What do Christians do when they have conscientious differences What do Christians do when they have conscientious differences? What would love cause them to do?
Hallmarks of the Transformed Life Loving Our Brethren When We Differ
Paul’s Solution Accept each other, not resorting to doubtful disputes Allow each person to practice his own personal convictions Refrain from judging each other
Special Exhortations to the strong
Do not put a stumbling block before the weak. Therefore let us not judge one another anymore, but rather determine this— not to put an obstacle or a stumbling block in a brother’s way. (Romans 14:13)
Do not let what is for you a good thing be spoken of as evil (Rom
Let us pursue the things which make for peace and the building up of one another (Romans 14:19).
The faith which you have, have as your own conviction before God (Rom
Let each of us please his neighbor for his good, to his edification (Rom. 15:2).
What is Paul’s rationale for this exhortation?
The practice being surrendered is not something involving the “kingdom of God”. Do not destroy with your food him for whom Christ died (Rom. 14:15). for the kingdom of God is not eating and drinking, but righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit (Rom. 14:19).
Protect and preserve the principle of faith. But he who doubts is condemned if he eats, because his eating is not from faith; and whatever is not from faith is sin. (Rom. 14:23)
Emulate the forbearing love of Christ Now we who are strong ought to bear the weaknesses of those without strength and not just please ourselves. Let each of us please his neighbor for his good, to his edification. For even Christ did not please Himself; but as it is written, “The reproaches of those who reproached Thee fell upon Me.” (Romans 15:1-3)