Bible Commands, Do’s and Don’ts in Romans
The Book of Romans is packed with clear truths about salvation, grace, and Christian living — but it also includes direct commands, moral instructions, and spiritual responsibilities. This page highlights every imperative in Romans — everything God tells us to do, and not do — so that believers can live in obedience, grow in holiness, and walk in the Spirit according to the Word of God.
Note: Some of these Do’s and Don’ts (aka Bible Imperatives) are “Implied.” For any that are, it should have the word “Implied” in parenthesis next to it.
ROMANS 1 – Imperatives
1. “Serve God in your spirit” (v. 9, implied) — Paul models inward, spiritual service to God, suggesting the kind of genuine devotion we should imitate.
For God is my witness, whom I serve with my spirit in the gospel of His Son, that without ceasing I mention you always in my prayers. Romans 1:9 (MEV)
2. “Be mutually encouraged by each other’s faith” (v. 12, implied) — Paul highlights the value of shared faith for mutual strengthening. The implication is clear: believers should seek this kind of faith-based encouragement.
that is, that I may be encouraged together with you by each other’s faith, both yours and mine. Romans 1:12 (MEV)
3. “Be eager to preach the gospel” (v. 15, implied) — Paul’s zeal to proclaim the gospel sets a tone for every believer’s readiness to share the good news.
So I am eager to preach the gospel to you also who are in Rome. Romans 1:15 (ESV)
4. “Do not be ashamed of the gospel” (v. 16) — This is imperative in spirit: a call to fearless allegiance to the message of Christ.
For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ. For it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first, and also to the Greek. Romans 1:16 (MEV)
5. “Live by faith” (v. 17, implied) — Cited from Habakkuk, the righteous life is shown to be one of faith. It’s not directly commanded but stated as the defining mark of the just.
For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith to faith. As it is written, “The just shall live by faith.” Romans 1:17 (MEV)
ROMANS 2 – Imperatives
1. “Do not judge hypocritically” (v. 1) — Paul rebukes those who pass judgment on others while practicing the same sins themselves. The clear implication: judge with integrity or not at all.
Therefore you are without excuse, O man, whoever you are who judges. For when you judge another, you condemn yourself, for you who judge do the same things. Romans 2:1 (MEV)
2. “Do not presume upon God’s kindness” (v. 4, implied) — Paul exposes the danger of taking God’s grace lightly. His rhetorical question points to a clear call: respond to God’s kindness with repentance.
Or do you despise the riches of His goodness, tolerance, and patience, not knowing that the goodness of God leads you to repentance? Romans 2:4 (MEV)
3. “Repent in light of God’s coming judgment” (v. 5, implied) — The buildup of wrath against the unrepentant implies an urgent call to turn from sin before the day of judgment.
But because of your hardness and impenitent heart, you are storing up for yourself wrath on the day of wrath, when the righteous judgment of God will be revealed. Romans 2:5 (ESV)
4. “Do good and seek glory, honor, and immortality” (v. 7, implied) — Paul describes what God will grant to the righteous. Though not a command, the implication is strong: live in pursuit of these eternal values.
To those who by patiently doing good seek for glory and honor and immortality will be eternal life. Romans 2:7 (MEV)
5. “Do not be self-seeking or disobedient to the truth” (v. 8, implied) — God’s judgment falls on those who live for themselves and reject the truth. The implied imperative: turn from selfishness and submit to the truth.
But to those who are contentious and do not obey the truth, but obey unrighteousness, indignation and wrath will come. Romans 2:8 (MEV)
6. “Obey the law written on your heart” (vv. 14–15, implied) — Even those without the written law are held accountable to an internal moral compass. The implied call: listen to and follow your God-given conscience.
For when Gentiles, who do not have the law, by nature do the things contained in the law, these, not having the law, are a law unto themselves,
who show the work of the law written in their hearts, their consciences also bearing witness, while their conflicting thoughts either accuse or excuse them. Romans 2:14–15 (MEV)
7. “Be a true Jew inwardly—with a circumcised heart” (v. 29, implied) — Paul redefines what it means to belong to God: not by outward ritual, but inward transformation. The implied imperative: seek heart-level change.
But he is a Jew who is one inwardly, and circumcision is a matter of the heart, by the Spirit and not by the letter, whose praise is not from men, but from God. Romans 2:29 (MEV)
8. “Do good work to receive glory, honor, and peace” (v. 10, implied) — Paul describes what God will give to those who do good. The context implies a call to actively pursue doing good in light of God’s righteous judgment.
But glory, honor, and peace will be to every man who does good work—to the Jew first, and also to the Gentile. Romans 2:10 (MEV)
ROMANS 3 – Imperatives
1. “Do not slander God by your sin” (v. 8, implied) — Paul rebukes the twisted idea that sinning somehow glorifies God. The clear implication: do not justify wrongdoing by claiming it promotes God’s righteousness.
And why not say, “Let us do evil that good may come”?—as we are slanderously reported and as some affirm that we say. Their condemnation is just. Romans 3:8 (MEV)
2. “Acknowledge that no one is righteous on their own” (vv. 10–12, implied) — Paul strings together Old Testament quotes to make this undeniable: all have turned away. The implied call is to humble yourself before God’s standard.
As it is written: “There is none righteous, no, not one; there is no one who understands; there is no one who seeks after God. They have all turned aside; together they have become worthless; there is no one who does good, no, not one.” Romans 3:10–12 (MEV)
3. “Let every mouth be stopped before God” (v. 19) — This is not only descriptive but also imperative in tone. When confronted by God’s law, the only right response is silence and submission.
Now we know that whatever the law says, it says to those who are under the law, so that every mouth may be silenced and all the world may become guilty before God. Romans 3:19 (MEV)
4. “Believe in Jesus to be justified freely by grace” (vv. 22–24, implied) — The only hope for sinners is faith in Christ. Paul describes this as the sole path to justification, implying a clear call to believe.
even the righteousness of God, which comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all and upon all who believe, for there is no distinction. For all have sinned and come short of the glory of God, being justified freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus. Romans 3:22–24 (MEV)
5. “Have faith in His blood” (v. 25) — While descriptive, this statement implies a clear action—faith in Christ’s atoning sacrifice is the means of receiving mercy.
God has set forth Jesus to be a propitiation through faith in His blood, for a demonstration of His righteousness, because in His forbearance God had passed over the sins previously committed. Romans 3:25 (MEV)
6. “Do not boast—boasting is excluded” (v. 27) — Paul decisively rules out any room for pride in salvation. The imperative is clear: reject all self-exalting attitudes.
Where is boasting then? It is excluded. Through what law? The law of works? No, but through the law of faith. Romans 3:27 (MEV)
ROMANS 4 – Imperatives
1. “Do not boast in your works” (v. 2, implied) — Paul states that Abraham had no grounds for boasting before God. The implied call: abandon all pride in your own righteousness.
For if Abraham was justified by works, he has something to boast about, but not before God. Romans 4:2 (MEV)
2. “Believe God, and it will be counted as righteousness” (v. 3, implied) — Paul quotes Genesis to show that righteousness is given through faith, not works. The implied command is simple: believe as Abraham did.
For what does the Scripture say? “Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness.” Romans 4:3 (MEV)
3. “Do not work to earn righteousness—receive it by faith” (v. 5, implied) — Paul contrasts faith and works as means of justification. The implication: stop trying to earn God’s favor; trust Him instead.
But to him who does not work, but believes in Him who justifies the ungodly, his faith is credited as righteousness. Romans 4:5 (MEV)
4. “Blessed are those who are forgiven—rejoice in your justification” (vv. 7–8, implied) — While a quote from David, this joyful truth carries an implicit call to rejoice in God’s mercy and live in the freedom of forgiveness.
“Blessed are those whose iniquities are forgiven, and whose sins are covered; blessed is the man to whom the Lord shall not impute sin.” Romans 4:7–8 (MEV)
5. “Walk in the steps of Abraham’s faith” (v. 12) — This is a clear and direct implied imperative. We are told who Abraham is a father to: those who walk like he did—in faith.
and the father of circumcision to those who are not only of the circumcision, but who also walk in the steps of the faith of our father Abraham, which he had while still uncircumcised. Romans 4:12 (MEV)
6. “Do not waver in unbelief—grow strong in faith” (v. 20, implied) — Abraham’s unwavering trust is held up as the model. The implied imperative: imitate his strength of faith.
He did not waver at the promise of God through unbelief, but was strong in faith, giving glory to God. Romans 4:20 (MEV)
7. “Be fully convinced that God will do what He promised” (v. 21, implied) — Abraham’s faith was not vague but deeply confident. The implied call is to trust God’s character and promises completely.
and being fully persuaded that what God had promised, He was able to perform. Romans 4:21 (MEV)
8. “Believe in Him who raised Jesus from the dead” (v. 24, implied) — Paul makes it personal: this righteousness by faith is for us too—if we believe. The implication is direct: believe in the risen Christ.
but for us also, to whom it shall be credited if we believe in Him who raised Jesus our Lord from the dead. Romans 4:24 (MEV)
ROMANS 5 – Imperatives
1. “Be at peace with God through faith in Jesus” (v. 1, implied) — Since we have been justified by faith, the implication is to embrace and live in that peace—no longer resisting or doubting.
Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. Romans 5:1 (MEV)
2. “Rejoice in the hope of God’s glory” (v. 2, implied) — This is not just a statement of fact, but an implied call to actively rejoice in the sure hope that believers have in Christ.
through whom we also have access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and so we rejoice in hope of the glory of God. Romans 5:2 (MEV)
3. “Rejoice in tribulation” (v. 3) — This is both descriptive and imperative in tone: Paul presents it as the proper Christian response, grounded in what trials produce.
Not only so, but we also boast in tribulation, knowing that tribulation produces patience. Romans 5:3 (MEV)
4. “Let the love of God be poured into your heart by the Spirit” (v. 5, implied) — This is presented as a fact for believers, but the context implies the necessity of living in dependence on the Spirit to experience God’s love.
And hope does not disappoint, because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who has been given to us. Romans 5:5 (MEV)
5. “Receive the abundance of grace and the gift of righteousness” (v. 17, implied) — This statement describes the path to reigning in life. The implied imperative: don’t resist—receive what God freely offers.
For if by one man’s trespass death reigned through him, then how much more will those who receive abundance of grace and the gift of righteousness reign in life through the One, Jesus Christ. Romans 5:17 (MEV)
ROMANS 6 – Imperatives
1. “Do not continue in sin” (v. 1, implied) — Paul asks if grace gives us permission to sin. The implied answer is a clear and emphatic no.
What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin that grace may increase? Romans 6:1 (MEV)
2. “Know that you were baptized into Christ’s death” (v. 3, implied) — This is doctrinal, but also forms the foundation for how a believer must think about their new identity. The implication: be conscious of this truth.
Do you not know that we who were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into His death? Romans 6:3 (MEV)
3. “Walk in newness of life” (v. 4) — This is a direct imperative expressed through the expected result of our union with Christ. It’s a command to live a transformed life.
Therefore we were buried with Him by baptism into death, that just as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, so we also should walk in newness of life. Romans 6:4 (MEV)
4. “Reckon yourselves dead to sin but alive to God” (v. 11) — This is one of the clearest commands in the chapter. Believers are instructed to think and live from this truth.
Likewise, you also consider yourselves to be dead to sin, but alive to God through Jesus Christ our Lord. Romans 6:11 (MEV)
5. “Do not let sin reign in your body” (v. 12) — A clear and strong command to resist sin’s control in daily life.
Therefore, do not let sin reign in your mortal body, that you should obey it in its lusts. Romans 6:12 (MEV)
6. “Do not yield your members to sin” (v. 13a) — Another direct instruction—don’t present any part of yourself to sin for its purposes.
Do not yield your members to sin as instruments of unrighteousness, but yield yourselves to God, as those who are alive from the dead. Romans 6:13 (MEV)
7. “Yield yourselves to God” (v. 13b) — The flip side of v. 13a: offer yourself to God in active, obedient submission.
but yield yourselves to God, as those who are alive from the dead, and your bodies to God as instruments of righteousness. Romans 6:13 (MEV)
8. “Do not sin under grace” (v. 15, implied) — Paul again anticipates a twisted view of grace. The strong implication: grace is never a license to sin.
What then? Shall we sin because we are not under the law but under grace? God forbid! Romans 6:15 (MEV)
9. “Present yourselves as obedient slaves to righteousness” (v. 16, implied) — Paul uses the analogy of slavery to make it clear: your allegiance must be to righteousness, not sin.
Do you not know that to whom you yield yourselves as slaves to obey, you are slaves of the one whom you obey, whether of sin to death, or of obedience to righteousness? Romans 6:16 (MEV)
10. “Now yield your members as slaves to righteousness” (v. 19) — A restatement of the earlier command, emphasizing progressive sanctification.
Just as you have yielded your members as slaves to impurity and iniquity, leading to more iniquity, even so now yield your members as slaves to righteousness unto holiness. Romans 6:19 (MEV)
11. “Be ashamed of your former sinful life” (v. 21, implied) — Paul appeals to the believer’s conscience. The implied call: view your past sin as shameful, not neutral or nostalgic.
What fruit did you have then from the things of which you are now ashamed? For the end of those things is death. Romans 6:21 (MEV)
12. “Now live as a servant of God, bearing fruit unto holiness” (v. 22, implied) — The closing contrast points to the life God calls us to now. The implied imperative is a call to pursue holiness and eternal life.
But now, having been freed from sin and having become slaves of God, you have fruit unto holiness, and the end is eternal life. Romans 6:22 (MEV)
ROMANS 7 – Imperatives
1. “Do not live under the law—die to it through Christ” (v. 4, implied) — Paul says believers have died to the law through the body of Christ. The implied imperative: no longer serve God through legalism, but in spiritual union with Christ.
Therefore, my brothers, you also have become dead to the law through the body of Christ, that you may be joined to another, even to Him who was raised from the dead, in order that we may bear fruit to God. Romans 7:4 (MEV)
2. “Serve in the new way of the Spirit, not the old way of the letter” (v. 6) — This is not phrased as a command but is clearly imperative in tone: the way we live must be transformed.
But now we are delivered from the law, having died to things in which we were bound, so that we may serve in newness of the Spirit and not in the oldness of the letter. Romans 7:6 (MEV)
3. “Acknowledge the true purpose of the law—to expose sin” (v. 7, implied) — Paul corrects any misunderstanding that the law is sinful. The implied call is to rightly understand and use the law.
What shall we say then? Is the law sin? God forbid! Indeed, I would not have known sin except through the law. For I would not have known coveting unless the law had said, “You shall not covet.” Romans 7:7 (MEV)
4. “Do not rely on the law to produce life” (v. 10, implied) — Paul says the commandment, which was intended to bring life, actually brought death because of sin. The implication: seek life in Christ, not the law.
And the commandment, which was intended for life, proved to be death to me. Romans 7:10 (MEV)
5. “Agree with the law that it is good” (v. 16, implied) — Paul expresses that even in his struggle with sin, he affirms the law as holy. The implication: don’t resist God’s law—agree with its goodness.
But if I do what I do not want, I agree with the law that it is good. Romans 7:16 (MEV)
6. “Acknowledge your need for deliverance from sin’s power” (v. 24, implied) — Paul cries out for rescue, modeling a humble recognition of his inability to save himself. The implied imperative: cry out to God for deliverance.
O wretched man that I am! Who will deliver me from this body of death? Romans 7:24 (MEV)
ROMANS 8 – Imperatives
1. “Walk not according to the flesh but according to the Spirit” (v. 4, implied) — Paul contrasts two ways of living. The implication is clear: believers are called to walk in step with the Spirit.
so that the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit. Romans 8:4 (MEV)
2. “Set your mind on the things of the Spirit” (v. 5, implied) — Paul draws a sharp contrast between fleshly and spiritual mindsets. The implied imperative: deliberately focus your thoughts on the things of God.
For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit, the things of the Spirit. Romans 8:5 (MEV)
3. “Do not live according to the flesh” (v. 13a) — A clear and urgent warning: living by the flesh leads to death. This is a strongly implied imperative not to follow the old sinful nature.
For if you live according to the flesh, you will die. But if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live. Romans 8:13 (MEV)
4. “Put to death the deeds of the body by the Spirit” (v. 13b) — This is a strong, action-oriented call to mortify sin by the power of the Holy Spirit.
But if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live. Romans 8:13 (MEV)
5. “Do not fear—live as adopted sons of God” (v. 15, implied) — Paul reminds believers they have not received a spirit of fear. The implication: live with the confidence and assurance of being God’s child.
For you have not received the spirit of slavery again to fear. But you have received the Spirit of adoption, by whom we cry, “Abba, Father.” Romans 8:15 (MEV)
6. “Hope eagerly for what is not yet seen” (v. 25, implied) — Paul describes the nature of Christian hope: longing for what is promised but not yet visible. The implied imperative is to continue hoping with patience.
But if we hope for what we do not see, we wait for it with patience. Romans 8:25 (ESV)
7. “Rely on the Spirit’s help in your weakness” (v. 26, implied) — Paul says the Spirit helps us when we don’t know how to pray. The implication: don’t despair or rely on self—depend on the Spirit.
Likewise, the Spirit helps us in our weaknesses. For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit Himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words. Romans 8:26 (ESV)
8. “Trust that God is working all things for your good” (v. 28, implied) — This well-known verse is often comfort, but it’s also a call to trust God’s sovereign hand in every circumstance.
And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose. Romans 8:28 (MEV)
9. “Be fully convinced that nothing can separate you from God’s love” (vv. 38–39, implied) — Paul’s climactic assurance calls believers to rest in the unshakable love of God. The implied imperative: stand firm in this truth.
For I am persuaded that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come,
nor height, nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 8:38–39 (MEV)
ROMANS 9 – Imperatives
1. “Have great sorrow and continual grief for the lost” (v. 2, implied) — Paul models a broken heart for those who are cut off from Christ. His example implies that we too should carry deep burden for the unsaved.
I have great sorrow and continual grief in my heart. Romans 9:2 (MEV)
2. “Be willing to be accursed for the sake of others’ salvation” (v. 3, implied) — This extreme statement from Paul shows radical selflessness. It’s not commanded explicitly, but the attitude is commended.
For I could wish that I myself were accursed from Christ for my brothers, my kinsmen by race. Romans 9:3 (MEV)
3. “Do not question God’s justice” (v. 14, implied) — The rhetorical question “Is there unrighteousness with God?” expects a firm no. The implication: do not accuse God of injustice.
What shall we say then? Is there unrighteousness with God? God forbid! Romans 9:14 (MEV)
4. “Do not resist God’s will with arrogance” (v. 20) — A direct rebuke to human pride that challenges God’s authority. This is clearly imperative in tone.
But who are you, O man, to answer back to God? Shall the thing formed say to him who formed it, “Why have you made me like this?” Romans 9:20 (MEV)
5. “Pursue righteousness by faith, not by works” (vv. 30–32, implied) — Israel stumbled because they pursued the law as if it were by works. The lesson: seek righteousness the way God designed—through faith.
What shall we say then? That the Gentiles, who did not pursue righteousness, have attained righteousness, even the righteousness which is by faith.
But Israel, pursuing the law of righteousness, did not attain the law of righteousness. Why? Because they did not seek it by faith, but by the works of the law. They stumbled over the stumbling stone. Romans 9:30–32 (MEV)
ROMANS 10 – Imperatives
1. “Desire and pray for the salvation of others” (v. 1, implied) — Paul shows his heart for Israel’s salvation. His example implies that we too should desire and pray for the lost.
Brothers, my heart’s desire and prayer to God for Israel is that they may be saved. Romans 10:1 (MEV)
2. “Do not establish your own righteousness—submit to God’s righteousness” (v. 3) — This is a direct rebuke of self-righteousness. The clear imperative is to stop trusting in yourself and submit to God’s way.
For they, being ignorant of God’s righteousness and seeking to establish their own righteousness, did not submit to the righteousness of God. Romans 10:3 (MEV)
3. “Believe in your heart that God raised Jesus from the dead” (v. 9) — This is an essential gospel command, not merely a suggestion. It is one half of the command for salvation.
that if you confess with your mouth Jesus as Lord, and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. Romans 10:9 (MEV)
4. “Confess Jesus as Lord with your mouth” (v. 9) — The other half of the gospel call: outward confession of Christ’s lordship.
that if you confess with your mouth Jesus as Lord, and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. Romans 10:9 (MEV)
5. “Call on the name of the Lord to be saved” (v. 13) — This is a powerful and universal command to everyone: call on Jesus Christ for salvation.
For “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved.” Romans 10:13 (MEV)
6. “Preach the gospel so others can hear and believe” (v. 14, implied) — Paul argues backward from salvation to the necessity of preaching. The implied call: go and preach so people can be saved.
How then shall they call on Him in whom they have not believed? And how shall they believe in Him of whom they have not heard? And how shall they hear without a preacher? Romans 10:14 (MEV)
7. “Be sent to preach” (v. 15, implied) — Preaching requires someone to go. The implication is strong: be willing to go when God sends you.
And how shall they preach unless they are sent? As it is written: “How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the gospel of peace, who bring glad tidings of good things!” Romans 10:15 (MEV)
8. “Hear the word of God in order to believe” (v. 17, implied) — Faith doesn’t come randomly—it comes by hearing the word. The implied imperative: expose yourself to God’s word so your faith can grow.
So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God. Romans 10:17 (MEV)
ROMANS 11 – Imperatives
1. “Do not boast over the branches (Israel)” (v. 18) — Paul warns Gentile believers not to be arrogant toward Jews. This is a direct and clear command.
Do not boast against the branches. If you boast, remember you do not support the root, but the root supports you. Romans 11:18 (MEV)
2. “Do not become proud—fear” (v. 20) — Paul exhorts the Gentiles to maintain humility, knowing they were grafted in by faith. Pride leads to being cut off.
Well said. Because of unbelief they were broken off, and you stand by faith. Do not be arrogant, but fear. Romans 11:20 (MEV)
3. “Continue in God’s kindness” (v. 22) — This is a conditional warning: continuing in God’s kindness results in blessing; otherwise, you too will be cut off.
Therefore consider the goodness and severity of God: severity toward those who fell, but goodness toward you, if you continue in His goodness. Otherwise you also will be cut off. Romans 11:22 (MEV)
4. “Do not be wise in your own sight” (v. 25) — A clear and timeless warning against spiritual arrogance, especially toward God’s plan and people.
For I do not want you, brothers, to be ignorant of this mystery, lest you be wise in your own opinion: blindness in part has come upon Israel, until the fullness of the Gentiles has come in. Romans 11:25 (MEV)
ROMANS 12 – Imperatives
1. “Present your bodies as a living sacrifice to God” (v. 1) — Paul appeals to believers to surrender their entire lives to God as an act of worship.
I beseech you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service of worship. Romans 12:1 (MEV)
2. “Do not be conformed to this world” (v. 2a) — A direct command to resist being shaped by worldly values.
Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is the good and acceptable and perfect will of God. Romans 12:2 (MEV)
3. “Be transformed by the renewing of your mind” (v. 2b) — This imperative shows that change starts internally by aligning our thinking with God’s truth.
Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is the good and acceptable and perfect will of God. Romans 12:2 (MEV)
4. “Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought” (v. 3) — A strong command to humility and sober self-assessment.
For I say through the grace given to me, to everyone among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think with sound judgment, according to the measure of faith God has distributed to every man. Romans 12:3 (MEV)
5. “Think with sound judgment” (v. 3b, implied) — The contrast implies the correct mindset believers are to adopt: measured, humble thinking.
…but to think with sound judgment, according to the measure of faith God has distributed to every man. Romans 12:3 (MEV)
6. “Use your spiritual gifts” (vv. 6–8, implied) — Paul describes various gifts and says “let us use them.” The clear implication: serve the body with what God has given you.
Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, let us use them: if prophecy, in proportion to our faith; if service, in our serving; he who teaches, in teaching;
he who exhorts, in exhortation; he who gives, with generosity; he who leads, with diligence; he who shows mercy, with cheerfulness. Romans 12:6–8 (MEV)
7. “Let love be without hypocrisy” (v. 9a) — A call for genuine, sincere love.
Let love be without hypocrisy. Abhor what is evil. Cling to what is good. Romans 12:9 (MEV)
8. “Abhor what is evil” (v. 9b) — Christians are not just to avoid evil—they are to hate it.
Let love be without hypocrisy. Abhor what is evil. Cling to what is good. Romans 12:9 (MEV)
9. “Cling to what is good” (v. 9c) — A passionate command to hold tightly to what pleases God.
Let love be without hypocrisy. Abhor what is evil. Cling to what is good. Romans 12:9 (MEV)
10. “Be kindly affectionate to one another” (v. 10a) — A command to practice brotherly love among believers.
Be kindly affectionate to one another with brotherly love, in honor preferring one another. Romans 12:10 (MEV)
11. “Honor others above yourselves” (v. 10b) — A humility-driven imperative to put others first.
Be kindly affectionate to one another with brotherly love, in honor preferring one another. Romans 12:10 (MEV)
12. “Do not be lazy in zeal” (v. 11a) — A clear call to stay spiritually motivated.
Do not be lazy in zeal. Be fervent in spirit. Serve the Lord. Romans 12:11 (MEV)
13. “Be fervent in spirit” (v. 11b) — A command to keep your spiritual fire burning.
Do not be lazy in zeal. Be fervent in spirit. Serve the Lord. Romans 12:11 (MEV)
14. “Serve the Lord” (v. 11c) — The ultimate direction: all our passion and effort should go toward serving Christ.
Do not be lazy in zeal. Be fervent in spirit. Serve the Lord. Romans 12:11 (MEV)
15. “Rejoice in hope” (v. 12a) — Even in hardship, believers are commanded to celebrate the hope they have in Christ.
Rejoice in hope, be patient in suffering, persevere in prayer. Romans 12:12 (MEV)
16. “Be patient in suffering” (v. 12b) — A direct call to endurance in difficulty.
Rejoice in hope, be patient in suffering, persevere in prayer. Romans 12:12 (MEV)
17. “Persevere in prayer” (v. 12c) — Prayer is not optional—it must be continual and persistent.
Rejoice in hope, be patient in suffering, persevere in prayer. Romans 12:12 (MEV)
18. “Contribute to the needs of the saints” (v. 13a) — A command to meet practical needs in the body of Christ.
Contribute to the needs of the saints, practice hospitality. Romans 12:13 (MEV)
19. “Practice hospitality” (v. 13b) — An active, intentional command to open your life and home to others.
Contribute to the needs of the saints, practice hospitality. Romans 12:13 (MEV)
20. “Bless those who persecute you” (v. 14a) — One of the most radical commands in Christian ethics: respond to hostility with kindness.
Bless those who persecute you; bless, and do not curse. Romans 12:14 (MEV)
21. “Do not curse them” (v. 14b) — Explicitly forbid returning evil with evil.
Bless those who persecute you; bless, and do not curse. Romans 12:14 (MEV)
22. “Rejoice with those who rejoice” (v. 15a) — Enter into others’ joy intentionally and with empathy.
Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep. Romans 12:15 (MEV)
24. “Live in harmony with one another” (v. 16a) — A call to unity in attitude and relationship.
Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but associate with the lowly. Do not pretend to be wiser than you are. Romans 12:16 (MEV)
25. “Do not be proud—associate with the lowly” (v. 16b) — A double command to reject pride and intentionally include the humble.
Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but associate with the lowly. Do not pretend to be wiser than you are. Romans 12:16 (MEV)
26. “Do not pretend to be wiser than you are” (v. 16c) — A command to honest humility.
Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but associate with the lowly. Do not pretend to be wiser than you are. Romans 12:16 (MEV)
27. “Do not repay anyone evil for evil” (v. 17a) — A foundational Christian ethic: break the cycle of revenge.
Repay no one evil for evil. Commend what is honest in the sight of all men. Romans 12:17 (MEV)
28. “Commend what is honest in the sight of all” (v. 17b) — Live with visible integrity before others.
Repay no one evil for evil. Commend what is honest in the sight of all men. Romans 12:17 (MEV)
29. “If possible, live peaceably with everyone” (v. 18) — A balanced but clear imperative to pursue peace when it depends on you.
If it is possible, as much as it depends on you, live peaceably with all men. Romans 12:18 (MEV)
30. “Do not avenge yourselves” (v. 19a) — Believers are forbidden to take vengeance into their own hands.
Beloved, do not avenge yourselves, but rather give place to God’s wrath. Romans 12:19 (MEV)
31. “Give place to God’s wrath” (v. 19b) — Let God handle justice; it belongs to Him alone.
Beloved, do not avenge yourselves, but rather give place to God’s wrath. For it is written, “Vengeance is Mine. I will repay,” says the Lord. Romans 12:19 (MEV)
32. “Feed your enemy if he is hungry” (v. 20a) — The radical call to love even your enemies with practical kindness.
Therefore, “If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him a drink; for in so doing you will heap coals of fire on his head.” Romans 12:20 (MEV)
33. “Give your enemy a drink if he is thirsty” (v. 20b) — A command that reinforces mercy over retaliation.
Therefore, “If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him a drink; for in so doing you will heap coals of fire on his head.” Romans 12:20 (MEV)
34. “Do not be overcome by evil” (v. 21a) — A warning and a call to resistance against sin’s influence.
Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good. Romans 12:21 (MEV)
35. “Overcome evil with good” (v. 21b) — A victorious, active imperative: conquer evil with righteousness.
Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good. Romans 12:21 (MEV)
ROMANS 13 – Imperatives
1. “Be subject to the governing authorities” (v. 1) — This is a direct and comprehensive command to submit to all legitimate civil authority.
Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those that exist are appointed by God. Romans 13:1 (MEV)
2. “Do not resist the authority” (v. 2) — Resisting legitimate authority is equated with resisting God Himself.
Therefore whoever resists the authority resists what God has appointed, and those who resist will incur judgment. Romans 13:2 (MEV)
3. “Do what is good to avoid fear of rulers” (v. 3, implied) — The implication is clear: live rightly so that civil authorities have no reason to punish you.
For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to evil. Do you wish to be unafraid of the authority? Do what is good, and you will have praise from him. Romans 13:3 (MEV)
4. “Pay what you owe: taxes, revenue, respect, and honor” (v. 7) — This sweeping command covers all categories of civil obligation.
Render to everyone what you owe them: taxes to whom taxes are due, revenue to whom revenue is due, respect to whom respect is due, honor to whom honor is due. Romans 13:7 (MEV)
5. “Owe no one anything, except to love one another” (v. 8a) — This is a command to stay clear of unpaid obligations, with the exception of ongoing love.
Owe no one anything, except to love one another, for he who loves another has fulfilled the law. Romans 13:8 (MEV)
6. “Love your neighbor as yourself” (v. 9) — Paul cites this as the summary of all relational commandments. It stands as a moral imperative.
The commandments: “Do not commit adultery,” “Do not murder,” “Do not steal,” “Do not covet,” and any other commandments are summed up in this saying: “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” Romans 13:9 (MEV)
7. “Do this, knowing the time” (v. 11a) — A call to urgency: live righteously in view of the approaching return of Christ.
Furthermore, knowing the time, now is the moment to awake from sleep. For now our salvation is nearer than when we believed. Romans 13:11 (MEV)
8. “Awake from sleep” (v. 11b) — A figurative command to shake off spiritual sluggishness and live alertly.
Furthermore, knowing the time, now is the moment to awake from sleep. For now our salvation is nearer than when we believed. Romans 13:11 (MEV)
9. “Cast off the works of darkness” (v. 12a) — A clear command to remove sinful behavior and habits as one would discard filthy clothing.
The night is far spent, the day is at hand. Therefore let us cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armor of light. Romans 13:12 (MEV)
10. “Put on the armor of light” (v. 12b) — The counterpart to removing darkness: take up righteousness and spiritual readiness.
The night is far spent, the day is at hand. Therefore let us cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armor of light. Romans 13:12 (MEV)
11. “Walk properly, as in the day” (v. 13a) — Live visibly upright and morally clear, not hidden in sin.
Let us walk honestly, as in the day, not in carousing and drunkenness, not in immorality and wickedness, not in strife and envy. Romans 13:13 (MEV)
12. “Do not live in carousing, drunkenness, immorality, or strife” (v. 13b) — A direct list of behaviors to avoid for those walking in the light.
Let us walk honestly, as in the day, not in carousing and drunkenness, not in immorality and wickedness, not in strife and envy. Romans 13:13 (MEV)
13. “Put on the Lord Jesus Christ” (v. 14a) — A beautiful command: clothe yourself with the character and presence of Christ.
But put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh to fulfill its lusts. Romans 13:14 (MEV)
14. “Make no provision for the flesh” (v. 14b) — A firm command to deny the sinful nature any opportunity to rule.
But put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh to fulfill its lusts. Romans 13:14 (MEV)
ROMANS 14 – Imperatives
1. “Welcome the one who is weak in faith” (v. 1) — A direct command to receive, not reject, those with less mature or more restrictive convictions.
Receive him who is weak in faith, but not for the purpose of arguing over opinions. Romans 14:1 (MEV)
2. “Do not despise or judge fellow believers with different convictions” (v. 3) — Both strong and weak believers are warned: neither contempt nor judgment is acceptable.
Let not him who eats despise him who does not eat, and let not him who does not eat judge him who eats, for God has received him. Romans 14:3 (MEV)
3. “Do not pass judgment on the servant of another” (v. 4a) — Paul uses a rhetorical question to issue a firm warning: don’t assume God’s role in judging fellow believers.
Who are you to judge another’s servant? To his own master he stands or falls. He will be upheld, for God is able to make him stand. Romans 14:4 (MEV)
4. “Be fully convinced in your own mind” (v. 5, implied) — Rather than wavering or acting in doubt, Paul says believers should act out of personal conviction before God.
One person values one day above another; another values every day alike. Let each be fully persuaded in his own mind. Romans 14:5 (MEV)
5. “Do not judge or despise your brother” (v. 10a) — Paul repeats this relational warning. These attitudes damage the unity and grace of the Body.
Why do you judge your brother? Or why do you despise your brother? For we shall all stand before the judgment seat of Christ. Romans 14:10 (MEV)
6. “Do not put a stumbling block or obstacle in your brother’s way” (v. 13b) — A strong relational imperative: our liberty must never cause someone else to sin.
Therefore let us not judge one another anymore. Instead, resolve this: not to put a stumbling block or an obstacle in a brother’s way. Romans 14:13 (MEV)
7. “Do not let what is good for you be spoken of as evil” (v. 16) — Paul calls believers to preserve their Christian testimony, even when practicing personal freedoms.
Therefore do not let your good be spoken of as evil. Romans 14:16 (MEV)
8. “Pursue what makes for peace and mutual upbuilding” (v. 19) — A clear and proactive call to foster harmony, not division, within the church.
Therefore let us pursue the things which produce peace and the things that build up one another. Romans 14:19 (MEV)
9. “Do not destroy the work of God for the sake of food” (v. 20a) — A serious warning: Christian liberty is never worth tearing down a brother or sister’s walk with God.
Do not destroy the work of God for the sake of food. All things indeed are clean, but it is evil for the man who causes someone to fall by what he eats. Romans 14:20 (MEV)
10. “It is good not to eat or drink if it causes someone to stumble” (v. 21, implied) — While phrased positively, this is an implied imperative: restrain your liberty out of love for others.
It is good neither to eat meat, nor to drink wine, nor do anything by which your brother stumbles, or is offended, or is made weak. Romans 14:21 (MEV)
11. “Keep your convictions between yourself and God” (v. 22) — A gracious instruction: not every liberty needs to be exercised publicly.
The faith that you have, keep it to yourself before God. Blessed is the one who does not condemn himself by what he approves. Romans 14:22 (ESV)
ROMANS 15 – Imperatives
1. “Bear with the failings of the weak” (v. 1) — A clear call to patience and gentleness toward those who struggle or lack maturity.
We who are strong ought to bear with the failings of the weak, and not to please ourselves. Romans 15:1 (ESV)
2. “Do not live to please yourself” (v. 1b, implied) — The second half of verse 1 is not phrased as a command, but its contrast implies this imperative clearly.
We who are strong ought to bear with the failings of the weak, and not to please ourselves. Romans 15:1 (ESV)
3. “Please your neighbor for their good, to build them up” (v. 2) — Instead of self-pleasing, we’re commanded to pursue others’ benefit.
Let each of us please his neighbor for his good, leading to edification. Romans 15:2 (MEV)
4. “Welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you” (v. 7) — A powerful relational command rooted in the gospel: show others the same grace God showed you.
Therefore welcome one another, just as Christ also welcomed us, for the glory of God. Romans 15:7 (MEV)
5. “Rejoice with the Gentiles” (v. 10, implied) — While this quotes the Old Testament, it is placed in a New Covenant context that carries an implied call to unity and shared joy in Christ.
And again he says: “Rejoice, O Gentiles, with His people!” Romans 15:10 (MEV)
6. “Praise the Lord, all you Gentiles” (v. 11, implied) — Another OT quote given in an imperative voice, showing that Gentile believers are now called into the worship of the one true God.
And again: “Praise the Lord, all you Gentiles! Let all the peoples extol Him.” Romans 15:11 (MEV)
7. “Strive together with me in prayer” (v. 30) — Paul invites believers to engage in spiritual warfare through intercession for his mission. This is a strong, active imperative.
Now I appeal to you, brothers, through the Lord Jesus Christ and through the love of the Spirit, to strive together with me in your prayers to God for me. Romans 15:30 (MEV)
ROMANS 16 – Imperatives
1. “Welcome Phoebe in the Lord” (v. 2a) — Paul gives a specific instruction to receive this sister in Christ with honor.
Welcome her in the Lord in a way worthy of the saints, and assist her in whatever matter she may need from you. Romans 16:2 (MEV)
2. “Assist her in whatever matter she may need” (v. 2b) — The church is commanded to provide practical help to Phoebe as she serves the Lord.
Welcome her in the Lord in a way worthy of the saints, and assist her in whatever matter she may need from you, for she has been a helper of many, including me. Romans 16:2 (MEV)
3. “Greet one another with a holy kiss” (v. 16) — A cultural command reflecting sincere, familial affection among believers.
Greet one another with a holy kiss. The churches of Christ greet you. Romans 16:16 (MEV)
4. “Watch out for those who cause divisions” (v. 17a) — A direct and serious warning against divisive individuals who oppose sound teaching.
Now I urge you, brothers, watch out for those who cause divisions and offenses contrary to the doctrine which you have learned. Romans 16:17 (MEV)
5. “Avoid them” (v. 17b) — Not only are we to identify false teachers and divisive people, we are commanded to avoid them entirely.
Now I urge you, brothers, watch out for those who cause divisions and offenses contrary to the doctrine which you have learned. Avoid them. Romans 16:17 (MEV)
List Of All The Do's & Don'ts in The Bible
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