Romans 15:2
Let every one of us please his neighbour for his good to edification.
Original Language Analysis
γάρ
G1063
γάρ
Strong's:
G1063
Word #:
2 of 11
properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)
τῷ
G3588
τῷ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
4 of 11
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
πλησίον
his neighbour
G4139
πλησίον
his neighbour
Strong's:
G4139
Word #:
5 of 11
(adverbially) close by; as noun, a neighbor, i.e., fellow (as man, countryman, christian or friend)
εἰς
for
G1519
εἰς
for
Strong's:
G1519
Word #:
7 of 11
to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases
τὸ
G3588
τὸ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
8 of 11
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
Cross References
Romans 14:19Let us therefore follow after the things which make for peace, and things wherewith one may edify another.1 Corinthians 10:24Let no man seek his own, but every man another's wealth.1 Corinthians 13:5Doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil;
Historical Context
The emphasis on oikodomē (edification) reflects Paul's consistent ecclesiology: the church is God's building project (1 Cor 14:12, 26; Eph 4:12, 29). In the Roman context, this meant Jewish and Gentile believers learning to value community unity over individual preferences—a radical vision in the stratified Greco-Roman world.
Questions for Reflection
- How do you distinguish between 'pleasing your neighbor' for godly edification versus ungodly people-pleasing?
- In what specific ways this week could you actively build up (oikodomē) a fellow believer rather than merely avoid tearing down?
- What practices in your Christian community might need reevaluation through the lens of edification rather than personal freedom?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
Let every one of us please his neighbour for his good to edification (ἕκαστος ἡμῶν τῷ πλησίον ἀρεσκέτω εἰς τὸ ἀγαθὸν πρὸς οἰκοδομήν, hekastos hēmōn tō plēsion aresketō eis to agathon pros oikodomēn)—Paul universalizes the obligation: hekastos (each one) admits no exceptions among believers. Aresketō (let him please) describes active pursuit of another's benefit, not passive non-offense. The dual qualifiers eis to agathon (unto the good) and pros oikodomēn (toward building up) prevent misunderstanding: neighbor-pleasing aims at genuine spiritual benefit, not sinful indulgence or people-pleasing flattery.
Oikodomēn (edification) is architectural language—building up God's temple, the church (1 Cor 3:9). Every Christian interaction should construct, not demolish. This principle transcends the immediate food/days controversy, establishing love as the hermeneutic for all disputable matters. The neighbor's 'good' is their spiritual maturity in Christ, not their subjective comfort.