Background of the Passage

Romans 14:13-15 is situated within a broader discussion (Romans 14:1-15:13) where the Apostle Paul addresses the complex issue of Christian liberty and how believers should interact with one another, particularly when they hold differing views on non-essential matters of faith.

The historical context is crucial to understanding this passage. The early Roman church was diverse, comprising both Jewish and Gentile Christians. These two groups often had conflicting practices and beliefs, especially regarding dietary laws and observance of special days. Jewish Christians, accustomed to strict dietary regulations, might have felt uncomfortable eating certain foods, while Gentile Christians didn't share these reservations.

Paul's goal in this section is to promote unity and mutual respect within the church, emphasizing love and consideration over personal freedom. He introduces the concept of "stronger" and "weaker" brothers, not as a hierarchy, but as a way to describe those with fewer scruples (stronger) and those with more (weaker).

Verse by Verse Exegesis

Verse 13

"Therefore let us stop passing judgment on one another. Instead, make up your mind not to put any stumbling block or obstacle in the way of a brother or sister."

The Greek word for "passing judgment" here is "κρίνωμεν" (krinōmen), which implies a critical or condemning attitude. Paul uses a play on words in the original Greek, transitioning from "Let us not judge" to "but judge this instead," emphasizing a shift in focus.

The terms "stumbling block" (πρόσκομμα - proskomma) and "obstacle" (σκάνδαλον - skandalon) both refer to anything that might cause another believer to falter in their faith. Paul is urging believers to be more concerned with not hindering others' spiritual growth than with asserting their own rights or opinions.

Verse 14

"I am convinced, being fully persuaded in the Lord Jesus, that nothing is unclean in itself. But if anyone regards something as unclean, then for that person it is unclean."

Paul begins by stating his personal conviction, grounded in his understanding of Christ's teachings. The phrase "being fully persuaded" (πέπεισμαι - pepeismai) indicates a settled assurance.

The word "unclean" (κοινὸν - koinon) can also be translated as "common" or "profane." This likely refers to the Jewish dietary laws, which designated certain foods as clean or unclean. Paul asserts that no food is inherently unclean, aligning with Jesus' teaching in Mark 7:14-19.

However, Paul recognizes the power of individual conscience. If someone believes something to be unclean, it becomes a matter of conscience for them, and acting against one's conscience is sin (Romans 14:23).

Verse 15

"If your brother or sister is distressed because of what you eat, you are no longer acting in love. Do not by your eating destroy someone for whom Christ died."

The word "distressed" (λυπεῖται - lupeitai) conveys the idea of being grieved or pained. Paul emphasizes that causing such distress violates the principle of love, which should be the governing factor in Christian relationships.

The term "destroy" (ἀπόλλυε - apollue) is a strong word often used in the context of eternal destruction. While eating certain foods won't cause someone to lose their salvation, Paul uses this forceful language to stress the seriousness of potentially damaging another's faith.

The phrase "for whom Christ died" serves as a powerful reminder of the value God places on each believer, urging readers to consider the worth of their brothers and sisters in Christ.

Reflection Questions

1. How can we discern when it's appropriate to exercise our Christian liberty and when we should limit it for the sake of others?
2. In what ways might our actions or attitudes become stumbling blocks for fellow believers, even unintentionally?
3. How does Paul's teaching on Christian liberty relate to other biblical principles, such as "all things are lawful, but not all things are beneficial" (1 Corinthians 10:23)?
4. How can we cultivate a community where both "stronger" and "weaker" believers feel respected and valued?
5. What role does personal conviction play in our faith, and how should we handle situations where our convictions differ from those of other believers?

Life Applications

1. Practice Self-Reflection: Regularly examine your attitudes and actions to ensure they're not causing others to stumble. Ask yourself, "Am I prioritizing my freedom over others' spiritual well-being?"
2. Cultivate Empathy: Before judging others for their convictions, seek to understand their background and perspective. This can foster unity and mutual respect within the church.
3. Prioritize Love: When faced with decisions about exercising your Christian liberty, let love be your guiding principle. Consider how your choices might impact others' faith.
4. Educate with Gentleness: If you believe someone's convictions are unnecessarily restrictive, approach the topic with gentleness and respect, always prioritizing the relationship over being "right."
5. Build a Inclusive Community: Work towards creating an environment in your church where people with different convictions can coexist harmoniously, focusing on the essential aspects of faith that unite you.

Closing Prayer

Loving Heavenly Father,

We come before You with grateful hearts, thankful for the freedom we have in Christ and for Your Word that guides us in using that freedom wisely. We acknowledge that You have called us to a higher standard of love and unity within the body of Christ.

Lord Jesus, help us to follow Your example of selfless love. Grant us the wisdom to discern when to exercise our liberty and when to limit it for the sake of our brothers and sisters. May we never become stumbling blocks to others, but instead be instruments of encouragement and growth.

Guide us in our interactions with fellow believers. Help us to be sensitive to the convictions of others, even when they differ from our own. Grant us the humility to put others before ourselves and the strength to resist passing judgment.

Father, we pray for unity in our churches. Help us to focus on the essentials of our faith that bind us together, rather than the non-essentials that may divide us. May our love for one another be a testament to the world of Your love for us.

We ask all this in the name of Jesus Christ, who died for us all, Amen.