Matthew Henry Commentary Romans 12:9-16

"Let love be without hypocrisy. Abhor that which is evil; cleave to that which is good. In love of the brethren be tenderly affectioned one to another; in honor preferring one another; in diligence not slothful; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord; rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing stedfastly in prayer; communicating to the necessities of the saints; given to hospitality. Bless them that persecute you; bless, and curse not. Rejoice with them that rejoice; weep with them that weep. Be of the same mind one toward another. Set not your mind on high things, but condescend to things that are lowly. Be not wise in your own conceits." — Romans 12:9-16 (ASV)

The love Christians profess for each other should be sincere, free from deceit, and empty and deceitful compliments. Depending on Divine grace, they must detest and dread all evil, and love and delight in whatever is kind and useful. We must not only do what is good, but we must also hold fast to it. All our duty toward one another is summed up in one word: love.

This refers to the love of parents for their children—a love more tender and natural than any other, unforced and unconstrained. And love for God and humanity, combined with zeal for the gospel, will make the wise Christian diligent in all their worldly business and in gaining superior skill. God must be served with the spirit, under the influence of the Holy Spirit. He is honoured by our hope and trust in Him, especially when we rejoice in that hope.

He is served not only by working for Him, but also by sitting still quietly when He calls us to suffer. Patience for God's sake is true piety. Those who rejoice in hope are likely to be patient in tribulation. We should not be cold in the duty of prayer, nor quickly grow weary of it.

Not only must there be kindness to friends and fellow believers, but Christians must also not harbour anger against enemies. It is only mock love that rests in words of kindness while our fellow believers need real supplies and it is in our power to provide them. Be ready to show hospitality to those who do good; when the occasion arises, we must welcome strangers. Bless, and curse not.

This means thorough goodwill: not blessing them when at prayer and cursing them at other times, but blessing them always and not cursing at all. True Christian love will lead us to share in the sorrows and joys of each other. Strive as much as you can to agree on the same spiritual truths; and when you fall short of that, still agree in affection.

Regard worldly pomp and dignity with holy contempt. Do not pay attention to it; do not be in love with it. Be reconciled to the place God, in His providence, puts you in, whatever it may be. Nothing is beneath us except sin. We will never find it in our hearts to condescend to others while we indulge self-conceit; therefore, that must be mortified.