Romans 14:1–5
Unity in the Christian faith thrives when we accept and respect each other’s differences of conscience.
We’ve got clear rules to follow in the Bible, like not stealing or committing adultery. But what about the stuff that isn’t so clear in the Bible? You know, those areas where we feel differently from our Christian peers?
Paul talks about about what Christians eat. But, take an real-world example today. Imagine one Christian thinks it’s totally fine to have a drink, while another thinks it’s a big no-no, even stepping into a place that serves alcohol.
They start arguing: “Don’t be weak,” says one. “Don’t be worldly,” says the other.
Paul steps in and warns not to fight over opinions of conscience.
He’s in Romans 14:1, saying, “Now accept the one who is weak in faith, but not to have quarrels over opinions.”
Although that person might differ from you on a point of conscience, you are to receive them on equal terms. You might be tempted to disown them as a brother or sister in Christ. Don’t do it.
You put your arm around them and you admit they are still a Christian. Your fellowship is not spoiled.
He also says, “The one who eats is not to regard with contempt the one who does not eat, and the one who does not eat is not to judge the one who eats, for God has accepted him. Who are you to judge the servant of another? To his own master he stands or falls; and he will stand, for the Lord is able to make him stand,” (Romans 14:3–4).
In simple words, Paul tells us not to judge each other on these things.
We might think someone doesn’t match up, but God doesn’t see it that way. So, be careful with your attitude, Paul says.
Then he talks about valuing certain days more than others. He’s says, “One person values one day over another, another values every day the same. Each person must be fully convinced in his own mind,” (Romans 14:5).
In these neutral areas, we should not be wondering all the time whether other Christians should be doing these things. Rather, make sure that you are full persuaded that what you are doing that is different keeps your conscience clear. Make sure that what you are doing in these areas is with a motive to please God.
So, four big rules here: receive others, don’t look down on them, don’t judge, and make sure to be fully persuaded in your own mind.
For a devotion on Romans 14:1–12 click here.
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