Audio commentary on this verse

Note 5 at Rom. 12:11: There are many scriptures against slothfulness or laziness (see ref. k at this verse). Paul even went so far as to say, "this we commanded you, that if any would not work, neither should he eat" (2 Th. 3:10).

It is interesting that Paul speaks about not being slothful right after he mentions brotherly love and preferring one another. This adds a very important balance to brotherly love which many today are missing. While it is true that we have a responsibility to help others, it is also true that a handout doesn't help a lazy person.

When we support those who are living in direct disobedience to God's instructions regarding slothfulness, we are hurting that person. Charity should be reserved for those who need it, not those who abuse it.

Note 6 at Rom. 12:11: The Amplified translation of this verse indicates that the "spirit" that is being spoken of here is the Holy Spirit ("Never lag in zeal and in earnest endeavor; be aglow and burning with the Spirit, serving the Lord"). The New American Standard ("not lagging behind in diligence, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord") and the New International Version ("Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord") refer to "spirit" as our attitude.

The Greek word that was translated "spirit" is "pneuma." This word was used to distinguish the Holy Spirit many times (Examples: Mt. 3:16; 10:20; 12:28; Lk. 4:18; 11:13; Jn. 7:39; Acts 2:4) but it was also translated "spirit" when the context clearly indicates it is speaking of our attitude (Mt. 5:3; 1 Cor. 4:21; 2 Cor. 4:13; Eph. 1:17; 4:23; Phil. 1:27; 1 Tim. 4:12; Rev. 19:10).

"Pneuma" can mean "mental disposition." In this application "spirit" is speaking of our attitude. The American Heritage Dictionary defines spirit as "a prevailing mood or attitude."

Note 7 at Rom. 12:11: This same point was made in Ephesians 6:6-7 where Paul said, "Not with eyeservice, as menpleasers; but as the servants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart; with good will doing service, as to the Lord, and not to men." Paul is emphasizing that even in our business endeavors, we are serving the Lord and not man. He repeated this same thought in Colossians 3:23 when he said, "whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men."