Paul brands this as weak faith yet with the next pen stroke says that those who partake are not to look down on those who do not (v. 3). Maturity in faith is just seen in how you view a particular issue, it's how you view those who see it differently.

Certain days being considered holy versus those who see every day as alike. The surprising fact is that the New Testament never clearly spells this out for us. It is still a "disputable matter." Some will say that every day is sacred to the Lord, every day is a day we are to live in his service. Sometimes we sing, "This is the day that the Lord has made, we will rejoice and be glad in it."

We can sing that of each and every day, yet some view certain days, even this one (Sunday), as special to the Lord. Christmas, Good Friday, Easter are special days to some, and Paul says that each one should be fully convinced in his own mind (v. 5). The crux of the matter is this: How do you view those who see things a bit different?

III. Reactions within the pew

Don't pass judgment, look down upon, criticize, attack or demean those who see "disputable matters" in a different light.

Ever hear of a church embroiled in controversy over the introduction of a new style of worship, the introduction of a "contemporary" service? A disputable matter!

Ever hear of those within a church who were unforgiving of one another? Who refused to follow the directive of "forgiving each other, just as Christ God forgave you" (Eph. 4:32)? A church where love for one another was lacking despite Jesus telling us that all men would know we are His disciples if we loved one another (John 13:34, 35)?

How tragic when because of some disputable matters, we fail to live up to the indisputable teachings of our faith!

Earlier in this same letter, Paul has said that we are to, "Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another, for he who loves his fellow man has fulfilled the law" (Rom. 13:8). And that is something that's indisputable! (Dan Nicksich)

Proper 20 (A)

September 22, 2002

Lest We Complain

Exodus 16:2-15

Bill had not been feeling well so he made an appointment with his Doctor. After the examination, the doctor asked to speak to Bill's wife. He said something like this, "Mary, your husband has a rare, potentially terminal stress related disorder, and the cure will have to come from you. If Bill is to recover, you'll have to create for him a totally stress free environment.

You need to be a loving, encouraging, affectionate wife. You should send him off to work each day with a hug and kiss. While he's away, you should use your time to clean your house and make the atmosphere of your home as pleasant as you can. When Bill returns from work, greet him at the door with an affectionate kiss and have a hearty meal of his favorite dishes prepared. You must do everything possible to soothe and show affection to Bill. His life depends on it."

As they were driving home, Bill asked Mary what the doctor said to her in their lengthy meeting. Mary was quiet for a moment and then said: "He says you're going to die." Isn't it surprising how often God's people will complain and discourage rather than praise and encourage?