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Romans 12:8 |
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Or he that exhorteth, on exhortation: he that giveth, [let him do it] with simplicity; he that ruleth, with diligence; he that sheweth mercy, with cheerfulness.
Audio commentary on this verse
Note 6 at Ro 12:8: The Greek word for "exhorteth" is "PARAKALEO." It was translated "beseech" in Ro 12:1, 15:30, and 16:17. It was also translated as "comfort," and it is probably used that way here.
Our English word "exhort" comes from the Latin "EXHORTARI." This is a compound word comprised of "EX," meaning "completely" (www.wordinfo.info) and "HORTARI," meaning "encourage" (Merriam-Webster Dictionary). Therefore, the word "exhort" literally means to "completely encourage." One of the purposes of prophecy is exhortation (1Co 14:3). Exhortation is also a part of preaching the Word (2Ti 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 Ro 12:8: The Greek word used here for "simplicity" is "HAPLOTES." According to Vine's Expository Dictionary, this word denotes "simplicity, sincerity, unaffectedness," but it can also mean "simplicity as manifested in generous giving." Most scholars agree that in this case, it is expressing generosity. Therefore, Paul was saying that those who have a ministry of giving should be generous in their giving.
Note 8 at Ro 12:8: The Greek word translated "ruleth" here is "PROISTEMI," and it means "to stand before, i.e. (in rank) to preside" (Strong's Concordance). 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 Ro 12:8: The Greek word that was translated "cheerfulness" here is "HILAROTES," and it means "alacrity" (Strong's Concordance). "Alacrity," according to the American Heritage Dictionary, means "cheerful willingness; eagerness." HILAROTES comes from the Greek word "HILAROS," which is where we get our word "hilarious." Therefore, Paul was admonishing those who show mercy to be hilarious in their administration of this gift.
