In this portion of the epistle, we have an account of the unhappy strife and contention prevailing among the saints in the city of Rome. The contention hinged about the distinction of meats and days. The apostle Paul, with extreme care, lays down principles and directions for the purpose of settling all such disputes and preventing their occurrence. Let us give thought to his practical exhortations.
To mutual forbearance: (Verses 1-12)
First of all, the “weak” should be received. (Verse 1). “Receive him not to quarrel with him, and to argue about uncertain points that are in controversy, which will but confound him, and shake his faith.” (Henry). In verse 2 we have an illustrative example. “Faith,” in this connection, “does not have reference to faith in Christ, but faith in the righteousness of one’s own conduct. Faith in what they did. Here it means faith in the propriety of eating ‘all things.’ One man had faith (thinks it is right and proper) to eat all things. Another, who is weak (does not think it right and proper to eat all things) eats herbs.” (Grubbs).
Secondly, no man, whether weak or strong, should set at “nought” or “judge” his brother. (Verse 3). There are definite reasons for this prohibition, namely: (a) “God hath received him” –both the weak and the strong. Should a Christian be more exacting than God? (b) The Lord, not a fellow member of the church, is the master. (Verse 4). In verse 5 we have another illustrative example. (c) Each genuine Christian regardless of his scruples, desires first of all to please the Lord. (Verse 6). Unto Christ he lives; unto Christ he dies. These things are true because Christ is “Lord of both the dead and the living.” (Verses 7-9). (d) Unto the Lord, at last, each one must give an account. (Verses 10-12).
To mercy and peace, (Verses 13-23). Having taken us to the judgment throne of God, the apostle now tells us how we can help the brethren who are weak. This cannot be done by setting them at nought because of scruples, but by seeking the salvation of their souls.
Paul points out: 1. That we should consider whether our conduct may become a stumbling block to the weak brother. (Verses 13-15). “Is their freedom and offense to the weak? Then in the spirit of the Master, who gave his life to save the weak brother, they ought to surrender their freedom in deference to the scruples. Surely, if Jesus surrendered his life for the weak brother, dying to redeem him, we ought to be ready to surrender meat if by doing so we can promote our weak brother’s welfare.” (Edgar). 2. That the kingdom of God is not materialistic, but spiritual in nature. (Verses 16-19). 3. That it is wrong to use our freedom if, by so doing, we cause a brother to stumble. (Verses 20-21). 4. That doubt as to the path of duty should constrain us to abstain rather than to indulge until in our minds, we are fully persuaded. (Verses 22-23).
Onward Rejoicing,
John B. Daniels, Associate Minister
