"Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God." - Romans 15:7
Romans 14-15 talk about how many early Christians had a weak understanding of the new covenant, continuing to observe old dietary restrictions and ceremonies on special days, and condemned those that didn't do the same. Others with a stronger understanding of Scripture saw no spiritual significance in those practices and looked down upon those that continued.
Paul explains to us that fellowship among Christians is not to be based on everyone's agreement on disputable matters. Christians do not agree on all things pertaining to Christian life, nor do they need to. Anything not clearly sinful according to Scripture should be guided by our conscience and personal conviction to do all in thanks and service to the Lord.
This requires us to be mindful of how we treat our fellow Christians when they do or say things we disagree with because we all share a common Christian heritage. I always try to smile politely and say a quiet prayer on the persons behalf.
"Let us therefore make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification." - Romans 14:19
"May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you a spirit of unity among yourselves as you follow Christ Jesus, so that with one heart and one mouth you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ." - Romans 15:5-6
The grace of the Lord Jesus be with you.
-- Alan
Posts
No comments:
Post a Comment