Pride: a stumbling block

[MusicalProgrammer]

Ok, this was born out of a discussion in the marriage ministry that went off topic. The issue is in addressing "judgement" doled out by Christians towards both unbelievers as well as sometimes brothers and sisters in Christ. This is usually manifested in harsh criticism, bordering on outright condemnation, or even ludicrous name-calling, which is outright childish, in my opinion. I would like to call attention to Romans 14:13, in which the apostle Paul says:

"Let us not therefore judge one another any more: but judge this rather, that no man put a stumbling block or an occasion to fall in his brother's way." (KJV)

Now, it seems to me that this "judgement," often born out of pride, can pose a definitive stumbling block, particularly to new Christians. My wife still struggles with her faith due to issues earlier in her life involving hypocrisy.

The question is, in what way can we counter this false Gospel that has unfortunately warped the minds of many, turning them away from God and the Holy Spirit? I know from talking to many people that it is extremely hard to break down these barriers once they exist; for me, it is usually through living the life of a true believer manifested in good works that makes the most impact. Even still, it is difficult to convince them of the difference between the true Gospel: I know that we can plant the seed, and that only God can make it blossom, but nonetheless, is there a way we can make that parched soil more fertile?

Regarding judgement towards fellow brother and sisters in Christ, I point out that the same chapter in scriptures (Romans 14) focuses on the fact that every person needs to be fully persuaded in his or her own mind. Thus, while the weak brother may practice such things as abstaining from meat to uphold the faith within his mind, the strong brother who does eat meat, should not judge the weaker for his practices, but rather take him to himself with tenderness. (Paraphrases taken from Thomas Nelson's KJ Study Bible)

Thus, we should absolutely not judge each other based on how we go about our faith, unless it is contrary to scriptures. This is exactly how Paul addressed these matters in his epistles to the various churches. For me, a great example is regarding the role of sex in a marriage: I happen to have a great, fulfilling, and sometimes adventurous relationship with my wife. I do not judge or condemn another for only using it for procreation; if that's what helps them in their faith, so be it. I might feel that they're missing out, but again, to argue the point, or worse, belittle them, would raise a possible stumbling block, as it conflicts with their perception of their faith.

Any thoughts?

 

[ertsky]

very thought provoking MP.

i usually take the approach "i'll just leave them to it" (their carnal judgement i mean) you know you'll find them wandering around the same mountain 40 years later. But as you point out the damage they can do is unbelievable.

i've seen some amazing cases over the years (one case in particular where a minister really acted so insensitively that i concluded he was in fact unsaved)

well it's a mess, whats that verse "it is inevitable that offences come but woe unto him through whom they come, it would be better that a millstone were put around his neck and he was thrown into the sea than that he should offend one of these little ones who believes in me"

but in the meantime i guess we have to love and believe and hope as hard as we can and redeem the time because the days are evil.

well bro you've definately got me sober minded and thinking