Chapter 14
Chapter Outline
The Jewish converts cautioned against (1–13)
judging, and Gentile believers against
despising one the other.
And the Gentiles exhorted to take heed of (14–23)
giving offence in their use of indifferent
things.Verses 1–6
Differences of opinion prevailed even among the immediate followers of Christ and their
disciples. Nor did St. Paul attempt to end them. Compelled assent to any doctrine, or conformity
to outward observances without being convinced, would be hypocritical and of no avail. Attempts
for producing absolute oneness of mind among Christians would be useless. Let not Christian
fellowship be disturbed with strifes of words. It will be good for us to ask ourselves, when tempted
to disdain and blame our brethren; Has not God owned them? and if he has, dare I disown them?
Let not the Christian who uses his liberty, despise his weak brother as ignorant and superstitious.
Let not the scrupulous believer find fault with his brother, for God accepted him, without regarding
the distinctions of meats. We usurp the place of God, when we take upon us thus to judge the
thoughts and intentions of others, which are out of our view. The case as to the observance of days
was much the same. Those who knew that all these things were done away by Christ's coming,
took no notice of the festivals of the Jews. But it is not enough that our consciences consent to what
we do; it is necessary that it be certified from the word of God. Take heed of acting against a
doubting conscience. We are all apt to make our own views the standard of truth, to deem things
certain which to others appear doubtful. Thus Christians often despise or condemn each other, about
doubtful matters of no moment. A thankful regard to God, the Author and Giver of all our mercies,
sanctifies and sweetens them.
Verses 7–13
Though some are weak, and others are strong, yet all must agree not to live to themselves. No
one who has given up his name to Christ, is allowedly a self-seeker; that is against true Christianity.
The business of our lives is not to please ourselves, but to please God. That is true Christianity,
which makes Christ all in all. Though Christians are of different strength, capacities, and practices
in lesser things, yet they are all the Lord's; all are looking and serving, and approving themselves
to Christ. He is Lord of those that are living, to rule them; of those that are dead, to revive them,
and raise them up. Christians should not judge or despise one another, because both the one and
the other must shortly give an account. A believing regard to the judgment of the great day, would
silence rash judgings. Let every man search his own heart and life; he that is strict in judging and
humbling himself, will not be apt to judge and despise his brother. We must take heed of saying