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Romans 12:17

Made Simple — Modern English Translation

Translated by Verse Made Simple Editorial
KJV ORIGINAL
Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men.
Close to the original. Clear modern English.
✦ MADE SIMPLE

Don't pay back evil with evil. Instead, make sure you're doing what's right in everyone's eyes, be the kind of person others can respect.

⚡ THE BOTTOM LINE

Break the cycle, when someone wrongs you, choose to be better instead of getting even.

📚 Historical Context

The Apostle Paul wrote the letter to the Romans around 57 AD to a church in Rome, which was the capital of the Roman Empire and a hub of diverse cultures and religions. In this context, early Christians faced persecution and social pressures, so Paul urged them to live differently from the surrounding pagan society by promoting peace and moral integrity. This verse builds on Old Testament principles of justice and Jesus' teachings on non-retaliation, encouraging believers to break cycles of vengeance.

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