Albert Barnes Commentary Romans 12:17

"Render to no man evil for evil. Take thought for things honorable in the sight of all men." — Romans 12:17 (ASV)

Recompense. Render, give, or return. (See Barnes on Matthew 5:39).

This is probably one of the most difficult precepts of Christianity, but the law of Christ on the subject is unyielding. It is a solemn demand made on all His followers, and it must be obeyed.

Provide. The word translated provide properly means to think or plan beforehand. Make it a matter of previous thought, of settled plan, of design. This direction would make it a matter of principle and fixed purpose to do what is right, and not to leave it to the fluctuations of feeling or to the influence of excitement. The same direction is given in 2 Corinthians 8:21.

Things honest. Literally, things beautiful or comely. The expression here does not refer to property or to provision made for a family, etc. The connection requires us to understand it concerning conduct, and especially our conduct toward those who injure us. It requires us to show a spirit and to manifest behavior, in such cases, that will be lovely and comely in the view of others—such as all people will approve and admire.

And the apostle wisely cautions us to provide for this, that is, to think of it beforehand, to make it a matter of fixed principle and purpose, so that we will not be overtaken and excited by passion. If left to the time when the offense is given, we may be excited and off our guard, and may therefore show an improper temper. All persons who have ever been provoked by injury (and who has not been?) will see the profound wisdom of this caution to discipline and guard the temper by previous purpose, so that we may not show an improper spirit.

In the sight of all men. Such as all must approve; such that no one can blame; and therefore, such as will do no discredit to religion. This expression is taken from Proverbs 3:4. The passage shows that people may be expected to approve a mild, kind, and patient temper in the reception of injuries, and facts show that this is the case. The Christian spirit is one that the world must approve, however little it is disposed to act on it.