10/09/20 THE ONE ANOTHER’S IN THE NT #2 — Romans 12:10 (CSB) says, “Love ONE ANOTHER deeply as brothers and sisters. Take the lead in honoring ONE ANOTHER.” Two commands in a single verse.

(1)    Two special Greek words occur in this first sentence: “philostorgos,” which means basically to love one’s own children (the ONLY time this word occurs in Scripture); and “philadelphia,” literally means brotherly or fraternal love. All believers are part of an intimate, loving family. The Apostle John repeatedly declared that this is one of the main ways the world can identify us as believers (John 13:35; 1Jo.3:10,17-19).

(2)     “Honor” here is the Greek word “time” (pronounced tim-ay) which also means esteem, precious and money. “Take the lead” (also only once in the NT) is also translated “Outdo” (HCSB), “Give preference” (NASB), “Prefer” (KJV), and “Give preference” (NKJV). Believers must take the initiative to give honor and esteem to each other. God-sized tasks require the unique skills, abilities and gifts of each believer; we must learn to appreciate and depend on each other.