King James Version
What Does Romans 12:11 Mean?
“Not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord;”
Context
9
Let love be without dissimulation. Abhor that which is evil; cleave to that which is good.
10
Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another; with: or, in the love of the brethren
11
Not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord;
12
Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer;
13
Distributing to the necessity of saints; given to hospitality.
Topics in This Verse
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(11) **In** **business.**—Rather, *in zeal;* the reference is to the spiritual and not to the practical life, as the English reader might suppose.
**Fervent.**—In the literal and etymological sense *boiling* or *seething.* The temperament of the Christian is compared to water bubbling and boiling over the flame.
**In spirit**—*i.e.,* not “in the Holy Spirit,” but “in that part of you which is spirit.”
**Serving the Lord.**—Some of the extant Græco-Latin codices, and others known to Origen and Jerome, read here by a slight change of vowels “serving the time”; no doubt wrongly, though the expression might be compared with 1Corinthians 7:29; Ephesians 5:16, *et al.*
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of Romans. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
Romans 12:11 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Romans 12:11
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge