Audio commentary on this verse

Note 6 at Rom. 12:8: The Greek word for "exhorteth" is "parakaleo." It was translated "beseech" in Romans 12:1; 15:30; and 16:17. It can also mean "to comfort or encourage" and it probably is used that way here.

Our English word "exhort" comes from the Latin "exhortari." This is a compound word comprised of "ex" meaning "completely" and "hortari" meaning "to encourage." Therefore, the word "exhort" literally means "to completely encourage." One of the purposes of prophesy is exhortation (1 Cor. 14:3). Exhortation is also a part of preaching the Word (2 Tim. 4:2). However, this verse shows that there are individuals who have a special ministry of encouraging people. This is a supernatural gift.

Note 7 at Rom. 12:8: The Greek word used here is "haplotes" and means "sincerity, uprightness, or frankness"; but it can also mean "generosity or liberality." Most scholars agree that in this case it is expressing "generosity or liberality." Therefore, Paul is saying to those who have a ministry of giving, that they should be generous in their giving.

Note 8 at Rom. 12:8: The Greek word that was translated "ruleth" here is "proistemi" and it means "to stand before; i.e. (in rank) preside." The Amplified Bible translates this phrase as "he who gives aid and superintends, with zeal and singleness of mind." This could be speaking of any one of many positions of authority in the church. This does reveal that although everyone has some degree of authority, there are individuals who are given a ministry gift of ruling or what might be commonly called administration today.

Note 9 at Rom. 12:8: The Greek word that was translated "cheerfulness" here is "hilarotes" and means "cheerfulness." It comes from the Greek word "hilaros" which is where we get our word "hilarious" from. Therefore, Paul is admonishing those who show mercy to be hilarious in their administration of this gift.