[:en]SCRIPTURE: ROMANS 14
“If we live, we live to the Lord; and if we die, we die to the Lord. so, whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord” (Romans 14:8)
“‘As surely as I live,’ says the Lord, ‘every knee will bow before me; every tongue will confess to God” (Romans 14:11)
“Therefore, let us stop passing judgment on one another. Instead, make up your mind not to put any stumbling block or obstacle in your brother’s way” (Romans 14:13)
“Let us therefore make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification” (Romans 14:19)
In this chapter, Paul dealt with the problem of questionable things and practices in Christian life. In every church, there are mature and immature believers. The Jewish Christians still wanted to observe Old Testament Laws which the Gentiles believers might use their Christian liberty into license to offend their Jewish believers.
How can we know whether our practices are in accordance to God’s principles?
- We must pray and study His Word. Let God enlighten us and give us the right conviction. The stronger Christians must not look down on the weaker ones. They must not pass judgment on each other. (vs. 1-5)
- Do everything to the Lord and for the Lord. We must live to please Him. Whether we live or die, it is to honor Him. (vs. 6-9)
- Be ready to stand before the judgment seat of God and give account of our works before Him. So, concentrate on what we do, and not what others do. (vs. 10-12)
- Do not cause others to stumble. Every believer should build up each other in love. Our Christians life should be with righteousness, peace and joy. Do not allow our practices to tear down another believer’s spiritual life. (vs. 13-21)
- Do everything by faith. Christian life is between God and us. Avoid anything that is doubtful. Do not engage in practices that are questioned by the world. Since Christians live by faith and faith comes by the Word of God, everything that we do should be backed up by the Word of God. (vs. 22-23)
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