“Competing Convictions”

Monday, December 11, 2023

BIBLE READING: Romans 14

Conviction is a critical and practical trait to our faith. We must move from information, to personalization, to transformation by accepting and applying the truths of scripture. And so, as we draw conclusions from scripture we must also have greater determination to practice what we’ve learned.

The problem is we are not all the same. We have different ways of thinking and drawing conclusions. That was certainly true in the 1^st century. A significant difference that existed was over the eating of meats. Under the OT law it was forbidden to eat certain meats (for instance, Leviticus 11.1-47). But that was no longer the case under the law of Christ (see Romans 14.14, 20; 1 Timothy 4.3-5). However, there were still some who were uncomfortable with eating these meats. After all, it was wrong before and it was hard for them to believe that it could be ok now. So, there were two groups with different convictions – those who felt like it was wrong, and those who felt like it was not wrong. What were these disagreeing brethren to do? In this section Paul tells them 3 things:

1. Don’t judge those who draw a different conclusion (Romans 14.1, 13). Someone may not hold the same opinions as you do (14.1). That’s key here. They weren’t disagreeing over doctrine or facts, but opinions. He tells them not to judge or look down on one another just because they hold different opinions.
2. Don’t put a stumbling block in front of another (Romans 14.13, 15-17). In other words, don’t do something I know rubs my brother the wrong way. It is evident these believers had liberty to eat the meat. But because they knew it bothered their brethren Paul expects that to influence their behavior in a positive way. In other words, if I know someone has a strong opinion that differs from mine, don’t go rubbing it in their face. Be respectful of other’s choices and don’t cause them to stumble. My choices can cause others to be angry, jealous, or to feel bad about you because of choices you make. That is not ok in the body.
3. Choose the path of peace (Romans 14.20-22). On matters like these, there are times when it would be better to let some things go for the sake of my brother. “…if your brother is grieved by what you eat, you are no longer walking in love. By what you eat, do no destroy the one for whom Christ died” (Romans 14.15). If I know eating meats would cause my brother to be upset or question his beliefs, why not choose never to eat meat around that person? I’d rather make a conscious sacrifice so that I never cause a brother or sister to struggle.

Our differences don’t have to divide us. Even in the areas we disagree, we can all agree to love one another and put each other first—loving like Christ!

“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” (Romans 14.13)

This blog was adapted from thoughts written by Jordan Shouse.

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