By L. Joseph Rosas III
Paul
reminds those who are strong — who have definite convictions in areas of freedom
of conscience — that they must be willing, when necessary, to limit their liberty
according to the principle of love. (14: 12 — 15: 2) The stronger believer should
not put a “stumbling block” in the way of the weaker one. (14:13) Paul warns
against destroying with food, which would allow one’s good to become evil, and
thereby tear down the work of God. (14:15, 16, 20) If the stronger brother of
sister gives offense then he or she has contributed to causing a weaker brother
or sister to stumble. (14:21)
The
more mature believer is to model the kind of love that is willing to lay aside
one’s own rights for the greater good of the body of Christ. The goal is to
serve Christ, pursue peace and build up one another. (14:18, 19) Believers
should always seek to reflect the spirit of Christ by being servants to one
another. (15:3-13)
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Gary
Friesen suggests in his book, Decision Making & The Will of God,
that there is a difference between a weaker believer and a Pharisee. A weaker
believer is sincere but immature and has not yet had opportunity to fully develop
personal convictions in areas of legitimate differences of opinion. A Pharisee
is proud in his conviction that he is right and will take offense if anyone
disagrees with his position. While Paul encourages sensitivity to the weaker
believer, Jesus grew increasing impatient and openly rebuked the legalism of
the Pharisees.
Can
a Christian dance, drink, go to movies, read novels or __________? (Fill in
the blank with whatever is a “doubtful thing” in your fellowship.) Perhaps
the better question is should a Christian do such and such. Paul discussed the
same issues in 1 Corinthians 10. While it may be permissible, is it beneficial
and constructive? (10:23) Will our exercise of freedom (or limitation of freedom)
glorify God? (10:31)
In
a self-centered culture where it is popular to demand one’s rights, those who
would be followers of Christ are called to live by a higher standard. We are
to be peacemakers and, in the title of Brian McLaren’s latest book, to display
a generous orthodoxy.
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Sermon
brief provided by: Dr. L. Joseph Rosas III, Pastor, Crievewood
Baptist Church, Nashville, TN