1 Him that is weak in the faith receive ye, [but] not to doubtful disputations.
2 For one believeth that he may eat all things: another, who is weak, eateth herbs.
3 Let not him that eateth despise him that eateth not; and let not him which eateth not judge him that eateth: for God hath received him.
4 Who art thou that judgest another man’s servant? to his own master he standeth or falleth. Yea, he shall be holden up: for God is able to make him stand.
5 One man esteemeth one day above another: another esteemeth every day [alike]. Let every man be fully persuaded in his own mind.
6 He that regardeth the day, regardeth [it] unto the Lord; and he that regardeth not the day, to the Lord he doth not regard [it]. He that eateth, eateth to the Lord, for he giveth God thanks; and he that eateth not, to the Lord he eateth not, and giveth God thanks.
7 For none of us liveth to himself, and no man dieth to himself.
8 For whether we live, we live unto the Lord; and whether we die, we die unto the Lord: whether we live therefore, or die, we are the Lord’s.
9 For to this end Christ both died, and rose, and revived, that he might be Lord both of the dead and living.
10 But why dost thou judge thy brother? or why dost thou set at nought thy brother? for we shall all stand before the judgment seat of Christ.
11 For it is written, [As] I live, saith the Lord, every knee shall bow to me, and every tongue shall confess to God.
12 So then every one of us shall give account of himself to God.
13 Let us not therefore judge one another any more: but judge this rather, that no man put a stumblingblock or an occasion to fall in [his] brother’s way.
14 I know, and am persuaded by the Lord Jesus, that [there is] nothing unclean of itself: but to him that esteemeth any thing to be unclean, to him [it is] unclean.
15 But if thy brother be grieved with [thy] meat, now walkest thou not charitably. Destroy not him with thy meat, for whom Christ died.
16 Let not then your good be evil spoken of:
17 For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost.
18 For he that in these things serveth Christ [is] acceptable to God, and approved of men.
19 Let us therefore follow after the things which make for peace, and things wherewith one may edify another.
20 For meat destroy not the work of God. All things indeed [are] pure; but [it is] evil for that man who eateth with offence.
21 [It is] good neither to eat flesh, nor to drink wine, nor [any thing] whereby thy brother stumbleth, or is offended, or is made weak.
22 Hast thou faith? have [it] to thyself before God. Happy [is] he that condemneth not himself in that thing which he alloweth.
23 And he that doubteth is damned if he eat, because [he eateth] not of faith: for whatsoever [is] not of faith is sin.
Overview of Romans Chapter 14
Romans Chapter 14 addresses the issues of judgment, acceptance, and the importance of unity among believers, particularly concerning matters of personal conviction and dietary practices. The Apostle Paul emphasizes the need for Christians to respect each other’s differences and to act in love and consideration for one another’s faith.
Key Themes
- Acceptance of Others: Paul urges believers to accept one another, regardless of differing opinions on non-essential matters.
- Judgment and Liberty: The chapter discusses the dangers of judging others based on personal convictions and the importance of individual liberty in Christ.
- Faith and Conscience: The relationship between faith and personal conscience is explored, emphasizing that each person should act according to their own convictions.
- Love and Edification: The necessity of love in all actions is highlighted, particularly in how believers should treat one another to build up the community.
Detailed Analysis
Acceptance of the Weaker Brother (Verses 1-4)
Paul begins by addressing the issue of accepting those who are “weak in faith.” He encourages the strong believers not to despise or judge those who have different practices, particularly regarding food and dietary laws. Paul emphasizes that God has accepted both groups and that believers should not elevate their own convictions over the acceptance of others.
Personal Convictions and Freedom (Verses 5-9)
In these verses, Paul discusses the importance of personal conviction regarding sacred days and dietary choices. He acknowledges that each person may have different views, but ultimately, each believer is accountable to God. Paul stresses that whether one eats or abstains, the primary focus should be on honoring the Lord.
Judgment and Accountability (Verses 10-12)
Paul warns against judging one another, reminding believers that they will all stand before God’s judgment seat. He emphasizes that each individual is responsible for their own actions and that they should not impose their convictions on others. This section reinforces the idea of personal accountability in the faith journey.
Love Over Legalism (Verses 13-23)
Paul shifts the focus to love and the impact of one’s actions on others. He encourages believers to avoid causing others to stumble in their faith through their own liberties. The principle of love should guide all actions, especially when it comes to exercising personal freedoms. Paul concludes this section by stating that whatever does not proceed from faith is sin, highlighting the importance of acting in accordance with one’s conscience.
Practical Applications
- Promote Unity: Believers should strive to maintain unity within the church by accepting and respecting differing opinions on non-essential matters.
- Exercise Love: Love should be the guiding principle in interactions with others, particularly when it comes to personal convictions and practices.
- Encourage Accountability: Each believer should be mindful of their own actions and how they may affect others, fostering an environment of mutual support and growth.
- Focus on Christ: The ultimate goal is to honor God in all actions, ensuring that personal freedoms do not lead to division or harm within the community.
Conclusion
Romans Chapter 14 serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of acceptance, love, and unity among believers. By focusing on personal accountability and the impact of one’s actions on others, Paul encourages a community that thrives on mutual respect and understanding, reflecting the love of Christ in all aspects of life.
