Grace and peace to you in Christ Jesus our Lord,
Having completed the Chapter Memory Study in Romans, we move on into 1 Corinthians. For this study (and the following one in 2 Corinthians) I will most likely use the abbreviation 'Cor' for Corinthians. The spell check will be warned, but I want to warn you also.
The theme for 1 Corinthians is 'The Correction of the Church'. Paul spends considerable time addressing specific doctrinal and practical issues in the Corinthian church.
The memory verses for this chapter are
1 Corinthians 1:10, 23-24, 30-31 (ESV) 10I appeal to you, brothers, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be united in the same mind and the same judgment. 23 but we preach Christ crucified, a stumbling block to Jews and folly to Gentiles, 24 but to those who are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God. 30 He is the source of your life in Christ Jesus, whom God made our wisdom and our righteousness and sanctification and redemption. 31 Therefore, as it is written, "Let the one who boasts, boast in the Lord."
The outline theme is the Correct Centrality of Christ.
The first 9 verses of this letter contain the name of Christ nine times. Paul is clearly setting the stage for the centrality of Christ in all of his admonishions. But before he begins his teaching, he starts with encouragement; 'God is faithful' and has called you 'into the fellowship of his Son'. (v9).
Paul's appeal in verse 10 seems to be the key to this chapter; for them to 'agree' and have 'no divisions' but to be 'united in the same mind and the same judgment'. This is not just any mind or judgment, but the mind and judgment of Christ. His call is for the peace of Christ to rule in their hearts, since as members of one body they are called to peace (Col 3:15). The following verses shed light on some of the disruption. People were becoming too focused on individual people and not on Christ. His straight-forward (and slightly sarcastic) response reads 'Is Christ divided? Was Paul crucified for you? Were you baptized in the name of Paul?'(v13). Sometimes things get lost in the translation; the seriousness of this response did not.
Paul was not sent to baptize as his primary ministry (while he still baptized some) but to preach the gospel. Clearly he was trying to avoid the misguided attention the Corinthians were giving him and others. Paul would never want someone saying 'I was baptized by THE Paul' to be their primary focus above following and obeying Christ.
Verses 17-18 are powerful words concerning the message of the cross of Christ. The focus should never be on eloquence or cleverness lest 'the cross be emptied of its power'. This Word of the cross is foolishness 'for those who are perishing' but 'the power of God' to those who are saved.
Then more of the mystery of Christ in vv 19-21. The wisdom of the world is foolish, and God has used what is foolish in the eyes of the world to save those who believe.
"But we preach Christ crucified" defines the message. It is 'a stumbling block to Jews and folly to Gentiles, but to those who are called' it is 'the power of God and the wisdom of God'. (23-24)
And just to make sure that we don't get the idea that our salvation has anything to do with us, Paul writes vv25-31. God chose the foolish, the weak, and the low to shame the wise, the strong and the prominent so that 'no human being might boast in the presence of God'.
God is the source of our life in Christ Jesus, and God has made Him our wisdom, righteousness, sanctification, and redemption. So if you boast, boast in the Lord. (30-31).
How does this affect my worship?
Verse 31 quotes Jeremiah 9:24 which has always challenged my worship;
Jeremiah 9:24 (ESV)
but let him who boasts boast in this, that he understands and knows me, that I am the Lord who practices steadfast love, justice, and righteousness in the earth. For in these things I delight, declares the Lord."
Anytime you read about the Lord delighting in something, pay attention. Our offering of worship must be acceptable and pleasing to God. Things He says that delight Him fall into that category. In this case, that we understand Him and know Him. In the case of 1 Cor 1, that we know and understand that He is our wisdom, righteousness, sanctification and redemption. That's enough to fill our praises all the days of our lives.
How does this affect my discipleship?
I was challenged by vv11-16. Even in the body of Christ we fall into the trap of 'name-dropping'; "I studied with A.B. Smartypants" or "I was discipled by K.M. Spiritualgiant". Finding prominence or importance in anything or anyone besides Christ is sin. While God has gifted individuals to teach and train us, the glory belongs to God. Same for when we turn around to teach and train others; all the glory to God. Again, He is our wisdom, righteousness, sanctification and redemption; the source, means, strength and theme of our discipleship.
May you boast in the Lord and Him alone,
Ethan
Wednesday, August 30, 2006
Thursday, August 24, 2006
Romans Reflections
Grace and peace to you,
As I have come to the end of this experiment, I find that there are many things to reflect upon. The study itself has grown me and challenged me from start to finish. The format seems to resonate with my learning style and need for deadlines. The commitment to memory passages directly tied to the study has been invaluable and essential. It takes time, effort, brain-power, and persistence...but He has blessed my heart with His Word at every turn and in so many ways. The trick will be sustaining these passages as I move on in the study. With previous memory verses, the longer I keep them fresh in my mind, the more readily they seem to come back.
A lot has changed since my first entry. The main purpose has remained; to study God's Word chapter by chapter and memorize key passages from each chapter in order to begin a framework for hiding God's Word in my heart. The memory passages range from 3-7 verses (in spite of my desire to keep it to 2-3) and I have had to go back and insert more in order to make the picture of each chapter more complete.
The outline is as follows:
The passage that best summarizes the main theme of Romans, and the Gospel for that matter, is Romans 3:20-24 (the memory passage for chapter 3)
Romans 3:20-24 (ESV)
20 For by works of the law no human being will be justified in his sight, since through the law comes knowledge of sin. 21 But now the righteousness of God has been manifested apart from the law, although the Law and the Prophets bear witness to it— 22 the righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ for all who believe. For there is no distinction: 23 for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, 24 and are justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus,
The Righteousness of God can not be obtained through the law, but only through faith in Jesus Christ. No human has it, every human needs it to have eternal life in heaven, and only through the gracious free gift of Christ can we get it.
So if the main theme of Romans is the Righteousness of God, the 'obedience of faith' would be a sub-theme. This phrase appears in Romans 1:5 and 16:26; the beginning and the end. Paul's calling as an apostle is linked to 'bringing about the obedience of faith' (1:5). But in 16:26, 'to bring about the obedience of faith' is the 'command of the eternal God'.
Clearly, the willful obedience of the believer to the eternal God who justifies us by His grace through faith is our response to His righteousness.
May you walk in the obedience of faith to our righteous, Eternal God,
Ethan
As I have come to the end of this experiment, I find that there are many things to reflect upon. The study itself has grown me and challenged me from start to finish. The format seems to resonate with my learning style and need for deadlines. The commitment to memory passages directly tied to the study has been invaluable and essential. It takes time, effort, brain-power, and persistence...but He has blessed my heart with His Word at every turn and in so many ways. The trick will be sustaining these passages as I move on in the study. With previous memory verses, the longer I keep them fresh in my mind, the more readily they seem to come back.
A lot has changed since my first entry. The main purpose has remained; to study God's Word chapter by chapter and memorize key passages from each chapter in order to begin a framework for hiding God's Word in my heart. The memory passages range from 3-7 verses (in spite of my desire to keep it to 2-3) and I have had to go back and insert more in order to make the picture of each chapter more complete.
The outline is as follows:
Romans
“The Righteousness of God”
1. Righteousness in the Gospel
2. Righteous Judgment of God
3. Righteous Justification by Grace
4. Righteous Faith of Abraham
5. Righteousness Free Gift of Grace
6. Righteousness Sets us Free
7. Righteous Obedience in the Spirit
8. Righteous Walk in the Spirit
9. Righteous Sovereignty of God
10. Righteous Word of Faith
11. Righteous Restoration of
12. Righteous Sacrifice of Life and Love
13. Righteous Submission
14. Righteous
15. Righteous Ministry of Hope
16. Righteous Obedience of Faith
The passage that best summarizes the main theme of Romans, and the Gospel for that matter, is Romans 3:20-24 (the memory passage for chapter 3)
Romans 3:20-24 (ESV)
20 For by works of the law no human being will be justified in his sight, since through the law comes knowledge of sin. 21 But now the righteousness of God has been manifested apart from the law, although the Law and the Prophets bear witness to it— 22 the righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ for all who believe. For there is no distinction: 23 for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, 24 and are justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus,
The Righteousness of God can not be obtained through the law, but only through faith in Jesus Christ. No human has it, every human needs it to have eternal life in heaven, and only through the gracious free gift of Christ can we get it.
So if the main theme of Romans is the Righteousness of God, the 'obedience of faith' would be a sub-theme. This phrase appears in Romans 1:5 and 16:26; the beginning and the end. Paul's calling as an apostle is linked to 'bringing about the obedience of faith' (1:5). But in 16:26, 'to bring about the obedience of faith' is the 'command of the eternal God'.
Clearly, the willful obedience of the believer to the eternal God who justifies us by His grace through faith is our response to His righteousness.
May you walk in the obedience of faith to our righteous, Eternal God,
Ethan
Monday, August 21, 2006
Romans 16
Grace and peace to you all,
Well, we have arrived at the end of Romans. I trust that everything from 1:1 to 16:27 has been as challenging to you as it has been to me. My personal walk, my family, and my ministry have been affected deeply by my study in Romans. Thank the Lord for His Word and It's power to change lives.
The memory passage for Romans 16 is:
Romans 16:17-18, 25-27 (ESV)
17 I appeal to you, brothers, to watch out for those who cause divisions and create obstacles contrary to the doctrine that you have been taught; avoid them. 18 For such persons do not serve our Lord Christ, but their own appetites, and by smooth talk and flattery they deceive the hearts of the naive.
25 Now to him who is able to strengthen you according to my gospel and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery that was kept secret for long ages 26 but has now been disclosed and through the prophetic writings has been made known to all nations, according to the command of the eternal God, to bring about the obedience of faith— 27 to the only wise God be glory forevermore through Jesus Christ! Amen.
The outline theme for Romans 16 is Righteous Obedience of Faith.
This chapter contains the longest list of personal greetings in any of Paul's writings. He addresses 26 people by name and refers to others. After reading these 16 verses, I can't help but see the deep, personal connections Paul had with the church in Rome. He was not just an itinerate evangelist passing through town, but a true pastor at heart. Although Paul's ministry was not, could not be, the long-term shepherding of an individual flock, his heart still beat with prayers for those he loved in all the churches he visited.
Priscila and Aquila are the only ones mentioned in this list that are certainly named elsewhere in the New Testament. This couple clearly had a profound impact on the life andministryy of Paul. The first person mentioned, Pheobe, is described as a sister, servant, and patron. In some future study I would like to explore the ministry of Pheobe and her example for all women.
After the list of personal greetings, Paul couldn't resist just one more teaching point. 17-20 contain a last warning and encouragement. Watch out for trouble-makers who 'cause divisions and create obstacles contrary to the doctrine you have been taught'. These people are self-seeking and deceive the weak-hearted. He acknowledges their obedience and encourages them to continue to be wise in good, innocent in evil, and steadfast in the certain victory of God over Satan.
Paul then sends greeting to the believers in Rome from those who are with him in Corinth. I'm struck by the way he describes Timothy as 'my fellow worker'. Not 'my protege' or 'student' or 'employee', but simply 'my fellow worker'. A shining example of 'not thinking more highly of yourself than you ought' (12:3).
The Romans benediction is filled with all the doctrine and mystery of the letter. God is able to strengthen you by the gospel of Jesus Christ, according to the mystery that is now revealed and according to the verycommandd of God 'to bring about the obedience of faith'. If the righteousness of God is the main theme of Romans, the obedience of faith is the sub-theme.
How does this affect my worship?
I can only imagine the worship that took place in these fellowships. The church appears so interlocked and connected. While they were not without controversy or trouble-makers, they seemed united with one voice in worship (15:6). I wonder what the worship in a body of believers who are united by more than just convenience or proximity looks like? A true unified voice in accord with Christ Jesus proclaiming His worthiness, praising His righteous name, and worshiping in the beauty of His holiness. Come quickly, Lord Jesus.
How does this affect my discipleship?
How do we attain connectedness and unity? How do we 'let the peace of Christ rule in our hearts, since as members of one body we are called to peace'? (Col 3:15) I believe that if the church is filled with a network of discipleship-minded people who have eyes for disciple-making, are equipped with tools for disciple-making, and are actively seeking disciple-making we can get closer. But it starts with obedience to His command and adherence to His Gospel. And we can rest in knowing that He will be with us always, 'to the end of the age'.
To the only wise God be glory forevermore in Christ Jesus, Amen.
Ethan
Well, we have arrived at the end of Romans. I trust that everything from 1:1 to 16:27 has been as challenging to you as it has been to me. My personal walk, my family, and my ministry have been affected deeply by my study in Romans. Thank the Lord for His Word and It's power to change lives.
The memory passage for Romans 16 is:
Romans 16:17-18, 25-27 (ESV)
17 I appeal to you, brothers, to watch out for those who cause divisions and create obstacles contrary to the doctrine that you have been taught; avoid them. 18 For such persons do not serve our Lord Christ, but their own appetites, and by smooth talk and flattery they deceive the hearts of the naive.
25 Now to him who is able to strengthen you according to my gospel and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery that was kept secret for long ages 26 but has now been disclosed and through the prophetic writings has been made known to all nations, according to the command of the eternal God, to bring about the obedience of faith— 27 to the only wise God be glory forevermore through Jesus Christ! Amen.
The outline theme for Romans 16 is Righteous Obedience of Faith.
This chapter contains the longest list of personal greetings in any of Paul's writings. He addresses 26 people by name and refers to others. After reading these 16 verses, I can't help but see the deep, personal connections Paul had with the church in Rome. He was not just an itinerate evangelist passing through town, but a true pastor at heart. Although Paul's ministry was not, could not be, the long-term shepherding of an individual flock, his heart still beat with prayers for those he loved in all the churches he visited.
Priscila and Aquila are the only ones mentioned in this list that are certainly named elsewhere in the New Testament. This couple clearly had a profound impact on the life andministryy of Paul. The first person mentioned, Pheobe, is described as a sister, servant, and patron. In some future study I would like to explore the ministry of Pheobe and her example for all women.
After the list of personal greetings, Paul couldn't resist just one more teaching point. 17-20 contain a last warning and encouragement. Watch out for trouble-makers who 'cause divisions and create obstacles contrary to the doctrine you have been taught'. These people are self-seeking and deceive the weak-hearted. He acknowledges their obedience and encourages them to continue to be wise in good, innocent in evil, and steadfast in the certain victory of God over Satan.
Paul then sends greeting to the believers in Rome from those who are with him in Corinth. I'm struck by the way he describes Timothy as 'my fellow worker'. Not 'my protege' or 'student' or 'employee', but simply 'my fellow worker'. A shining example of 'not thinking more highly of yourself than you ought' (12:3).
The Romans benediction is filled with all the doctrine and mystery of the letter. God is able to strengthen you by the gospel of Jesus Christ, according to the mystery that is now revealed and according to the verycommandd of God 'to bring about the obedience of faith'. If the righteousness of God is the main theme of Romans, the obedience of faith is the sub-theme.
How does this affect my worship?
I can only imagine the worship that took place in these fellowships. The church appears so interlocked and connected. While they were not without controversy or trouble-makers, they seemed united with one voice in worship (15:6). I wonder what the worship in a body of believers who are united by more than just convenience or proximity looks like? A true unified voice in accord with Christ Jesus proclaiming His worthiness, praising His righteous name, and worshiping in the beauty of His holiness. Come quickly, Lord Jesus.
How does this affect my discipleship?
How do we attain connectedness and unity? How do we 'let the peace of Christ rule in our hearts, since as members of one body we are called to peace'? (Col 3:15) I believe that if the church is filled with a network of discipleship-minded people who have eyes for disciple-making, are equipped with tools for disciple-making, and are actively seeking disciple-making we can get closer. But it starts with obedience to His command and adherence to His Gospel. And we can rest in knowing that He will be with us always, 'to the end of the age'.
To the only wise God be glory forevermore in Christ Jesus, Amen.
Ethan
Tuesday, August 15, 2006
Romans 15
Grace and peace,
As we approach the end of Romans we see that Paul includes many more personal details and greetings. Chapter 15 contains some final words of instruction and warning along with his travel plans.
The memory passage for chapter 15 is;
Romans 15:4-6, 13 (ESV)
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. 5 May the God of endurance and encouragement grant you to live in such harmony with one another, in accord with Christ Jesus, 6 that together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. 13 May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.
The outline theme is Righteous Ministry of Hope
This chapter begins by continuing the theme of chapter 14; care for and bear with the weak unselfishly as Christ loved us unselfishly. The memory passage outlines the ministry of hope. First, the Scriptures were written for our instruction, for our endurance, and for our encouragement. And through the Scripture we can have the assurance of hope. Then Paul follows with one of his blessings; that the God of the Scriptures would help us live in harmony with Christ Jesus and each other. The result will be unified worship of God.
Therefore (always a clue that something is coming) 'welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God'. We have studied how Christ 'welcomed' us while we were weak and ungoldly (5:6), sinners (5:8), and enemies (5:10). Not only did He welcome us, but even though we were completely unworthy, He DIED for us. We are to follow His example and welcome each other in His name.
And for all of us non-Jews, vv8-12 summarize the great mercy and grace of God towards us so that we might have hope. Which leads to the second half of the memory passage; that through the God of all joy and peace we may have hope by the power of Holy Spirit.
Paul encourages and instructs the Roman church with a confirmation of their growth and godliness followed by a reminder that he sometimes writes boldly to address or correct issues in the church. But his goal is always the same; to minister to the Gentiles so that their offering might be acceptable and sanctified by the Holy Spirit. The only boast Paul has about his ministry is that which Christ has accomplished in word and deed and through the power of Holy Spirit. Echoing 1 Corinthians 1:31; "let him who boasts boast in...the Lord"
Paul concludes this chapter with a mission statement and some travel plans. He states his commitment to take the Gospel to where it has not been preached and tells the church that he hopes to spend time with them before he goes to Spain.
Paul's appeal for prayer in v30 is very Trinitarian; pray by Jesus and the love of the Spirit to God. He continues the theme of 11:36; "from Him, through Him, and to Him are all things". The blessing peace at the end of this chapter continues the theme of the chapter (from v13) that they be filled with all joy and peace in believing so that they may abound in hope.
How does this affect my worship? Verses 5-6 contain a few phrases that have musical roots; 'live in harmony', 'in accord with Christ Jesus', 'with one voice glorify God'. If there is to be unity and harmony in the church, it must start with the grace of God and the Word of God. God's Word is for our instruction, endurance and encouragement, and the God of the Scriptures can grant us to live in harmony, one accord, and unified worship. Writing to 'God's chosen people' in Colossians 3, Paul emphasizes the centrality of the Word of God in instruction and worship. Colossians 3:16 (ESV) Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God.
How does this affect my discipleship? Discipleship and 'pleasing ourselves' do not go hand in hand. Christ's example was not pleasing Himself, but taking our sins on Himself and dying for us. Part of discipleship is exactly what is written in vv1-3; bear with the weak, do not please ourselves, build up your neighbor, follow the example of Christ. But it combines with the very purpose of God's Word; to instruct us (toward hope), give us endurance (toward hope), and encourage us (toward hope). Our ministry of discipleship should always be underpinned with this ministry of hope in Christ.
May the God of peace be with you all,
Ethan
As we approach the end of Romans we see that Paul includes many more personal details and greetings. Chapter 15 contains some final words of instruction and warning along with his travel plans.
The memory passage for chapter 15 is;
Romans 15:4-6, 13 (ESV)
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. 5 May the God of endurance and encouragement grant you to live in such harmony with one another, in accord with Christ Jesus, 6 that together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. 13 May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.
The outline theme is Righteous Ministry of Hope
This chapter begins by continuing the theme of chapter 14; care for and bear with the weak unselfishly as Christ loved us unselfishly. The memory passage outlines the ministry of hope. First, the Scriptures were written for our instruction, for our endurance, and for our encouragement. And through the Scripture we can have the assurance of hope. Then Paul follows with one of his blessings; that the God of the Scriptures would help us live in harmony with Christ Jesus and each other. The result will be unified worship of God.
Therefore (always a clue that something is coming) 'welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God'. We have studied how Christ 'welcomed' us while we were weak and ungoldly (5:6), sinners (5:8), and enemies (5:10). Not only did He welcome us, but even though we were completely unworthy, He DIED for us. We are to follow His example and welcome each other in His name.
And for all of us non-Jews, vv8-12 summarize the great mercy and grace of God towards us so that we might have hope. Which leads to the second half of the memory passage; that through the God of all joy and peace we may have hope by the power of Holy Spirit.
Paul encourages and instructs the Roman church with a confirmation of their growth and godliness followed by a reminder that he sometimes writes boldly to address or correct issues in the church. But his goal is always the same; to minister to the Gentiles so that their offering might be acceptable and sanctified by the Holy Spirit. The only boast Paul has about his ministry is that which Christ has accomplished in word and deed and through the power of Holy Spirit. Echoing 1 Corinthians 1:31; "let him who boasts boast in...the Lord"
Paul concludes this chapter with a mission statement and some travel plans. He states his commitment to take the Gospel to where it has not been preached and tells the church that he hopes to spend time with them before he goes to Spain.
Paul's appeal for prayer in v30 is very Trinitarian; pray by Jesus and the love of the Spirit to God. He continues the theme of 11:36; "from Him, through Him, and to Him are all things". The blessing peace at the end of this chapter continues the theme of the chapter (from v13) that they be filled with all joy and peace in believing so that they may abound in hope.
How does this affect my worship? Verses 5-6 contain a few phrases that have musical roots; 'live in harmony', 'in accord with Christ Jesus', 'with one voice glorify God'. If there is to be unity and harmony in the church, it must start with the grace of God and the Word of God. God's Word is for our instruction, endurance and encouragement, and the God of the Scriptures can grant us to live in harmony, one accord, and unified worship. Writing to 'God's chosen people' in Colossians 3, Paul emphasizes the centrality of the Word of God in instruction and worship. Colossians 3:16 (ESV) Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God.
How does this affect my discipleship? Discipleship and 'pleasing ourselves' do not go hand in hand. Christ's example was not pleasing Himself, but taking our sins on Himself and dying for us. Part of discipleship is exactly what is written in vv1-3; bear with the weak, do not please ourselves, build up your neighbor, follow the example of Christ. But it combines with the very purpose of God's Word; to instruct us (toward hope), give us endurance (toward hope), and encourage us (toward hope). Our ministry of discipleship should always be underpinned with this ministry of hope in Christ.
May the God of peace be with you all,
Ethan
Thursday, August 03, 2006
Romans 14
Grace and peace,
As we get into Romans 14, the memory passages are:
Romans 14:1-2, 6,17,20 (ESV)
1 As for the one who is weak in faith, welcome him, but not to quarrel over opinions. 2 One person believes he may eat anything, while the weak person eats only vegetables.
6The one who observes the day, observes it in honor of the Lord. The one who eats, eats in honor of the Lord, since he gives thanks to God, while the one who abstains, abstains in honor of the Lord and gives thanks to God. 17For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking but of righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. 20Do not, for the sake of food, destroy the work of God. Everything is indeed clean, but it is wrong for anyone to make another stumble by what he eats.
The outline theme is Righteous Liberty in Christ.
In chapter 14, Paul tackles issues concerning 'one who is weak in faith'. Basically, a believer and follower of Christ who holds themselves to dietary or ceremonial rules. These could be carried over from Judaism or other previous convictions, and are not 'unclean in themselves' (14).
Paul begins with a warning, 'Welcome those who are weak in faith, but not to argue with them about their scruples; to try to make them more like you'. Within the body there may be people who only 'eat vegetables' (2) because of some conviction. We don't know why Paul chose vegetables in this case, but the point is that a Christ-follower feels compelled to abstain from meat and those who are 'free' to eat anything must not judge or look down upon them. The reason is just; 'God has welcomed him' (3). Neither party (the weak in faith or the strong) are allowed to judge or despise the other. For "who are you to pass judgment" on a fellow servant of the Lord? (4). Verse 5 changes from food to observance of special days. Some people put more importance on certain days than others do.
Verse 6 is key; if you observe a day, honor the Lord; if you eat, honor the Lord and give thanks; if you abstain, honor the Lord and give thanks. Whatever you do, always, honor the Lord.
Verses 7-11 remind us of our standing in Christ. None of us live or die to ourselves; we live and die to the One who lived and died for us. And it is not our place to pass judgment on each other in the body. For we will all stand before God, at the judgment seat, and be judged for what we have done in Him. We will each 'give an account of [ourselves] to God'.
The alternative to judgment and condescension in the body is this; 'walk in love' (15). Don't pass judgment, decide not to make a brother stumble by what he thinks is unclean, and do not let eating grieve your brother. He end this passage with a troubling, challenging statement; "By what you eat, do not destroy the one for whom Christ died' (15). "Destroy" here is the same word used in 1 Corinthians 8:10-12. Its definition contains harsh language of eternal destruction and consequence. This is difficult to understand fully, but the message is clear; your actions affect people, BE CAREFUL!!!
Verse 17 focuses us back on the main issue; "For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking but of righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit".
If you serve Christ, you are acceptable to God and approved by men (18). In Christ, we should pursue peace and mutual edification. In our obedience to God we should not hinder or destroy His work by imposing our conviction about eating or abstaining on others in the body. 'Destroy' in verse 20 is more the idea of dissolving or subverting. Peace and unity are the calling of the body of Christ. Legalistic impositions challenge the work of unity.
The conditions are that everything must be done to honor Him, and done in obedience to Him. For one must have full faith in what he eats or abstains from. No rationalization of man stands; it must be under conviction from God.
How does this affect my worship?
Verses 6 is a timely reminder of 'whole-life' worship of God. While acts of worship must be intentional and purposed, our whole life is to honor Him. Whether we observe a special day or not, whether we hold to dietary scruples or not, we are always to honor the Lord and give Him thanks.
How does this affect my discipleship?
I was convicted in this study by verses 10 and 12. I don't think enough about standing before God at the judgment seat. This is different than the judgment of my soul between eternal blessedness and punishment (for that is secure, as I am 'hidden with Christ in God' Col 3:3). This is the seat that all Christ-followers will stand before and be judged for our service and obedience. We will 'give an account' of ourselves before God. While my commitment to follow Him and make disciples is out of love and obedience, I must never forget that I will give an account for my faithfulness and how I walk. We must always strive to honor Him, obey Him, and worship Him fully...to the end of the age.
May you walk in love toward your brothers and sisters,
Ethan
As we get into Romans 14, the memory passages are:
Romans 14:1-2, 6,17,20 (ESV)
1 As for the one who is weak in faith, welcome him, but not to quarrel over opinions. 2 One person believes he may eat anything, while the weak person eats only vegetables.
6The one who observes the day, observes it in honor of the Lord. The one who eats, eats in honor of the Lord, since he gives thanks to God, while the one who abstains, abstains in honor of the Lord and gives thanks to God. 17For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking but of righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. 20Do not, for the sake of food, destroy the work of God. Everything is indeed clean, but it is wrong for anyone to make another stumble by what he eats.
The outline theme is Righteous Liberty in Christ.
In chapter 14, Paul tackles issues concerning 'one who is weak in faith'. Basically, a believer and follower of Christ who holds themselves to dietary or ceremonial rules. These could be carried over from Judaism or other previous convictions, and are not 'unclean in themselves' (14).
Paul begins with a warning, 'Welcome those who are weak in faith, but not to argue with them about their scruples; to try to make them more like you'. Within the body there may be people who only 'eat vegetables' (2) because of some conviction. We don't know why Paul chose vegetables in this case, but the point is that a Christ-follower feels compelled to abstain from meat and those who are 'free' to eat anything must not judge or look down upon them. The reason is just; 'God has welcomed him' (3). Neither party (the weak in faith or the strong) are allowed to judge or despise the other. For "who are you to pass judgment" on a fellow servant of the Lord? (4). Verse 5 changes from food to observance of special days. Some people put more importance on certain days than others do.
Verse 6 is key; if you observe a day, honor the Lord; if you eat, honor the Lord and give thanks; if you abstain, honor the Lord and give thanks. Whatever you do, always, honor the Lord.
Verses 7-11 remind us of our standing in Christ. None of us live or die to ourselves; we live and die to the One who lived and died for us. And it is not our place to pass judgment on each other in the body. For we will all stand before God, at the judgment seat, and be judged for what we have done in Him. We will each 'give an account of [ourselves] to God'.
The alternative to judgment and condescension in the body is this; 'walk in love' (15). Don't pass judgment, decide not to make a brother stumble by what he thinks is unclean, and do not let eating grieve your brother. He end this passage with a troubling, challenging statement; "By what you eat, do not destroy the one for whom Christ died' (15). "Destroy" here is the same word used in 1 Corinthians 8:10-12. Its definition contains harsh language of eternal destruction and consequence. This is difficult to understand fully, but the message is clear; your actions affect people, BE CAREFUL!!!
Verse 17 focuses us back on the main issue; "For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking but of righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit".
If you serve Christ, you are acceptable to God and approved by men (18). In Christ, we should pursue peace and mutual edification. In our obedience to God we should not hinder or destroy His work by imposing our conviction about eating or abstaining on others in the body. 'Destroy' in verse 20 is more the idea of dissolving or subverting. Peace and unity are the calling of the body of Christ. Legalistic impositions challenge the work of unity.
The conditions are that everything must be done to honor Him, and done in obedience to Him. For one must have full faith in what he eats or abstains from. No rationalization of man stands; it must be under conviction from God.
How does this affect my worship?
Verses 6 is a timely reminder of 'whole-life' worship of God. While acts of worship must be intentional and purposed, our whole life is to honor Him. Whether we observe a special day or not, whether we hold to dietary scruples or not, we are always to honor the Lord and give Him thanks.
How does this affect my discipleship?
I was convicted in this study by verses 10 and 12. I don't think enough about standing before God at the judgment seat. This is different than the judgment of my soul between eternal blessedness and punishment (for that is secure, as I am 'hidden with Christ in God' Col 3:3). This is the seat that all Christ-followers will stand before and be judged for our service and obedience. We will 'give an account' of ourselves before God. While my commitment to follow Him and make disciples is out of love and obedience, I must never forget that I will give an account for my faithfulness and how I walk. We must always strive to honor Him, obey Him, and worship Him fully...to the end of the age.
May you walk in love toward your brothers and sisters,
Ethan
Romans 14
Grace and peace,
As we get into Romans 14, the memory passages are:
Romans 14:1-2, 13-15 (ESV)
1 As for the one who is weak in faith, welcome him, but not to quarrel over opinions. 2 One person believes he may eat anything, while the weak person eats only vegetables.
13 Therefore let us not pass judgment on one another any longer, but rather decide never to put a stumbling block or hindrance in the way of a brother. 14 I know and am persuaded in the Lord Jesus that nothing is unclean in itself, but it is unclean for anyone who thinks it unclean. 15 For if your brother is grieved by what you eat, you are no longer walking in love. By what you eat, do not destroy the one for whom Christ died.
The outline theme is Righteous Liberty in Christ.
As we get into Romans 14, the memory passages are:
Romans 14:1-2, 13-15 (ESV)
1 As for the one who is weak in faith, welcome him, but not to quarrel over opinions. 2 One person believes he may eat anything, while the weak person eats only vegetables.
13 Therefore let us not pass judgment on one another any longer, but rather decide never to put a stumbling block or hindrance in the way of a brother. 14 I know and am persuaded in the Lord Jesus that nothing is unclean in itself, but it is unclean for anyone who thinks it unclean. 15 For if your brother is grieved by what you eat, you are no longer walking in love. By what you eat, do not destroy the one for whom Christ died.
The outline theme is Righteous Liberty in Christ.
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