Romans 12:2

Authorized King James Version

And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.

Word-by-Word Analysis

καὶ

G2532

And

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

μὴ

G3361

not

(adverb) not, (conjunction) lest; also (as an interrogative implying a negative answer (whereas g3756 expects an affirmative one)) whether

συσχηματίζεσθε

G4964

to fashion alike, i.e., conform to the same pattern (figuratively)

τῷ

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

αἰῶνι

G165

world

properly, an age; by extension, perpetuity (also past); by implication, the world; specially (jewish) a messianic period (present or future)

τούτῳ

G5129

to this

to (in, with or by) this (person or thing)

ἀλλὰ

G235

but

properly, other things, i.e., (adverbially) contrariwise (in many relations)

μεταμορφοῦσθε

G3339

be ye transformed

to transform (literally or figuratively, "metamorphose")

τῇ

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

#10

ἀνακαινώσει

G342

by the renewing

renovation

#11

τοῦ

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

#12

νοός

G3563

mind

the intellect, i.e., mind (divine or human; in thought, feeling, or will); by implication, meaning

#13

ὑμῶν,

G5216

of your

of (from or concerning) you

#14

εἰς

G1519

that

to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases

#15

τὸ

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

#16

δοκιμάζειν

G1381

may prove

to test (literally or figuratively); by implication, to approve

#17

ὑμᾶς

G5209

you (as the objective of a verb or preposition)

#18

τί

G5101

what

an interrogative pronoun, who, which or what (in direct or indirect questions)

#19

τὸ

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

#20

θέλημα

G2307

will

a determination (properly, the thing), i.e., (actively) choice (specially, purpose, decree; abstractly, volition) or (passively) inclination

#21

τοῦ

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

#22

θεοῦ

G2316

of God

a deity, especially (with g3588) the supreme divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; exceedingly (by hebraism)

#23

τὸ

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

#24

ἀγαθὸν

G18

is that good

"good" (in any sense, often as noun)

#25

καὶ

G2532

And

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

#26

εὐάρεστον

G2101

acceptable

fully agreeable

#27

καὶ

G2532

And

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

#28

τέλειον

G5046

perfect

complete (in various applications of labor, growth, mental and moral character, etc.); neuter (as noun, with g3588) completeness

Cross References

Related verses that illuminate this passage (hover to preview):

¹ Ephesians 4:23 Ephesians 4:23
And be renewed in the spirit of your mind;
— Renewed in spirit of your mind
² Colossians 3:10 Colossians 3:10
And have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him:
— Renewed in knowledge

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Romans. The concept of divine sovereignty reflects justification by faith as the foundation of Christian hope. The divine name or title here functions within systematic theological exposition of the gospel to establish theological authority and covenantal relationship. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

Historical Context

The historical context of the early imperial period under Nero (c. 57 CE) provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The Roman Empire at its height, with sophisticated legal systems, diverse religious practices, and increasing Christian presence in major urban centers shaped Paul's theological arguments. The Greco-Roman urban culture with diverse religious and philosophical influences would have shaped how the original audience understood divine sovereignty. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Inscriptions from Corinth and Rome reveal the social dynamics and religious pluralism that shaped early Christian communities.

Questions for Reflection

What practical applications emerge from understanding salvation as presented in this verse, particularly in light of addressing questions of religious pluralism and the exclusivity of Christ?
How might the original audience's understanding of divine sovereignty differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
How does the salvation theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?

Related Resources

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Romans 12:2

Cross References

Analysis

Historical Context

Questions for Reflection

Related Resources

Topics