Romans 14:1, Accept the Weak in Faith

Romans 14:1 Him that is weak in the faith receive ye, but not to doubtful disputations.

William MacDonald said well, “The Apostle Paul gives some important principles to guide God’s people in dealing with matters of secondary importance. These are the things that so often cause conflict among believers, but such conflict is quite unnecessary, as we shall see” in the subsequent verses. He touches on various aspects of a Christian’s responsibilities in interpersonal relationships so that there will be peace and harmony in the body of Christ.

The Apostle Paul urges the believers by a command that they are to personally accept the Christian brother who is weak in the faith by not passing judgment on his choices in the way he lives his Christian life. The emphasis is upon “him that is weak in the faith”, describing one whose understanding and practice of the faith still needs further maturation. Do not exclude such a one from fellowship because of his preferences that is different from your understanding of what the faith should be. There is room for tolerance and forbearance. He shall be spending the next 2 chapters to look at such matters can gender conflict in Christian fellowship.

Thank God for every care taken to foster Christian unity. It is so needful and glorying to God as the church presents a concerted effort to reach the lost, those who are outside Christ and looking to see true peace and joy on earth through the sanctifying work of the Holy Spirit in the lives of God’s people. Amen.