And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.
What does Romans 12:2 mean?
The apostle having closed the part of his epistle wherein he argues and proves various doctrines which are practically applied, here urges important duties from gospel principles.
Key themes
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Keep this verse inside Romans 12:1-2 and alongside a few nearby related passages.
Commentary on Romans 12:2
And be not conformed ... - The word rendered "conformed" properly means to put on the form, fashion, or appearance of another. It may refer to anything pertaining to the habit, manner, dress, style of living, etc., of others. Of this world - τω αιωνι τουτω to aioni touto. The word which is commonly rendered "world," when applied to the material universe, is κοσμος kosmos, "cosmos." The word used here properly denotes an age, or generation of people. It may denote a particular generation, or it may be applied to the race. It is sometimes used in each of these senses. Thus, here it may mean that Christians should not conform to the maxims, habits, feelings, etc.
Key words
- the world to come
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the world to come.
- conformed
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conformed. It may refer to anything pertaining to the habit, manner, dress, style of living, etc., of others.
Context in Romans 12
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Romans 12 belongs to the middle movement of the book, especially the section often described as union with Christ and life in the Spirit. Romans is Paul’s fullest sustained exposition of sin, grace, righteousness, faith, Israel, the Spirit, and transformed life in Christ. Read this chapter with the wider themes of justification, grace, and faith in view so the individual verses keep their proper weight.
Related topics
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Passages on trusting God, receiving Christ, persevering without sight, and the relation between faith and lived obedience.
Key passages on God's unmerited favour, the grace of Christ, salvation by grace through faith, and how grace transforms the way believers live.
Passages on the nature of sin, its consequences, God's judgment, repentance, and the way of forgiveness through Christ.
Who quoted Romans 12:2?
Find out who used Romans 12:2 in their speeches and writings. Which famous people quoted Romans 12:2?
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