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. 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. – Romans 14:13-14
Don’t use your liberty to make another stumble. | WATCH ON YOUTUBE
Paul begins this chapter with a call to accept the one whose faith is weak, without quarrelling over disputable matters (v1). We are not to judge others about what they eat or don’t or minor things like that. In essence, Paul is saying, don’t major on the minors.
Instead, we are to be mindful not to put a stumbling block in the way of another, who may be weak. This does not take away the need and responsibility to admonish (Romans 15:14). But that admonishing or rebuking is to be over scriptural principles. In matters of preference, we can offer advice but not judge them.
We can be stumbling blocks by discouraging the other with our legalism and rules. On the other hand, we can also be a stumbling block by causing them to sin through an unwise use of liberty.
The matter of uncleanness in matters of food, sacred days and the like are to be left to an individual’s preferences. These mundane matters were not to come in the way of walking in brotherly love toward one another. Essentially, if Christ was willing to give up His life for the sake of that brother, you and I should be willing to give up our preferences.
Who needs to hear this freeing truth from you today?
Lord, help me never be a stumbling block to my brother, I pray.
Extended Reading – Romans 14-16
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