As I think on this today it really is in tune with the scripture reading. None of us have arrived. We all need spiritual growth. It is our duty to build each other up and help each other in the faith. Chapter 14 is telling us to stop passing judgement on one another because of the way they serve the Lord. “For we all will stand before God’s judgment seat.” One of satan’s favorite things is to get God’s people fighting against each other. We have to understand that some, who are weak in the faith, may need to stay away from areas of great temptation (temptation for them) where it may be no temptation at all for others, who are stronger in the faith. Paul uses the example of meat offered to idols. For those who are strong in their faith may not think anything about eating meat from the marketplace but those who are still young and weak in faith may feel great conviction. The one who feels conviction may have been an idol worshipper before salvation so they must stay far away from anything to do with idol worship. One who has never had a problem with idol worship will have no conviction. Who is right? That is the question that would get people arguing. Paul is telling us to stop. The main point is that we all should do everything to glorify God. Do everything for the Lord. Sometimes the path is not clear so we have to follow our conscience. Those who are stronger in the faith may need to give up their freedom to eat whatever they want in order to protect those who have conviction.
"Let us therefore make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification. Do not destroy the work of God for the sake of food. All food is clean, but it is wrong for a person to eat anything that causes someone else to stumble. It is better not to eat meat or drink wine or to do anything else that will cause your brother or sister to fall. So whatever you believe about these things keep between yourself and God."
"Complete abstinence is easier than perfect moderation." ~ Saint Augustine
As I think about theses things I think of my little girl who is growing in faith and while she has never sacrificed an animal to an idol, certainly there are things that I need to stay away from just to keep her from being deceived or weakened. The first verses of chapter 15 says it perfectly.
“We who are strong ought to bear with the failings of the weak and not to please ourselves. Each of us should please our neighbors for their good, to build them up.”Finally in chapter 16 Paul talks about those who cause division and offenses against what you’ve been taught. We should avoid them because they are out to serve themselves and not our Lord.
We need to watch out for our younger sisters and brothers as well, so that they will not be hindered. This is all for the glory of our great God.
Wow. I read right over that verse about bearing with failings of others! It's funny how you can read something time and again, and it take new meaning in your life when others point you to a new perspective. Thank you, Amy. And we celebrate with you in your daughter's commitment to the Lord!
ReplyDeleteAmy, I was so excited and happy to hear of your daughters baptism. I have seen you and Homer dedicate your children to God and it is wonderful to see you two carry it through. It is the way you live your life and not what you say so much that will lead them in the right direction. I loved your post because it tells us that we should not fight or argue with one another on how we serve God.
ReplyDeleteWe also rejoice with you over your daughter's baptism on Sunday. What a sweet moment. You both as parents have shown a direct path that your children will follow and live for the Lord.
ReplyDeleteThese verses should be read by all in the church - do not judge others in the way they serve and be careful of what you do in your own life to help others stay away from something that is tempting to them. Great post Amy!
Amy - I was so thrilled at Peyton's baptism on Sunday! I can remember when Eric held her as a baby when we went on that SWAT mission trip with you all! And now whe is a new baptized Christian! AMAZING!!! Once again we see Paul urging us in these chapters to NOT focus on ourselves, but to put the needs of others first and all the forms in which we can do that. I feel VERY strongly about trying to help young people with their spiritual growth. Once again we see the importance of discipleship!!! Wonderful post Amy!!!
ReplyDeleteAmy, I was not able to be at church Sunday- but everytime a child gets baptized my heart rejoices- but I also send prayers up to ask that God keep them close to Him. I love how you related what Paul said to your daughter! Baptism is just the beginning! I can't wait to watch her grow in the Lord. Discipleship is so vital- and we have to be so careful. I also loved that quote- abstinence is much easier than perfect moderation. So true!!
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