Rom 12:17, 1Pe 3:9 | JFB | STEP | 17. Recompense-- "Recompensing," &c.--(See on ). Provide-- "Providing" things honest-- "honorable" in the sight of all men-- The idea (which is from ) is the care which Christians should take so to demean themselves as to command the respect of all men.

‏ Romans 12:17

17. Recompense--"Recompensing," &c.--(See on Ro 12:14).

Provide--"Providing"

things honest--"honorable"

in the sight of all men--The idea (which is from Pr 3:4) is the care which Christians should take so to demean themselves as to command the respect of all men.

‏ 1 Peter 3:9

9. evil--in deed.

railing--in word.

blessing--your revilers; participle, not a noun after "rendering."

knowing that--The oldest manuscripts read merely, "because."

are--Greek, "were called."

inherit a blessing--not only passive, but also active; receiving spiritual blessing from God by faith, and in your turn blessing others from love [Gerhard in Alford]. "It is not in order to inherit a blessing that we must bless, but because our portion is blessing." No railing can injure you (1Pe 3:13). Imitate God who "blesses" you. The first fruits of His blessing for eternity are enjoyed by the righteous even now (1Pe 3:10) [Bengel].