Devotion #3: It Is About Christ

The beginning of Romans chapter 14 lays out the sentiment that we are not to pass judgment on our fellow Christians for differences in convictions around minor details. Some of the examples it gives are those who abstain from certain foods and those who celebrate certain holidays or traditions. Today, we are focusing on the second half of the chapter that continues this idea. 

Romans 14:13-17 says, “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. I know and am persuaded in the Lord Jesus that nothing is unclean in itself, but it is unclean for anyone who thinks it unclean. For if your brother is grieved by what you eat, you are no longer walking in love. By what you eat, do not destroy the one for whom Christ died. So do not let what you regard as good be spoken of as evil. For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking but of righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.” 

What we learn from Romans chapter 14 is that Christians will have different consciences for certain things. One example I grew up with and had to deal with as a young adult and new Christian, was eating meat on Fridays during Lent. For those unfamiliar with Lent, it is a period of time leading up to Easter that certain denominations, including the Catholic church, celebrate. During this time, it is highly encouraged not to eat meat on Fridays. I grew up observing Lent and following this practice; however, as I got older, I no longer held to the same belief. It did not seem to benefit my walk with Christ spiritually. Therefore, I began eating meat on Fridays during Lent. However, I still had friends and family who I grew up with who held to this belief, so what do I do? 

I appreciate something Mike Winger pointed out when commentating on this passage. He explains that the burden seems to lie on the Christian with the “stronger conscience.” Verse 15 tells us, “For if your brother is grieved by what you eat, you are no longer walking in love. By what you eat, do not destroy the one for whom Christ died.” This, in combination with verse 19, “So then let us pursue what makes for peace and for mutual upbuilding,” tells us that the priority in these scenarios is the mutual upbuilding of the Church. These secondary issues or opinions should never be a reason for division in our fellowship. 

You may disagree with someone on a topic that seems insignificant to you. However, if that topic is something that helps their walk with Christ, it is not our place to judge that thought or to condemn our fellow brother or sister for their view, as long as it is not contrary to Scripture. Our job is to mutually build each other up. 

Our attitude should never be, “Get over it,” but rather, “How do I best glorify Christ to you?” It is not about us; it never is. It is about Christ. Let us always make that our focus when loving one another.