Romans 12:17

Recompense. Or, “requite,” “pay back,” “repay.” For the principle here stated see on Matthew 5:38-48. Love returns good for evil and works to bring blessing, not destruction, to others (see Romans 12:14; 1 Corinthians 13:5, 6; 1 Thessalonians 5:15; 1 Peter 3:9).

Provide (Greek: pronoeō). “To take thought beforehand.”

Things honest (Greek: kala), “good things,” “noble things,” “right things.” Paul may be alluding to the Septuagint of Proverbs 3:4. In order to disarm opposition, the Christian should use much forethought so that his conduct, because of its transparent goodness and justice, will not only be blameless in the sight of God but may also seem right in the sight of all men. Followers of an unpopular cause who wish to persuade others of the truth and excellence of their message, must see to it that their behavior is consistently above reproach. They must never give occasion for suspicion or offense. The Christian who wishes his light to shine before men so that they may see his good works and glorify his Father who is in heaven (Matthew 5:16) will never engage in activities or enterprises of a doubtful character that might bring not only himself but also the whole Christian body into disrepute.

Paul was never afraid to incur opposition when duty and conscience so required. Nevertheless, he is here advising and exhorting Christians to exercise caution and foresight, so as not to offend unnecessarily and thereby stir up the hostility of others. This is the course dictated not only by love but also by good, practical sense. It is impossible to persuade and antagonize people at the same time.