Romans 12:8

he that exhorteth Here again a special division of Christian work is alluded to. The "exhortation" was, perhaps, a department of the speaking-duty of the Church less elaborate than the "teaching;" more entirely regarding practice; and allotted more with a view to physical qualifications, as of voice, &c.

on exhortation Lit. in the exhortation.

giveth distributeth; "imparteth" of his own possessions to the needy. Here, of course, no special office, but special opportunity, is in view. Every Christian would, more or less, be a giver; but the wealthier Christians would have peculiar responsibility in the matter.

with simplicity Lit. in simplicity. A derived meaning of the Gr. word, in connexion with giving, (and so here,) is liberality, openhandedness; the opposite to the doubled, closed, hand of the niggard. Same word as 2 Corinthians 8:2; 2 Corinthians 9:11; 2 Corinthians 9:13, (where lit. "liberality ofdistribution").

ruleth Lit. presideth; whether in the Church, or over any section of work, or over his own household.

with diligence Lit. in haste, i.e. with earnestness: with laborious and minute attention to duty.

he that sheweth mercy Here it is unlikely that a special class, or duty, is in view; except so far as some Christians, by means or opportunity, would be specially led to works of love for the sad and the destitute. Such workers of mercy were to give their work full effect by a spirit of cheerful, and cheering, kindness; as those who had known the kindness of God.