I'm spending the month of April studying Romans 9-16 and it dawned on me today, I don't ever recall hearing anyone teach or preach on Romans 14. In fact, I've heard a lot of sermons and teachings on unity within the local church but not very many on unity within the entire body of Christ. That strikes me as odd.
Romans 14 is basically about opinions. It tells us not to "dispute over doubtful things". The phrase "doubtful things" literally means "reasonings" or "opinions". Paul talks about food but we really don't get that hung up on food any more. But let's look at another example. The Bible does not command Christians not go to movies. But, many are raised in various traditions where movie going just isn't done by good Christians. If you are personally convinced that going to movies is wrong, then for you it's wrong. If, however, you condemn, judge or argue with another brother or sister because they go to movies, you are violating the principle found in Romans 14.
If you grew up with brothers and sisters you know that parents have different rules for different kids. This is most often based on their age and maturity level. God allows for differences of opinion within the body, the true test is do we get along despite our different opinions. Now, Romans 14 also says that we are not to use our freedom to harm another believer. So, if you don't feel going to movies are appropriate for believers and I do, that means I don't try to argue with you to convince you to go to the theater with me and I probably shouldn't talk about going to the movies in front of you either.
There are countless black & white issues addressed in Scripture and none of us are free to violate those, regardless of what our opinion of them is. There is absolute truth. However, the Bible is for all cultures at all times so it's not just for 2006 and the issues we face. Therefore, it's not going to be specific for everything we experience. We need to use God-given discernment and our knowledge of Biblical principles. But remember, we will each, individually stand before the judgment seat of Christ and as Paul wrote in Romans 14:4 ... "To his own master he stands or falls. Indeed, he will be made to stand, for God is able to make him stand." Even in our opinions God's grace, mercy and love cover us and allow us to stand before Him. Praise Him for His wonderful love.
The Holy Spirit through Paul goes on to say "pursue the things which make for peace and the things which one may edify another." Focus on building bridges, not picking apart the other persons opinions. How about you? Which do you focus on with others? Do you seek ways to build them up or tear them down?
Romans 14 is basically about opinions. It tells us not to "dispute over doubtful things". The phrase "doubtful things" literally means "reasonings" or "opinions". Paul talks about food but we really don't get that hung up on food any more. But let's look at another example. The Bible does not command Christians not go to movies. But, many are raised in various traditions where movie going just isn't done by good Christians. If you are personally convinced that going to movies is wrong, then for you it's wrong. If, however, you condemn, judge or argue with another brother or sister because they go to movies, you are violating the principle found in Romans 14.
If you grew up with brothers and sisters you know that parents have different rules for different kids. This is most often based on their age and maturity level. God allows for differences of opinion within the body, the true test is do we get along despite our different opinions. Now, Romans 14 also says that we are not to use our freedom to harm another believer. So, if you don't feel going to movies are appropriate for believers and I do, that means I don't try to argue with you to convince you to go to the theater with me and I probably shouldn't talk about going to the movies in front of you either.
There are countless black & white issues addressed in Scripture and none of us are free to violate those, regardless of what our opinion of them is. There is absolute truth. However, the Bible is for all cultures at all times so it's not just for 2006 and the issues we face. Therefore, it's not going to be specific for everything we experience. We need to use God-given discernment and our knowledge of Biblical principles. But remember, we will each, individually stand before the judgment seat of Christ and as Paul wrote in Romans 14:4 ... "To his own master he stands or falls. Indeed, he will be made to stand, for God is able to make him stand." Even in our opinions God's grace, mercy and love cover us and allow us to stand before Him. Praise Him for His wonderful love.
The Holy Spirit through Paul goes on to say "pursue the things which make for peace and the things which one may edify another." Focus on building bridges, not picking apart the other persons opinions. How about you? Which do you focus on with others? Do you seek ways to build them up or tear them down?
Copyright © 2006 Greg Holl. All rights reserved.
