Daily Devotions
Romans
"God has received him..."
Text: Romans 14:3
STRONG OPINIONS
It is not wrong to have strong opinions. Some are more prone to hold strong opinions, while others are less inclined. Each person has his own special inclination!
TWO DANGERS TO BE AVOIDED
Having a strong opinion is one thing. Despising another person who does not share the same conviction is another thing entirely.
“Let not him who eats despise him who does not eat,
And let not him who does not eat judge him who eats;
for God has received him.”
Romans 14:3
1. “Let not him who eats despise him who does not eat”
a) The danger of despising a brother is very real.
b) The reason for despising a brother in this context is unjustified.
c) This danger must be highlighted for it is potentially harmful to the Church community.
d) This danger must be circumvented.
2. “Let not him who does not eat judge him who eats”
a) This time the danger is that of being judgmental.
b) Passing judgment is no better than despising another person.
c) This danger could cause rifts among members of the church.
d) A solution must be found.
3. “For God has received him”
a) The solution is offered.
b) The most important concern is how God views each person.
c) It is vital to remember that God has accepted and received the individual.
d) On this premise alone, acceptance of each other must be practiced.
God’s position is highlighted and applied to good effect!