The Example of Christ

Romans 15:1-4 (ESV)

The Example of Christ

15 We who are strong have an obligation to bear with the failings of the weak, and not to please ourselves. ² Let each of us please his neighbor for his good, to build him up. ³ For Christ did not please himself, but as it is written, “The reproaches of those who reproached you fell on me.” ⁴ For whatever was written in former days was written for our instruction, that through endurance and through the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope.

My intention was to write about verse 4 and talk about the importance of being in the Word on a daily basis in order that we would have the encouragement of the Scriptures to give us hope and help us endure through tough times. I did not realize the content of the preceding verses. When taken in context (as we should always try to do when handling Scripture), we see that the verses specifically deal with bearing with those in our lives who are weak...going through a time of weakness...less mature in the faith...struggling... Chapter 14 reveals to us that the issue at hand was a sensitivity about what foods were clean and not causing one another to stumble over something as simple as food. If it causes your brother or sister to stumble, then refrain from it. We are not to be intent on pleasing ourselves. Jesus wasn't out to please himself and neither are we to be. These things are written for our instruction... I wonder what other issues besides food could fit into this scenario. I suppose anything that serves our own interest, but causes someone weaker to stumble. We might have to think for a minute to think of how this relates to each of our lives. Try filling in the blanks I've left in chapter 14, verse 29. The words in scripture are "food" and "eats." What word applies where you are concerned? "Do not, for the sake of ________, destroy the work of God. Everything is indeed clean, but it is wrong for anyone to make another stumble by what he _______."

Romans 15:5-7 (NLT)

⁵ May God, who gives this patience and encouragement, help you live in complete harmony with each other, as is fitting for followers of Christ Jesus.⁶ Then all of you can join together with one voice, giving praise and glory to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.
⁷ Therefore, accept each other just as Christ has accepted you so that God will be given glory.