Romans 15:2
ἕκαστος ἡμῶν τῷ πλησίον ἀρεσκέτω εἰς τὸ ἀγαθὸν πρὸς οἰκοδομήν·
Let each of us please his neighbor for the good, for building up.
Exhortation and Syntax of Selflessness
τῷ πλησίον ἀρεσκέτω – “Let him please the neighbor.” The dative τῷ πλησίον (“to the neighbor”) is the object of the verb ἀρεσκέτω, the third person singular present active imperative of ἀρέσκω (“to please”). This verb, especially in Pauline usage, connotes voluntarily accommodating others for their benefit, not flattery. In Classical Greek, ἀρέσκω can refer to currying favor—here, it is sanctified to mean loving consideration.
Purpose: The Good and the Edifying
εἰς τὸ ἀγαθὸν – “for the good.” The preposition εἰς + accusative of the article + adjective ἀγαθὸν turns the phrase into a goal: the intention behind pleasing the neighbor is not personal gain but their benefit. ἀγαθόν is moral good, not just benefit or utility.
πρὸς οἰκοδομήν – “toward building up.” A construction metaphor that Paul uses frequently (cf. 1 Cor. 14:12). οἰκοδομή is literally “building” but metaphorically refers to edification, strengthening of the community. The preposition πρὸς with accusative again stresses purpose or direction—toward edifying results.
Grammatical Summary Table
| Greek Element | Form | Translation | Function |
|---|---|---|---|
| ἕκαστος ἡμῶν | Distributive subject | Each of us | Individual responsibility |
| ἀρεσκέτω | 3rd person singular imperative | Let him please | Ethical exhortation |
| εἰς τὸ ἀγαθὸν | Purpose phrase | For the good | Moral aim |
| πρὸς οἰκοδομήν | Prepositional phrase | Toward edification | Goal of community strengthening |
Closing Insight
This compact verse encapsulates Paul’s ethic of love in communal life. The grammar is elegantly simple, but the theology is rich: the neighbor’s benefit—not self-interest—is the measure of our conduct. From Koine to Classical, this is language shaped not merely to command, but to transform.
