Do You Strive for Peace with Others?
Romans 14:13-23
Matthew Henry, the well-respected biblical commentator, is quoted as saying: “Peace is such a precious jewel that I would give anything for it but truth.” His comment reflects Paul’s instructions in Romans 14:13-23 – members of the body of Christ are to promote peace by loving others and avoiding any behavior that might discourage their relationship with God.
Ceasing criticism: In far too many churches, critical and complaining spirits are destroying the vitality and effectiveness of those churches. Just as great nations and empires often implode from within rather than be conquered by outside forces, a number of churches are dying because of what is going on inside the church more than what is happening in the culture surrounding them.
The Lord inspired Paul to see the potentially harmful impact that critical, judgmental actions would have on his church. As a result, Paul’s injunction to the church at Rome and to us today is clear: “Therefore, let us no longer criticize one another” (v. 13). Instead we are to be consumed with the love of Christ, a love that led Christ to sacrifice for us and one that will lead us to sacrifice for our brothers and sisters in Christ. As we live for Christ, we are called to desire what is best for others and to avoid any attitude or action that would cause another believer to stumble.
Pursuing priorities: Have you ever noticed how we tend to major on the minors, and subsequently minor on the majors, in church life? We can become so divided over the choice of carpet color or the style of music used in worship that we neglect to share Jesus with the lost or serve the needy in our communities.
Paul reminded the Roman church that the issues they thought were so important – what to eat or not to eat – paled in comparison to the greater pursuits of God’s kingdom: “righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit” (v. 17).
Helping others grow: Christians are called not only to focus on our personal relationship with God, but we are also to encourage others in their walk with the Lord. Avoiding criticism and seeking peace are to dominate our involvement in the body of Christ. As Colossians 3:15 states: “Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace.” In seeking peace, Paul stresses again in Romans 14:21 that Christ followers must avoid anything that would cause a brother to falter in his faith.
Keeping quiet: Paul ends chapter 14 by urging believers to keep our personal convictions between us and the Lord and to avoid imposing them on others. Increasing our devotion to the Lord and decreasing our criticism of others are important ingredients for peacemaking and prosperity in the body of Christ.
Owens– Lessons in the ETB series for the fall quarter are being written by Ken Owens, director of the collegiate ministry group for the South Carolina Baptist Convention.