The word prophecy, in the New Testament, generally refers to the public preaching of the gospel, in the exercise of the higher spiritual gifts. The specifications which follow, Romans 12:6-8, are to be understood as referring not to distinct and separate offices, as has been sometimes supposed, but to the different classes of duties which devolved upon the various individuals of the church, arising either from offices which they held, or from their peculiar characteristics or positions. The general meaning is, that, whatever may be the peculiar duties which the individual is called upon to perform, according to his talents or position or circumstances he should give himself cheerfully to the work, feeling that he is thus coöperating with all his brethren, and that his brethren are coöperating with him.

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Verse 7

Verse 7

Ministry; the service Of the church in respect to its temporal concerns.

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Verse 9

Verse 9

Without dissimulation; honest, sincere.

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Verse 16

Verse 16

Mind not high things; that is, they were not to set their hearts on what is high and honorable in the estimation of the world.

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Verse 17

Verse 17

Things honest; things reputable, praiseworthy. That is, the Christian is to have a constant regard for the aspect in which his conduct and character exhibit themselves to mankind.

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Verse 19

Verse 19

Give place unto wrath,--to the wrath of God; that is, leave the work of retribution to him.

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Verse 20

Verse 20

Heap coals of fire upon his head; overwhelm him with shame and remorse for the injuries he has done you.

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RomansRom 11 RomansRom RomansRom 13

Bibliographical Information
Abbott, John S. C. & Abbott, Jacob. "Commentary on Romans 12". "Abbott's Illustrated New Testament". https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/eng/ain/romans-12.html. 1878.

Bible Commentaries
Romans 12

Abbott's Illustrated New TestamentAbbott's NT

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Bible CommentariesRomans 12

Abbott's Illustrated New TestamentAbbott's NT

Bible Commentaries
Romans 12