Following Jesus 124

Following Jesus: What kind of church are we? 

What does this “Law of Love” the Apostle Paul speaks of in Romans 14:13-23 look like in the context of the neutral items and circumstances of life and living? Let’s take a look.

To begin with, it means that believers are not to pass judgment on one another regarding these neutral matters. “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. 13. 

Secondly, each of us should be fully convinced regarding our convictions. “I know and am persuaded in the Lord Jesus that nothing is unclean in itself, but it is unclean for anyone who thinks it unclean.” Vs.14. 

Thirdly, we are not to grieve our brother or sister in Christ by our convictions. “For if your brother is grieved by what you eat, you are no longer walking in love. By what you eat, do not destroy the one for whom Christ died. So do not let what you regard as good be spoken of as evil. For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking but of righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. Whoever thus serves Christ is acceptable to God and approved by men.” Vs. 15-18. 

Fourthly, we are to pursue peaceful relationships with one another. 

“So then let us pursue what makes for peace and for mutual up-building.  Do not, for the sake of food, destroy the work of God. Everything is indeed clean, but it is wrong for anyone to make another stumble by what he eats.” Vs. 19-20. 

Next, we are not to do anything to cause a fellow believer to stumble. “It is good not to eat meat or drink wine or do anything that causes your brother to stumble. The faith that you have, keep between yourself and God. Blessed is the one who has no reason to pass judgment on himself for what he approves.” Vs. 21-22. 

Finally, If you have doubts, don’t! “But whoever has doubts is condemned if he eats, because the eating is not from faith. For whatever does not proceed from faith is sin.” Vs. 23. 

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