helpful as translators think about how to represent these ideas in their own versions.\n\n### What are the major issues in the text of the book of Romans?\n\nFor the following verses, modern version of the Bible differ from older versions. The ULT includes the modern reading and puts the older reading in a footnote.\n\n* “he \\[God\\] works all things together for good” ([8:28](../08/28.md)). Some older versions read, “All things work together for good.”\n* “But if it is by grace, it is no longer by works. Otherwise grace would no longer be grace” ([11:6](../11/06.md)). Some older versions read: “But if it is by works, then is it no more grace: otherwise work is no more work.”\n\nThe following verse is not in the best ancient copies of the Bible. Translators are advised not to include this verse. However, if in the translators’ region there are older Bible versions that have this verse, the translators can include it. If it is translated, it should be put inside square brackets (\\[\\]) to indicate that it is probably not original to the book of Romans.\n\n* “May the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen” ([16:24](../16/24.md)).\n\n(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants]]) +ROM front intro gtn1 0 # Introduction to Romans

## Part 1: General Introduction

### Outline of the book of Romans

1. Introduction (1:1–15)
2. Main Theme: Righteousness is received by trusting in Jesus Christ (1:16–17)
3. All mankind is condemned because of sin (1:18–3:20)
4. Righteousness is received through Jesus Christ by trusting in him (3:21–5:21)
5. Becoming like Christ in this life (6:1–8:39)
6. God’s plan for Israel (9:1–11:36)
7. Instructions for living as Christians (12:1–15:13)
8. Conclusion (15:14–16:27)

### Who wrote the book of Romans?

The Apostle Paul wrote the book of Romans and may other books in the New Testament. Paul was from the city of Tarsus. He had been known as Saul in his early life. Before becoming a Christian, Paul was part of a strict Jewish religious group called the Pharisees. He persecuted Christians. After he became a Christian, he traveled several times throughout the Roman Empire telling people about Jesus.

Paul probably wrote this letter while he was staying in the city of Corinth during his third trip through the Roman Empire.

### What is the book of Romans about?

Paul wrote this letter to the Christians in Rome. Paul wanted to get them ready to receive him when he visited them. He said his purpose was to “bring about the obedience of faith” ([16:26](../16/26.md)).

In this letter Paul most fully described the gospel of Jesus Christ. He explained that both Jews and non-Jews have sinned, and God will forgive them and declare them righteous only if they believe in Jesus (chapters 1–11). Then he gave them practical advice for how believers should live (chapters 12–16),

### How should the title of this book be translated?

Translators may choose to call this book by its traditional title, “Romans.” Or they may choose a clearer title, such as “Paul’s Letter to the Church in Rome,” or “A Letter to the Christians in Rome.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

## Part 2: Important Religious and Cultural Concepts

### What are the titles used to refer to Jesus?

In Romans, Paul described Jesus Christ by many titles and descriptions: Jesus Christ (1:1), the Seed of David (1:3), the Son of God (1:4), the Lord Jesus Christ (1:7), Christ Jesus (3:24), Propitiation (3:25), Jesus (3:26), Jesus our Lord (4:24), Lord of Hosts (9:29), a Stumbling Stone and Rock of Offence (9:33), the End of the Law (10:4), the Deliverer (11:26), Lord of the Dead and the Living (14:9), and the Root of Jesse (15:12).

### How should theological terms in Romans be translated?

Paul uses many theological terms that are not used in the four Gospels. As early Christians learned more about the meaning of Jesus Christ and his message, they needed words and expressions for new ideas. Some examples of these words are “justification” (5:1), “works of the law” (3:20), “reconcile” (5:10), “propitiation” (3:25), “sanctification” (6:19), and “the old man” (6:6). If your language doesn’t have similar words, you can develop short phrases to communicate these ideas. For example, the term “gospel” can be translated as “the good news about Jesus Christ.”

Translators should also remember that some of these terms have more than one meaning. The meaning will depend on how the author is using the word in that particular passage. For example, “righteousness” sometimes means that a person obeys God’s law. At other times, “righteousness” means that Jesus Christ has perfectly obeyed God’s law for us.

### What did Paul mean by “a remnant” of Israel ([11:5](../11/05.md))?

The idea of a “remnant” is important both in the Old Testament and for Paul. Most of the Israelites were either killed or scattered among other people when the Assyrians and then the Babylonians conquered their land. Only a relatively few Jews survived. They were known as “the remnant.”

In [11:1–9](../11/01.md), Paul speaks of another remnant. This remnant is the Jews whom God saved because they believed in Jesus. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/remnant]])

## Part 3: Important Translation Issues

### What did Paul mean by being “in Christ”?

The phrase “in Christ” and similar phrases occur in 3:24; 6:11, 23; 8:1,2,39; 9:1; 12:5,17; 15:17; and 16:3,7,9,10. Paul used these kinds of phrases as a metaphor to express that Christian believers belong to Jesus Christ. Belonging to Christ means the believer is saved and is made a friend with God. The believer is also promised to live with God forever. However, this idea can be difficult to represent in many languages.

These phrases also have specific meanings that depend on how Paul used them in a particular passage. For example, in [3:24](../03/24.md) (“the redemption that is in Christ Jesus”), Paul referred to our being redeemed “because” of Jesus Christ. In [8:9](../08/09.md) (“you are not in the flesh but in the Spirit”), Paul spoke of believers submitting “to” the Holy Spirit. In [9:1](../09/01.md) (“I tell the truth in Christ”), Paul meant that he is telling the truth that “is in agreement with” Jesus Christ.

Nevertheless, the basic idea of our being united with Jesus Christ (and with the Holy Spirit) is seen in these passages as well. Therefore, the translator has a choice in many passages that use “in.” He will often decide to represent the more immediate sense of “in,” such as, “by means of,” “in the manner of,” or “in regard to.” But, if possible, the translator should choose a word or phrase that represents the immediate sense and the sense of “in union with.” (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/inchrist]])

### How are the ideas of “holy,” “saints” or “holy ones,” and “sanctify” represented in Romans in the ULT?

The scriptures use such words to indicate any one of various ideas. For this reason, it is often difficult for translators to represent them well in their versions. In translating into English, the ULT uses the following principles:

* Sometimes the meaning in a passage implies moral holiness. Especially important for understanding the gospel is the fact that God considers Christians to be sinless because they are united to Jesus Christ. Another related fact is that God is perfect and faultless. A third fact is that Christians are to conduct themselves in a blameless and faultless manner in life. In these cases, the ULT uses “holy,” “holy God,” “holy ones” or “holy people.” (See: [1:7](../01/07.md))
* Sometimes the meaning in a passage indicates a simple reference to Christians without implying any particular role filled by them. In cases where some other English versions have “saints” or “holy ones,” the ULT uses “believers.” (See: 8:27; 12:13; 15:25, 26, 31; 16:2, 15)
* Sometimes the meaning in a passage indicates the idea of someone or something set apart for God alone. In these cases, the ULT uses “set apart,” “dedicated to,” “consecrated,” or “reserved for.” (See: [15:16](../15/16.md))

The UST will often be helpful as translators think about how to represent these ideas in their own versions.

### What are the major issues in the text of the book of Romans?

For the following verses, modern version of the Bible differ from older versions. The ULT includes the modern reading and puts the older reading in a footnote.

* “he \\[God\\] works all things together for good” ([8:28](../08/28.md)). Some older versions read, “All things work together for good.”
* “But if it is by grace, it is no longer by works. Otherwise grace would no longer be grace” ([11:6](../11/06.md)). Some older versions read: “But if it is by works, then is it no more grace: otherwise work is no more work.”

The following verse is not in the best ancient copies of the Bible. Translators are advised not to include this verse. However, if in the translators’ region there are older Bible versions that have this verse, the translators can include it. If it is translated, it should be put inside square brackets (\\[\\]) to indicate that it is probably not original to the book of Romans.

* “May the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen” ([16:24](../16/24.md)).

(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants]]) ROM 1 intro hn5n 0 # Romans 1 General Notes

## Structure and formatting

1. Introduction (1:1–15)
* Greeting (1:1–7)
* Paul plans to visit Rome (1:8–15)
2. Main Theme: Righteousness is received by having faith in Jesus Christ (1:16–17)
3. All mankind is condemned because of sin (1:18–3:20)
* All non-Jews have sinned (1:18–32)

## Special concepts in this chapter

### The gospel

This chapter refers to the contents of the Book of Romans as “the gospel” ([1:2](../rom/01/02.md)). Romans is not a Gospel like Matthew, Mark, Luke, or John, which are historical accounts of the life of Jesus. Instead, chapters 1–8 present the biblical gospel, which is the good news of salvation. The gospel contains the following true ideas: Everyone has sinned. Jesus died for our sins. Jesus came back to life again so that we might live for his glory and receive eternal life when we die.

### Universal Condemnation and the Wrath of God

In this chapter Paul explains that no one has an excuse for sinning. We all know about the true God, Yahweh, from his creation all around us. Because of our sin and our sinful nature, every person justly deserves the eternal punishment of God. The requirement for this punishment was satisfied by Jesus dying on a cross for those who believe in him. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/believe]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/sin]])

## Important figures of speech in this chapter

### “God gave them over”

Many scholars view the phrases “God gave them over” and “God gave them up” as theologically significant. For this reason, it is important to translate these phrases with God playing a passive role in the action. God allows men to pursue their own sinful desires, he does not force them to act sinfully. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) ROM 1 1 x3em figs-123person Παῦλος 1 Paul In the culture of this time, letter writers would give their own names first. Your language may have a particular way of introducing the author of a letter, and if it would be helpful to your readers, you could use it here. Alternate translation: “From Paul” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]]) ROM 1 1 plvo translate-names Παῦλος 1 Paul **Paul** is the name of a man, an apostle of Jesus. See the information about him in Part 1 of the Introduction to Romans. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]]) @@ -1120,13 +1120,12 @@ ROM 6 23 cwkw figs-possession τὸ…χάρισμα τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 For the ROM 6 23 jn66 figs-metaphor ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ 1 For the wages of sin are death Paul speaks figuratively of **eternal life** as if it were occupying space inside of **Christ Jesus**. Paul means that **eternal life** comes by being united to **Christ Jesus**, as stated in [verse 11](../06/11.md). If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternative translation: “for those who are united to Christ Jesus” or “comes through being united to Christ Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) ROM 7 intro fl1y 0 # Romans 7 General Notes

## Structure and formatting

5. Becoming like Christ in this life (6:1–8:39)
* Baptism represents union with Christ’s death (6:1–14)
* Christians are now slaves of righteousness (6:15–23)
* Christians have been freed from the law (7:1–6)
* The law is not sinful (7:7–12)
* Christians still struggle with indwelling sin (7:13–25)

## Special concepts in this chapter

### “The Law”

Throughout most of this chapter Paul uses the singular noun “the law” to refer to the group of laws that God gave Israel through Moses. However, in [verses 21–25](../07/21.md) Paul uses the word “law” in several different ways. Each of these different uses will be addressed in the notes. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/lawofmoses]])

## Important figures of speech in this chapter

### Marriage

Scripture commonly uses marriage as a metaphor. Here Paul uses it to describe how the church relates to the law of Moses and now to Christ. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

## Possible translation difficulties in this chapter

### Inclusive language

In this chapter the pronouns “we”, “us”, and “our” refer inclusively to all Jewish believers in Christ. Paul calls these people “brothers” in [verses 1](../07/01.md) and [4](../07/04.md). Your language may require you to mark these forms. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]]) ROM 7 1 mk7w figs-rquestion ἢ ἀγνοεῖτε, ἀδελφοί (γινώσκουσιν γὰρ νόμον λαλῶ), ὅτι ὁ νόμος κυριεύει τοῦ ἀνθρώπου ἐφ’ ὅσον χρόνον ζῇ? 1 do you not know, brothers … that the law controls a person for as long as he lives? Paul is using a rhetorical question here to emphasize that the Jew is required to obey the Law of Moses his whole life. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “You surely know, brothers (for I am speaking to those who know the law), that the law is lord of the man for as long as he lives!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]]) -ROM 7 1 guk4 figs-gendernotations ἀδελφοί 1 brothers Although the term **brothers** is masculine, Paul is using the word here to refer to both male and female Jewish believers in Christ. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “fellow Jewish Christians” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])\n -ROM 7 1 s4su (γινώσκουσιν γὰρ νόμον λαλῶ) 1 brothers Here Paul interrupts himself in order to clarify that he is specifically directing this part of the letter to the Jewish believers in the church at Rome. If this would be confusing in your language, you could add parentheses like the ULT or use a natural way in your language to indicate this. +ROM 7 1 guk4 figs-gendernotations ἀδελφοί 1 brothers Although the term **brothers** is masculine, Paul is using the word here to refer to both male and female Jewish believers in Christ. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “fellow Jewish Christians” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])ROM 7 1 s4su (γινώσκουσιν γὰρ νόμον λαλῶ) 1 brothers Here Paul interrupts himself in order to clarify that he is specifically directing this part of the letter to the Jewish believers in the church at Rome. If this would be confusing in your language, you could add parentheses like the ULT or use a natural way in your language to indicate this. ROM 7 1 j67x grammar-connect-logic-result γὰρ 1 brothers Here, **for** indicates that what follows is the reason why Paul expects these **brothers** to understand what he is saying. Use the most natural way in your language to state a reason. Alternate translation: “I know you should understand this because” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]]) ROM 7 1 ajk4 writing-pronouns λαλῶ 1 brothers The pronoun **I** and throughout this chapter refers to Paul (see [6:19](../06/19.md)). If this might confuse your readers, you could say this explicitly. Alternate translation: “I, Paul, am speaking” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]]) ROM 7 1 k3h5 grammar-collectivenouns νόμον…ὁ νόμος 1 brothers For every occurrence of **the law** in [verses 1–20](../07/01.md) translate the phrase in the same way you translated it in [2:12](../02/12.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns]]) ROM 7 1 okz5 figs-personification ὁ νόμος κυριεύει τοῦ ἀνθρώπου 1 brothers Here Paul speaks of **the law** figuratively as if it were a king. Paul means that, like a king, **the law** must be obeyed by those who are obligated to do so. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly or with a simile. Alternate translation: “like a king, the law must be obeyed by every Jewish person” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]]) -ROM 7 1 r9fl figs-gendernotations τοῦ ἀνθρώπου…ζῇ 1 Although **the man** and **he** are masculine, Paul is using the words here in a generic sense that includes both males and females. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “a person … that person lives” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]]) +ROM 7 1 r9fl figs-gendernotations τοῦ ἀνθρώπου…ζῇ 1 Although **the man** and **he** are masculine, Paul is using the words here in a generic sense that includes both males and females. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “a person … that person lives” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]]) ROM 7 2 as1h grammar-connect-words-phrases γὰρ 1 **For** here indicates that what follows in this verse and the next verse is an example from God’s law that illustrates how “the law rules over the man for as long as he lives,” as Paul said in the previous verse. If this might confuse your readers, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “For example,” or “As an illustration,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]]) ROM 7 2 j4sn figs-genericnoun ἡ…ὕπανδρος γυνὴ τῷ ζῶντι ἀνδρὶ δέδεται νόμῳ; ἐὰν δὲ ἀποθάνῃ ὁ ἀνήρ, κατήργηται…τοῦ ἀνδρός 1 Paul is speaking of Jewish **married** women and husbands in general, not of one particular **woman** or **husband**. If it would be helpful in your language, use a more natural phrase. Alternate translation: “married women remain bound by law to their living husbands, but if their husbands die, they have been released … of their husbands” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun]]) ROM 7 2 hpn4 figs-activepassive ἡ…ὕπανδρος γυνὴ…δέδεται νόμῳ…κατήργηται 1 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “the law continually binds the married woman … God releases her” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) @@ -2030,7 +2029,7 @@ ROM 11 9 x0wl figs-activepassive γενηθήτω ἡ τράπεζα αὐτῶ ROM 11 9 kpg8 figs-idiom γενηθήτω ἡ τράπεζα αὐτῶν εἰς παγίδα, καὶ εἰς θήραν 1 Let their table become a net and a trap This clause is an idiom. The word **table** represents feasting, which is the situation in which a person feels safe, and **net** and **trap** represent punishment. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “Let them be punished while they are feeling safe” or “Punish them while they are comfortable”(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]]) ROM 11 9 l6re figs-doublet εἰς παγίδα, καὶ εἰς θήραν 1 These two phrases mean basically the same thing. The repetition is used to emphasize David’s plea for judgment. If your language does not use repetition to do this, you could use one phrase and provide emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “for thorough punishment” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]]) ROM 11 9 lbs2 figs-metaphor εἰς σκάνδαλον 1 Here, **stumbling block** refers to something that tempts people to sin. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “for tempting them to sin” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) -ROM 11 9 xex5 figs-abstractnouns ἀνταπόδομα αὐτοῖς 1 a retribution for them If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of **retribution**, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “paying them back” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) +ROM 11 9 xex5 figs-abstractnouns ἀνταπόδομα αὐτοῖς 1 a retribution for them If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of **retribution**, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “paying them back” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) ROM 11 10 c1nj figs-metaphor σκοτισθήτωσαν οἱ ὀφθαλμοὶ αὐτῶν, τοῦ μὴ βλέπειν 1 bend their backs continually This clause refers to being unable to understand something. See how you translated “eyes not to see” in [verse 8](../11/08.md). Alternate translation: “Let them be unable to understand” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) ROM 11 10 j9ag figs-activepassive σκοτισθήτωσαν οἱ ὀφθαλμοὶ αὐτῶν 1 bend their backs continually If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Blind their eyes” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) ROM 11 10 biqg figs-metaphor τὸν νῶτον αὐτῶν διὰ παντὸς σύνκαμψον 1 This clause refers to making people suffer like slaves suffer by carrying heavy burdens on **their backs**. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “make them continually suffer” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) @@ -2204,36 +2203,30 @@ ROM 11 36 a9gg figs-explicit δι’ αὐτοῦ 1 For from him … through him ROM 11 36 s63u figs-explicit εἰς αὐτὸν 1 For from him … through him … to him Here, **to** indicates that God is the reason **all things** exist. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “for him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) ROM 11 36 rpx6 figs-abstractnouns αὐτῷ ἡ δόξα 1 To him be the glory forever If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the abstract noun **glory** by translating it with an equivalent expression. Alternate translation: “May people glorify him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) ROM 11 36 ut8l figs-idiom εἰς τοὺς αἰῶνας 1 To him be the glory forever Here, **to the ages** is an idiom that means “forever.” If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. Alternate translation: “to eternity” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]]) -ROM 12 intro aky9 0 # Romans 12 General Notes\n\n## Structure and formatting\n\n7. Instructions for living as Christians (12:1–15:13)\n * How to act toward God (12:1–2)\n * How to serve the church (12:3–8)\n * How to act toward other Christians (12:9–13)\n * How to act toward unbelievers (12:14–21)\n * How to act toward government (13:1–7)\n * How to act toward other people (13:8–10)\n * Act as if the end is near (13:11–14)\n * Do not judge other Christians (14:1–12)\n * Do not tempt other Christians to sin (14:13–23)\n * Be united with other Christians (15:1–13)\n\nSome translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the words of verse 20, which are from the Old Testament.\n\nMany scholars believe Paul uses the word **therefore** in [Romans 12:1](../rom/12/01.md) to refer back to all of Chapters 1–11. After having carefully explained the Christian gospel in chapters 1–11, Paul explains in chapters 12–16 how Christians should live in response to these great truths. Paul gives many different commands in these chapters that are practical instructions for how Christians should behave. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/faith]])\n\n## Important figures of speech in this chapter\n\n### Body of Christ\n\nThe body of Christ is an important metaphor used in the New Testament to refer to the church. Every Christian plays a unique and important function within the people of God. Christians need each other. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/body]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) -ROM 12 1 wklb writing-pronouns παρακαλῶ 1 The pronoun **I** here and throughout this chapter refers to Paul. If this might confuse your readers, you could say this explicitly. Alternate translation: “I, Paul, urge” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])\n -ROM 12 1 fwds figs-yousingular ὑμᾶς…ὑμῶν…ὑμῶν 1 The pronouns **you** and **your** here and throughout most of this chapter are plural and refer to the believers to whom Paul wrote this letter. If this might confuse your readers, you could say this explicitly. Alternate translation: “you believers … your … your” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular]]) -ROM 12 1 xgcr grammar-connect-logic-result παρακαλῶ οὖν ὑμᾶς 1 Here, **therefore** indicates that what follows in the rest of this letter is what Paul wants his readers to do in response to what he has written in chapters 1–11. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a fuller expression. Alternate translation: “Since everything I have said is true, I urge you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]]) +ROM 12 intro aky9 0 # Romans 12 General Notes

## Structure and formatting

7. Instructions for living as Christians (12:1–15:13)
* How to act toward God (12:1–2)
* How to serve the church (12:3–8)
* How to act toward other Christians (12:9–13)
* How to act toward unbelievers (12:14–21)
* How to act toward government (13:1–7)
* How to act toward other people (13:8–10)
* Act as if the end is near (13:11–14)
* Do not judge other Christians (14:1–12)
* Do not tempt other Christians to sin (14:13–23)
* Be united with other Christians (15:1–13)

Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the words of verse 20, which are from the Old Testament.

Many scholars believe Paul uses the word **therefore** in [Romans 12:1](../rom/12/01.md) to refer back to all of Chapters 1–11. After having carefully explained the Christian gospel in chapters 1–11, Paul explains in chapters 12–16 how Christians should live in response to these great truths. Paul gives many different commands in these chapters that are practical instructions for how Christians should behave. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/faith]])

## Important figures of speech in this chapter

### Body of Christ

The body of Christ is an important metaphor used in the New Testament to refer to the church. Every Christian plays a unique and important function within the people of God. Christians need each other. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/body]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) +ROM 12 1 wklb writing-pronouns παρακαλῶ 1 The pronoun **I** here and throughout this chapter refers to Paul. If this might confuse your readers, you could say this explicitly. Alternate translation: “I, Paul, urge” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])ROM 12 1 fwds figs-yousingular ὑμᾶς…ὑμῶν…ὑμῶν 1 The pronouns **you** and **your** here and throughout most of this chapter are plural and refer to the believers to whom Paul wrote this letter. If this might confuse your readers, you could say this explicitly. Alternate translation: “you believers … your … your” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular]]) +ROM 12 1 xgcr grammar-connect-logic-result παρακαλῶ οὖν ὑμᾶς 1 Here, **therefore** indicates that what follows in the rest of this letter is what Paul wants his readers to do in response to what he has written in chapters 1–11. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a fuller expression. Alternate translation: “Since everything I have said is true, I urge you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]]) ROM 12 1 kr1a figs-gendernotations ἀδελφοί 1 I urge you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God See how you translated this word in [1:13](../01/13.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]]) -ROM 12 1 d50i figs-abstractnouns τῶν οἰκτιρμῶν…θυσίαν ζῶσαν…τὴν λογικὴν λατρείαν ὑμῶν 1 I urge you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of **compassions**, **sacrifice**, and **service**, you could express the same ideas in another way. These words indicate different ways in which people serve God. Alternate translation: “what is compassionate … a living one that is sacrificed … which is how you reasonably serve” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])\n -ROM 12 1 wuyl figs-metaphor παραστῆσαι τὰ σώματα ὑμῶν θυσίαν ζῶσαν 1 Here Paul refers to a believer in Christ who obeys God as if that person were one of the animals that the Jews killed and then offered to God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly or use a simile. Alternate translation: “to offer yourselves completely to God while you are alive, as if you were a sacrifice on the temple altar” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) +ROM 12 1 d50i figs-abstractnouns τῶν οἰκτιρμῶν…θυσίαν ζῶσαν…τὴν λογικὴν λατρείαν ὑμῶν 1 I urge you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of **compassions**, **sacrifice**, and **service**, you could express the same ideas in another way. These words indicate different ways in which people serve God. Alternate translation: “what is compassionate … a living one that is sacrificed … which is how you reasonably serve” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])ROM 12 1 wuyl figs-metaphor παραστῆσαι τὰ σώματα ὑμῶν θυσίαν ζῶσαν 1 Here Paul refers to a believer in Christ who obeys God as if that person were one of the animals that the Jews killed and then offered to God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly or use a simile. Alternate translation: “to offer yourselves completely to God while you are alive, as if you were a sacrifice on the temple altar” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) ROM 12 1 w1mz figs-synecdoche τὰ σώματα ὑμῶν 1 to present your bodies a living sacrifice Here, **bodies** refers to the whole people. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “your whole selves” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]]) -ROM 12 2 pyb6 figs-activepassive μὴ συνσχηματίζεσθε…μεταμορφοῦσθε 1 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “do not conform yourselves … let God transform you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) +ROM 12 2 pyb6 figs-activepassive μὴ συνσχηματίζεσθε…μεταμορφοῦσθε 1 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “do not conform yourselves … let God transform you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) ROM 12 2 clc6 μὴ συνσχηματίζεσθε 1 Do not be conformed to this world Alternate translation: “do not become like” ROM 12 2 d2qq figs-metonymy τῷ αἰῶνι τούτῳ 1 Here, **this age** refers to the attitudes and actions of the unbelievers who live during this period of time. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “to the way people think and act in this age” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) ROM 12 2 na8p figs-abstractnouns τῇ ἀνακαινώσει τοῦ νοός…τὸ θέλημα τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 but be transformed by the renewal of your mind If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of **renewal** and **will**, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “by renewing the mind … what God wills” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) -ROM 12 2 c6ch figs-metaphor τῇ ἀνακαινώσει τοῦ νοός 1 but be transformed by the renewal of your mind Here Paul speaks of changing the way a person thinks as if that persons mind is being renewed. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “by the changing of how one thinks” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) +ROM 12 2 c6ch figs-metaphor τῇ ἀνακαινώσει τοῦ νοός 1 but be transformed by the renewal of your mind Here Paul speaks of changing the way a person thinks as if that persons mind is being renewed. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “by the changing of how one thinks” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) ROM 12 2 w34l grammar-connect-logic-goal εἰς τὸ δοκιμάζειν ὑμᾶς 1 Here, **so that** indicates that what follows is the purpose for which someone should **be transformed**. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a purpose clause. Alternate translation (without a comma preceding): “for the purpose that you can approve” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal]]) -ROM 12 3 cp9g grammar-connect-words-phrases γὰρ 1 **For** here indicates that what follows explains what Paul said in the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “In fact,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])\n -ROM 12 3 l6c6 figs-activepassive διὰ τῆς χάριτος τῆς δοθείσης μοι 1 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “through the grace God has given to me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) +ROM 12 3 cp9g grammar-connect-words-phrases γὰρ 1 **For** here indicates that what follows explains what Paul said in the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “In fact,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])ROM 12 3 l6c6 figs-activepassive διὰ τῆς χάριτος τῆς δοθείσης μοι 1 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “through the grace God has given to me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) ROM 12 3 nyc2 figs-explicit διὰ τῆς χάριτος τῆς δοθείσης μοι 1 because of the grace that was given to me Here, **grace** refers to God graciously choosing Paul to be an apostle. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “through the grace that caused me to become an apostle” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) -ROM 12 3 s6yg figs-idiom μὴ ὑπερφρονεῖν παρ’ ὃ δεῖ φρονεῖν 1 that everyone who is among you should not think more highly of themselves than they ought to think The phrase **think more highly of himself** refers to someone arrogantly thinking that he is better than he really is. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “to not think he is better than he really is” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])\n -ROM 12 3 j20s figs-gendernotations μὴ ὑπερφρονεῖν παρ’ ὃ δεῖ φρονεῖν 1 that everyone who is among you should not think more highly of themselves than they ought to think Although **himself** and **he** are masculine, Paul is using the words here in a generic sense that includes both men and women. Alternate translation: “to not think more highly of oneself than what one ought to think” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]]) +ROM 12 3 s6yg figs-idiom μὴ ὑπερφρονεῖν παρ’ ὃ δεῖ φρονεῖν 1 that everyone who is among you should not think more highly of themselves than they ought to think The phrase **think more highly of himself** refers to someone arrogantly thinking that he is better than he really is. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “to not think he is better than he really is” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])ROM 12 3 j20s figs-gendernotations μὴ ὑπερφρονεῖν παρ’ ὃ δεῖ φρονεῖν 1 that everyone who is among you should not think more highly of themselves than they ought to think Although **himself** and **he** are masculine, Paul is using the words here in a generic sense that includes both men and women. Alternate translation: “to not think more highly of oneself than what one ought to think” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]]) ROM 12 3 me4t φρονεῖν εἰς τὸ σωφρονεῖν 1 Instead, they should think in a wise way Alternate translation: “you should be wise with regard to how you think about yourselves” ROM 12 3 m8z7 figs-explicit ἑκάστῳ ὡς ὁ Θεὸς ἐμέρισεν μέτρον πίστεως 1 just as God has given out to each one a certain amount of faith Here, **faith** could refer to: (1) different degrees of **faith** in God that God gives believers. Alternate translation: “as God has given each of you an degree of ability to trust in him” (2) the spiritual gifts that result from faith and are given to believers in different degrees. Alternate translation: “as God has given each of you a degree of faith demonstrated in spiritual gifts” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) -ROM 12 4 zm8p grammar-connect-logic-result γὰρ 1 For **For** here indicates that what follows is the reason why Paul’s readers should “think with a sound mind,” as stated in the previous verse. If it would be helpful to you readers, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “You must do this because” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])\n -ROM 12 4 v2pi figs-simile καθάπερ 1 we have many members in one body Here, **just as** indicates that what follows in this verse is a simile. Paul uses this simile to compare all believers in Christ to the parts of a human body. Since Paul explains the comparison in the next verse, you do not need to express the meaning plainly here. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]]) +ROM 12 4 zm8p grammar-connect-logic-result γὰρ 1 For **For** here indicates that what follows is the reason why Paul’s readers should “think with a sound mind,” as stated in the previous verse. If it would be helpful to you readers, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “You must do this because” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])ROM 12 4 v2pi figs-simile καθάπερ 1 we have many members in one body Here, **just as** indicates that what follows in this verse is a simile. Paul uses this simile to compare all believers in Christ to the parts of a human body. Since Paul explains the comparison in the next verse, you do not need to express the meaning plainly here. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]]) ROM 12 4 v5iy μέλη…μέλη 1 members See how you translated members in [6:13](../06/13.md). ROM 12 4 v8bo figs-abstractnouns τὴν αὐτὴν ἔχει πρᾶξιν 1 members If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of **function**, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “function for the same purposes” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) -ROM 12 5 sd03 figs-exclusive ἐσμεν 1 are individually members of each other Here, **we** refers to all Christians, so it is inclusive. Your language may require you to mark these forms. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])\n -ROM 12 5 v93h figs-metaphor ἐν Χριστῷ 1 are individually members of each other See how you translated the similar phrase in [6:23](../06/23.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) +ROM 12 5 sd03 figs-exclusive ἐσμεν 1 are individually members of each other Here, **we** refers to all Christians, so it is inclusive. Your language may require you to mark these forms. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])ROM 12 5 v93h figs-metaphor ἐν Χριστῷ 1 are individually members of each other See how you translated the similar phrase in [6:23](../06/23.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) ROM 12 5 dhx8 figs-metaphor τὸ δὲ καθ’ εἷς ἀλλήλων μέλη 1 are individually members of each other Paul speaks of the believers as if God had physically joined them together like the parts of the human **body**. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly or use a simile. Alternate translation: “and the individual believers are united to one another” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) ROM 12 5 cutl μέλη 1 See how you translated **members** in the previous verse. -ROM 12 6 j3x5 figs-exclusive ἔχοντες…ἡμῖν 1 We have different gifts according to the grace that was given to us Here, **we** and **us** refer to all Christians, so they are inclusive. Your language may require you to mark these forms. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]]) +ROM 12 6 j3x5 figs-exclusive ἔχοντες…ἡμῖν 1 We have different gifts according to the grace that was given to us Here, **we** and **us** refer to all Christians, so they are inclusive. Your language may require you to mark these forms. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]]) ROM 12 6 hrr1 figs-metaphor ἔχοντες…χαρίσματα…διάφορα 1 We have different gifts according to the grace that was given to us Paul speaks of the different abilities to serve other believers that God gives believers as being **gracious gifts** from God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “we have different spiritual abilities” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) ROM 12 6 y267 figs-activepassive κατὰ τὴν χάριν τὴν δοθεῖσαν ἡμῖν 1 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “according to the grace God has given to us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) ROM 12 6 tlk4 figs-abstractnouns τὴν χάριν…προφητείαν, κατὰ τὴν ἀναλογίαν 1 If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of **grace** and **prophecy**, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “what is graciously … being able to prophecy, according to what has been proportioned” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) @@ -2244,12 +2237,10 @@ ROM 12 7 wmuw figs-abstractnouns διακονίαν…τῇ διακονίᾳ… ROM 12 8 m2as figs-ellipsis εἴτε ὁ παρακαλῶν, ἐν τῇ παρακλήσει; ὁ μεταδιδοὺς, ἐν ἁπλότητι; ὁ προϊστάμενος, ἐν σπουδῇ; ὁ ἐλεῶν, ἐν ἱλαρότητι 1 giving Paul is leaving out some of the words that clauses would need in many languages to be complete. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could supply these words from the previous verse. Alternate translation: “if God has given someone the gift of encouraging, then that person must use that gift for encouraging; if God has given someone the gift of giving, then that person must use that gift for generosity; if God has given someone the gift of leading, then that person must use that gift with diligence; if God has given someone the gift of showing mercy, then that person must use that gift with cheerfulness” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]]) ROM 12 8 teso figs-abstractnouns ἐν τῇ παρακλήσει…ἐν ἁπλότητι…ἐν σπουδῇ…ἐν ἱλαρότητι 1 giving If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of **encouragement**, **generosity**, **diligence**, and **cheerfulness**, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “by encouraging others … generously … diligently … cheerfully” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) ROM 12 9 dmsa figs-declarative ἡ ἀγάπη ἀνυπόκριτος; ἀποστυγοῦντες τὸ πονηρόν, κολλώμενοι τῷ ἀγαθῷ 1 giving Paul is using statements to give commands. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a more natural form for commands. Alternate translation: “Love without hypocrisy, abhor the wicked, hold on to the good” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-declarative]]) -ROM 12 9 o8z9 figs-doublenegatives ἀνυπόκριτος 1 giving The phrase **without hypocrisy** is a double negative. If your readers would misunderstand this double negative, you could translate it as a positive statement. Alternate translation: “sincerely” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])\n -ROM 12 9 iv5h figs-abstractnouns τὸ πονηρόν…τῷ ἀγαθῷ 1 Let love be without hypocrisy If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of **wicked** and **good**, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “wicked things … good things” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) +ROM 12 9 o8z9 figs-doublenegatives ἀνυπόκριτος 1 giving The phrase **without hypocrisy** is a double negative. If your readers would misunderstand this double negative, you could translate it as a positive statement. Alternate translation: “sincerely” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])ROM 12 9 iv5h figs-abstractnouns τὸ πονηρόν…τῷ ἀγαθῷ 1 Let love be without hypocrisy If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of **wicked** and **good**, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “wicked things … good things” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) ROM 12 10 mr8i figs-declarative τῇ φιλαδελφίᾳ εἰς ἀλλήλους φιλόστοργοι; τῇ τιμῇ ἀλλήλους προηγούμενοι 1 Paul is using statements to give commands. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a more natural form for commands. Alternate translation: “in brotherly love, be affectionate to one another; in honor, outdo one another” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-declarative]]) ROM 12 10 ng86 figs-abstractnouns τῇ φιλαδελφίᾳ…τῇ τιμῇ 1 Concerning love of the brothers, be affectionate If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of **brotherly love** and **honor**, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “in loving others as brothers … in honoring others” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) -ROM 12 10 ux2y figs-gendernotations τῇ φιλαδελφίᾳ 1 Concerning love of the brothers Although the word **brotherly** is masculine, Paul is using it to refer to all fellow believers, both male and female. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “in love for fellow believers” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])\n -ROM 12 11 iu2i figs-declarative τῇ σπουδῇ μὴ ὀκνηροί, τῷ πνεύματι ζέοντες, τῷ Κυρίῳ δουλεύοντες 1 Concerning diligence, do not be hesitant. Concerning the spirit, be eager. Concerning the Lord, serve him Paul is using statements to give commands. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a more natural form for commands. Alternate translation: “in diligence, do not be lazy; in the spirit, be eager; serve the Lord” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-declarative]]) +ROM 12 10 ux2y figs-gendernotations τῇ φιλαδελφίᾳ 1 Concerning love of the brothers Although the word **brotherly** is masculine, Paul is using it to refer to all fellow believers, both male and female. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “in love for fellow believers” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])ROM 12 11 iu2i figs-declarative τῇ σπουδῇ μὴ ὀκνηροί, τῷ πνεύματι ζέοντες, τῷ Κυρίῳ δουλεύοντες 1 Concerning diligence, do not be hesitant. Concerning the spirit, be eager. Concerning the Lord, serve him Paul is using statements to give commands. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a more natural form for commands. Alternate translation: “in diligence, do not be lazy; in the spirit, be eager; serve the Lord” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-declarative]]) ROM 12 11 jhe7 figs-abstractnouns τῇ σπουδῇ 1 Concerning diligence, do not be hesitant. Concerning the spirit, be eager. Concerning the Lord, serve him If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of **diligence**, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “in being diligent” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) ROM 12 11 ddvz figs-explicit τῷ πνεύματι 1 Here, **the spirit** could refer to: (1) a person’s spirit, as in [1:9](../01/09.md). Alternate translation: “in your spirit” or “wholeheartedly” (2) the Holy Spirit. Alternate translation: “in the Holy Spirit” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) ROM 12 12 l3es figs-declarative τῇ ἐλπίδι χαίροντες, τῇ θλίψει ὑπομένοντες, τῇ προσευχῇ προσκαρτεροῦντες 1 be patient in suffering Paul is using statements to give commands. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a more natural form for commands. Alternate translation: “in hope, rejoice; in suffering, be patient; in prayer, persist” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-declarative]]) @@ -2263,13 +2254,10 @@ ROM 12 14 exd8 figs-doublet εὐλογεῖτε καὶ μὴ καταρᾶσθ ROM 12 15 szpn figs-declarative χαίρειν μετὰ χαιρόντων, κλαίειν μετὰ κλαιόντων 1 Paul is using statements to give commands. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a more natural form for commands. Alternate translation: “rejoice with those who rejoice; weep with those who weep” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-declarative]]) ROM 12 16 agio figs-declarative τὸ αὐτὸ εἰς ἀλλήλους φρονοῦντες, μὴ τὰ ὑψηλὰ φρονοῦντες, ἀλλὰ τοῖς ταπεινοῖς συναπαγόμενοι 1 Be of the same mind toward one another Paul is using statements to give commands. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a more natural form for commands. Alternate translation: “think the same thing toward one another, do not think the high things, but accept the lowly ones” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-declarative]]) ROM 12 16 hwd1 figs-idiom τὸ αὐτὸ εἰς ἀλλήλους φρονοῦντες 1 Be of the same mind toward one another This clause is an idiom that refers to having the same concern for the wellbeing of other people as a person has for himself. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “thinking about others the same way you think about yourselves” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]]) -ROM 12 16 ar7y figs-idiom μὴ τὰ ὑψηλὰ φρονοῦντες 1 Do not think in proud ways Here, **thinking the high things** refers to someone arrogantly thinking that he is better than other people. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “not thinking that you are better than others” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])\n -ROM 12 16 cc23 figs-explicit τοῖς ταπεινοῖς συναπαγόμενοι 1 accept lowly people Here, **the lowly ones** could refer to: (1) people who are poor or are not respected by society. Alternate translation: “accepting people who do not seem important” (2) doings things that people think are humiliating or unimportant. Alternate translation: “accepting the lowly tasks” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) +ROM 12 16 ar7y figs-idiom μὴ τὰ ὑψηλὰ φρονοῦντες 1 Do not think in proud ways Here, **thinking the high things** refers to someone arrogantly thinking that he is better than other people. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “not thinking that you are better than others” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])ROM 12 16 cc23 figs-explicit τοῖς ταπεινοῖς συναπαγόμενοι 1 accept lowly people Here, **the lowly ones** could refer to: (1) people who are poor or are not respected by society. Alternate translation: “accepting people who do not seem important” (2) doings things that people think are humiliating or unimportant. Alternate translation: “accepting the lowly tasks” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) ROM 12 16 h469 figs-idiom μὴ γίνεσθε φρόνιμοι παρ’ ἑαυτοῖς 1 Do not be wise in your own thoughts See how you translated this expression in [11:25](../11/25.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]]) ROM 12 17 h2tz figs-declarative μηδενὶ κακὸν ἀντὶ κακοῦ ἀποδιδόντες, προνοούμενοι καλὰ ἐνώπιον πάντων ἀνθρώπων 1 Repay no one evil for evil Paul is using statements to give commands. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a more natural form for commands. Alternate translation: “repay no one evil for evil; give careful thought to good things in the sight of all men” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-declarative]]) -ROM 12 17 ae3j figs-abstractnouns κακὸν ἀντὶ κακοῦ…προνοούμενοι…ἐνώπιον 1 Repay no one evil for evil If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of **evil**, **thought**, and **sight**, you could express the ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “evil things for evil things; thinking carefully about … as seen by” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])\n -ROM 12 17 hnte figs-metaphor μηδενὶ κακὸν ἀντὶ κακοῦ ἀποδιδόντες 1 Repay no one evil for evil Here Paul uses **paying back** to refer to doing something **evil** to someone in response to the **evil** that person has done. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “doing something evil to no one for the evil that person has done to you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])\n -ROM 12 17 fzh8 figs-metaphor καλὰ ἐνώπιον πάντων ἀνθρώπων 1 Do good things in the sight of all people Here Paul uses **sight** to refer to what people mentally perceive. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “do things that all men perceive to be good” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) +ROM 12 17 ae3j figs-abstractnouns κακὸν ἀντὶ κακοῦ…προνοούμενοι…ἐνώπιον 1 Repay no one evil for evil If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of **evil**, **thought**, and **sight**, you could express the ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “evil things for evil things; thinking carefully about … as seen by” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])ROM 12 17 hnte figs-metaphor μηδενὶ κακὸν ἀντὶ κακοῦ ἀποδιδόντες 1 Repay no one evil for evil Here Paul uses **paying back** to refer to doing something **evil** to someone in response to the **evil** that person has done. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “doing something evil to no one for the evil that person has done to you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])ROM 12 17 fzh8 figs-metaphor καλὰ ἐνώπιον πάντων ἀνθρώπων 1 Do good things in the sight of all people Here Paul uses **sight** to refer to what people mentally perceive. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “do things that all men perceive to be good” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) ROM 12 17 c8lw figs-gendernotations πάντων ἀνθρώπων 1 Do good things in the sight of all people Although the term **men** is masculine, Paul is using the word here in a generic sense that includes both men and women. Alternate translation: “all people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]]) ROM 12 18 pgt7 τὸ ἐξ ὑμῶν 1 as far as it depends on you, live at peace with all people Alternate translation: “so far as it depends on you” or “as much as it is up to you” ROM 12 18 nzwf figs-declarative μετὰ πάντων ἀνθρώπων εἰρηνεύοντες 1 as far as it depends on you, live at peace with all people Paul is using a statement to give a command. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a more natural form for commands. Alternate translation: “live at peace with all men” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-declarative]]) @@ -2277,22 +2265,16 @@ ROM 12 18 fbzh figs-gendernotations πάντων ἀνθρώπων 1 Although t ROM 12 19 e0hc figs-declarative μὴ ἑαυτοὺς ἐκδικοῦντες 1 give way to his wrath Paul is using a statement to give a command. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a more natural form for commands. Alternate translation: “do not avenge yourselves” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-declarative]]) ROM 12 19 ew6x figs-metonymy δότε τόπον τῇ ὀργῇ 1 give way to his wrath Here, **wrath** refers to God’s punishment. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “give way to God’s punishment” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) ROM 12 19 zre0 figs-abstractnouns τῇ ὀργῇ…ἐμοὶ ἐκδίκησις 1 give way to his wrath If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of **wrath** and **vengeance**, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “to God being wrathful … I will avenge” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) -ROM 12 19 tcwn grammar-connect-logic-result γάρ 1 give way to his wrath Here, **for** indicates that what follows is the reason why what Paul said in the previous clause is true. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. You may need to start a new sentence, as in the UST. Alternate translation: “This is due to the fact that” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])\n -ROM 12 19 omjp writing-quotations γέγραπται 1 give way to his wrath See how you translated the similar phrase in [1:17](../01/17.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations]]) -ROM 12 19 ns3b figs-activepassive γέγραπται 1 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Moses wrote this quotation. Alternate translation: “Moses wrote” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])\n -ROM 12 19 kf44 figs-quotemarks ἐμοὶ ἐκδίκησις; ἐγὼ ἀνταποδώσω, λέγει Κύριος 1 This sentence is a quotation of [Deuteronomy 32:35](../../deu/32/35.md). It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by setting off all of this material with quotation marks or with whatever punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])\n -ROM 12 19 lkpl figs-quotesinquotes ἐμοὶ ἐκδίκησις; ἐγὼ ἀνταποδώσω, λέγει Κύριος 1 If the direct quotation inside a direct quotation would be confusing in your language, you could translate the second direct quotation as an indirect quotation. Alternate translation: “The Lord says that vengeance is for him; he will repay.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes]]) +ROM 12 19 tcwn grammar-connect-logic-result γάρ 1 give way to his wrath Here, **for** indicates that what follows is the reason why what Paul said in the previous clause is true. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. You may need to start a new sentence, as in the UST. Alternate translation: “This is due to the fact that” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])ROM 12 19 omjp writing-quotations γέγραπται 1 give way to his wrath See how you translated the similar phrase in [1:17](../01/17.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations]]) +ROM 12 19 ns3b figs-activepassive γέγραπται 1 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Moses wrote this quotation. Alternate translation: “Moses wrote” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])ROM 12 19 kf44 figs-quotemarks ἐμοὶ ἐκδίκησις; ἐγὼ ἀνταποδώσω, λέγει Κύριος 1 This sentence is a quotation of [Deuteronomy 32:35](../../deu/32/35.md). It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by setting off all of this material with quotation marks or with whatever punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])ROM 12 19 lkpl figs-quotesinquotes ἐμοὶ ἐκδίκησις; ἐγὼ ἀνταποδώσω, λέγει Κύριος 1 If the direct quotation inside a direct quotation would be confusing in your language, you could translate the second direct quotation as an indirect quotation. Alternate translation: “The Lord says that vengeance is for him; he will repay.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes]]) ROM 12 19 l2i8 figs-parallelism ἐμοὶ ἐκδίκησις; ἐγὼ ἀνταποδώσω 1 Vengeance belongs to me; I will repay These two phrases mean basically the same thing and emphasize that God will avenge his people. If saying the same thing twice might be confusing for your readers, you can combine the phrases into one. Alternate translation: “I will certainly avenge you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]]) -ROM 12 19 xo5r figs-metaphor ἀνταποδώσω 1 Vengeance belongs to me; I will repay Here Moses quotes God using **repay** to refer to appropriately punishing someone as if the punishment was reciprocal payment for that person’s deeds. If it might be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “will appropriately punish” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])\n -ROM 12 19 mco6 figs-ellipsis ἀνταποδώσω 1 Vengeance belongs to me; I will repay Moses quotes God leaving out some of the words that a sentence would need in many languages to be complete. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could supply these words from the context. Alternate translation: “will repay them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]]) -ROM 12 20 n96q writing-quotations ἀλλὰ 1 Vengeance belongs to me; I will repay **But** here indicates that what follows is a quotation from an Old Testament book ([Proverbs 25:21–22](../../pro/25/21.md)). If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a comparable phrase that indicates that Paul is quoting from an important text. Alternate translation: “But, God says in the Scriptures,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations]])\n -ROM 12 20 q7dq figs-quotemarks ἐὰν πεινᾷ ὁ ἐχθρός σου, ψώμιζε αὐτόν; ἐὰν διψᾷ, πότιζε αὐτόν; τοῦτο γὰρ ποιῶν, ἄνθρακας πυρὸς σωρεύσεις ἐπὶ τὴν κεφαλὴν αὐτοῦ. 1 This sentence is a quotation of [Proverbs 25:21–22](../../pro/25/21.md). It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by setting off all of this material with quotation marks or with whatever punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]]) +ROM 12 19 xo5r figs-metaphor ἀνταποδώσω 1 Vengeance belongs to me; I will repay Here Moses quotes God using **repay** to refer to appropriately punishing someone as if the punishment was reciprocal payment for that person’s deeds. If it might be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “will appropriately punish” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])ROM 12 19 mco6 figs-ellipsis ἀνταποδώσω 1 Vengeance belongs to me; I will repay Moses quotes God leaving out some of the words that a sentence would need in many languages to be complete. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could supply these words from the context. Alternate translation: “will repay them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]]) +ROM 12 20 n96q writing-quotations ἀλλὰ 1 Vengeance belongs to me; I will repay **But** here indicates that what follows is a quotation from an Old Testament book ([Proverbs 25:21–22](../../pro/25/21.md)). If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a comparable phrase that indicates that Paul is quoting from an important text. Alternate translation: “But, God says in the Scriptures,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations]])ROM 12 20 q7dq figs-quotemarks ἐὰν πεινᾷ ὁ ἐχθρός σου, ψώμιζε αὐτόν; ἐὰν διψᾷ, πότιζε αὐτόν; τοῦτο γὰρ ποιῶν, ἄνθρακας πυρὸς σωρεύσεις ἐπὶ τὴν κεφαλὴν αὐτοῦ. 1 This sentence is a quotation of [Proverbs 25:21–22](../../pro/25/21.md). It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by setting off all of this material with quotation marks or with whatever punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]]) ROM 12 20 c4ig figs-yousingular ὁ ἐχθρός σου…σωρεύσεις 1 Here the pronouns **your** and **you** are singular and addressed as to one person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use plural forms here. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular]]) ROM 12 20 uwbq grammar-connect-logic-result γὰρ 1 **For** here indicates that what follows is the reason why what was said in the previous sentence is true. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “This is due to the fact that” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]]) ROM 12 20 wce6 figs-idiom ἄνθρακας πυρὸς σωρεύσεις ἐπὶ τὴν κεφαλὴν αὐτοῦ 1 You will heap coals of fire on his head This clause is an idiom. It could refer to: (1) a person feeling shame as a result of being helped by someone whom that person had harmed. Alternate translation: “you will make the person who harmed you feel badly about how he has mistreated you” (2) God very severely punishing the person who is being helped. Alternate translation: “you will give God a reason to judge him more harshly” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]]) ROM 12 21 q761 figs-personification μὴ νικῶ ὑπὸ τοῦ κακοῦ, ἀλλὰ νίκα ἐν τῷ ἀγαθῷ τὸ κακόν 1 Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good Paul describes **evil** as if it were a person who could conquer someone or be conquered by someone. He is referring to someone doing evil in response to someone doing evil to that person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “Do not let evil cause you to do evil, but use good to prevent evil from influencing you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]]) -ROM 12 21 p7fd figs-abstractnouns τοῦ κακοῦ…τῷ ἀγαθῷ…τὸ κακόν 1 Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of **evil** and **good**, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “evil things … evil things … good things” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])\n -ROM 12 21 k8et figs-activepassive μὴ νικῶ ὑπὸ τοῦ κακοῦ 1 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Do not let evil overcome you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) +ROM 12 21 p7fd figs-abstractnouns τοῦ κακοῦ…τῷ ἀγαθῷ…τὸ κακόν 1 Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of **evil** and **good**, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “evil things … evil things … good things” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])ROM 12 21 k8et figs-activepassive μὴ νικῶ ὑπὸ τοῦ κακοῦ 1 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Do not let evil overcome you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) ROM 13 intro l4q7 0 # Romans 13 General Notes

## Structure and formatting

7. Instructions for living as Christians (12:1–15:13)
* How to act toward God (12:1–2)
* How to serve the church (12:3–8)
* How to act toward other Christians (12:9–13)
* How to act toward unbelievers (12:14–21)
* How to act toward government (13:1–7)
* How to act toward other people (13:8–10)
* Act as if the end is near (13:11–14)

In the first part of this chapter, Paul teaches Christians to obey rulers who govern them. At that time, ungodly Roman rulers governed the land. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/godly]])

## Special concepts in this chapter

### Ungodly rulers

When Paul teaches about obeying rulers, some readers will find this difficult to understand, especially in places where rulers persecute the church. Christians must obey their rulers as well as obey God, unless the rulers do not allow Christians to do something God explicitly commands them to do. There are times when a believer must submit to these rulers and suffer at their hands. Christians understand that this world is temporary and they will ultimately be with God forever. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/eternity]])

## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

### Flesh

This is a complex issue. “Flesh” is possibly a metaphor for our sinful nature. Paul is not teaching that our physical bodies are sinful. Paul appears to be teaching that as long as Christians are alive (“in the flesh”), we will continue to sin. But our new nature will be fighting against our old nature. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/flesh]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/sin]]) ROM 13 1 v5ik 0 Connecting Statement: Paul tells believers how to live under their rulers. ROM 13 1 b8nf figs-synecdoche πᾶσα ψυχὴ…ὑποτασσέσθω 1 Let every soul be obedient to Here, **soul** is a synecdoche for the whole person. “Let every Christian obey” or “Everyone should obey” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])