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Romans 14 thoughts
Romans 14 thoughts
I remember Robert Turner saying in a sermon that God has no grandchildren. Interesting observation: you are either a child of God or not! We are INDIVIDUALLY saved and added to the body of Christ, but then we must COLLECTIVELY function in a local congregation.
As individuals, we have different thoughts, understanding levels, and abilities. Yet, as believers, we congregate together according to the very instructions of the Lord. We meet together, worship together, and interact with each other. Such produces both joy and discord. In this chapter of Romans, Paul lays down some principles of how we are to conduct ourselves in such interactions as brethren. Here are some thoughts that I think are important to keep in mind as you read this chapter.
- NOT all beliefs are true.
- There ARE some beliefs that are universally true.
- Not everyone that understands things different from me is wrong.
- Not all things are to be tolerated.
- Not all differences are to be a matter of division.
- Not all beliefs and actions affect the whole group of believers.
- There are beliefs and actions that DO affect the whole group of believers.
- There is in all of us room to grow in our knowledge, conduct, and character.
As we navigate this road of life together, let us be mindful of God and each other. We will have our differences. We may even have differences on how to understand or apply the teaching of Romans 14! The very fact that Paul wrote these instructions indicates that living together is not always easy. Hence two verses in this section bear repeating:
"So then each of us will give an account of himself to God. Therefore let us not pass judgment on one another any longer, but rather decide never to put a stumbling block or hindrance in the way of a brother" (vs. 12-13).
"So then let us pursue what makes for peace and for mutual upbuilding" (vs. 19).
OK, those are the instructions. How are you doing? Are you a peacemaker?
Hugh DeLong
