Romans - Chapter 14

Romans 14.1 Him that is weak in the faith receive ye, but not to doubtful disputations. Romans 14.2 For one believeth that he may eat all things: another, who is weak, eateth herbs. Romans 14.3 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. Romans 14.4 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. Romans 14.5 One man esteemeth one day above another: another esteemeth every day alike. Let every man be fully persuaded in his own mind. Romans 14.6 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. Romans 14.7 For none of us liveth to himself, and no man dieth to himself. Romans 14.8 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. Romans 14.9 For to this end Christ both died, and rose, and revived, that he might be Lord both of the dead and living. Romans 14.10 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. Romans 14.11 For it is written, As I live, saith the Lord, every knee shall bow to me, and every tongue shall confess to God. Romans 14.12 So then every one of us shall give account of himself to God. Romans 14.13 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. Romans 14.14 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. Romans 14.15 But if thy brother be grieved with thy meat, now walkest thou not charitably. Destroy not him with thy meat, for whom Christ died. Romans 14.16 Let not then your good be evil spoken of: Romans 14.17 For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost. Romans 14.18 For he that in these things serveth Christ is acceptable to God, and approved of men. Romans 14.19 Let us therefore follow after the things which make for peace, and things wherewith one may edify another. Romans 14.20 For meat destroy not the work of God. All things indeed are pure; but it is evil for that man who eateth with offence. Romans 14.21 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. Romans 14.22 Hast thou faith? have it to thyself before God. Happy is he that condemneth not himself in that thing which he alloweth. Romans 14.23 And he that doubteth is damned if he eat, because he eateth not of faith: for whatsoever is not of faith is sin.

Romans : Chapter 14

Christian Liberty and Brotherly Judgment according to Romans 14

Chapter 14 of the Epistle to the Romans addresses crucial themes concerning Christian liberty and judgment among brothers. In our journey of faith, knowing how to handle differences of opinion within the Church is essential. The Apostle Paul addresses practical issues such as diet and the observance of special days, while emphasizing the importance of individual conscience and mutual respect.

This passage invites us to promote unity in diversity, encouraging every believer not to judge one another but to seek mutual edification. To this end, let us consider five biblical passages that resonate deeply with the themes of this illuminating chapter.

1. 1 Corinthians 8:9

"But be careful lest the exercise of your freedom become a stumbling block for the weak." This verse reflects the principle Paul develops in Romans 14, emphasizing the importance of considering brothers and sisters in Christ who are more vulnerable in their faith.

2. Colossians 2:16

"Therefore, let no one judge you in what you eat or drink, or in respect of any holy day, or in observance of the new moon, or of the Sabbath." In this verse, Paul addresses similar issues to those in Romans 14, emphasizing Christian freedom in non-essential matters.

3. 1 Corinthians 10:31

"Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or do anything else, do all to the glory of God." This principle aptly summarizes Paul's argument in Romans 14, teaching us to approach controversial issues with a heart devoted to divine glory.

4. James 4:12

"There is only one Lawgiver and Judge, who is able to save and destroy. But who are you to judge your neighbor?" James recalls Paul's teaching in Romans 14:4, urging us not to judge other people's servants, for only God has the right to judge.

5. Mark 7:19

"Why does it not enter your heart, but your stomach, and then be eliminated? (By saying this, Jesus declared all foods clean.)" This statement by Jesus underlies the freedom Paul speaks of in Romans 14 regarding dietary restrictions.

In conclusion, it is crucial for us, as a community of believers, to cultivate a spirit of understanding and respect in the face of differences of opinion. May our commitment to Christ inspire us to grow together in love and unity.