“When Christians Disagree” Romans 14:1

We all know, relationships with other believers can sometimes be difficult. In this chapter, Paul, is telling us how to get along, to show grace and patience with a weaker brother (if he is the weaker brother). He is not saying that we should be indifferent to grievious sins, he is referring to issues of indifference. The weaker brother perhaps has a misunderstanding of what is forbidden or allowed: but he is still our brother and has been received by God, he is part of the family. Because God has received us by grace, none of us are perfect, none of us has all the answers. Instead of criticism we need to show love for one another. Paul asks the question: “who are you to judge another’s servant?” (Rom.14:4a). all of us are servants of the Most High God, and if He has accepted us what reason do we have to reject another for whom Christ died? If he is new in the faith and has certain scruples unto the Lord regarding foods and holy days the more reason to love him and be patient with him. Harmony among followers of Christ is vital for the health and strength of the church. Paul has already reminded us of the equality of Jew and Gentile believers, now we just need to live, work and worship the Lord together. Paul focuses on two issues, dietary laws and special days, there were sensitive issues among believers, but remember, love covers a multitude of sins. But as Christians, followers of Christ, we have something much more important than cultural differences and backgrounds; we are brothers and sisters, we have been washed by the blood of Jesus Christ! We have been purified, sanctified and glorified; we have the same Father. We are all the children of God, and there is no ranking or hierarchy, at the foot of the cross, we all some blind, lost and spiritually dead, in need of forgiveness. We come, crying, “Lord, have mercy on me a sinner.” (Lk.18:13b) and once forgiven we proclaim, “Jesus Christ is Lord to the glory of God the Father.” (Phil. 2:11b). Hallelujah! Blessings! Pastor Alfredo