What does Romans 14:13 mean?

Explanation

Romans 14:13 calls for Christians to avoid passing judgment on one another, specifically in matters of personal conviction that do not contradict essential Christian teachings.

The apostle Paul is instructing believers not to criticize or look down upon others for their opinions on non-essential issues.

Instead, he encourages them to make a different kind of judgment: to be considerate by not placing obstacles or hindrances (stumbling blocks) in each other's way that could potentially harm their spiritual wellbeing.

This verse underscores a concern for the spiritual growth and conscience of others within the community. The deeper meaning suggests an underlying principle of love and respect for one's fellow believers, recognizing that actions and choices should be guided by their impact on others.

Historical Context

When Paul wrote the epistle to the Romans, the early Christian church included both Jewish and Gentile converts.

The Jewish Christians often adhered to dietary laws and special holy days, while the Gentile Christians did not.

This difference in practice led to tensions within the church, with some believers judging or despising those with differing views on these non-essential matters.

In Romans 14, Paul addresses these tensions, urging believers to be mindful of their actions and to prioritize unity and peace over individual liberties in matters that are not central to the core teachings of Christianity.

Theological Insights

Different theological perspectives can be drawn from this verse:

• From a reformed standpoint, believers are encouraged to exercise their Christian liberty with sensitivity to others, understanding that the weaker brother or sister may not share the same convictions.
• A Catholic interpretation might place emphasis on community and the moral responsibility to ensure that one's personal exercise of freedom does not lead to scandal or the spiritual detriment of others.
• An evangelical perspective often emphasizes the personal relationship with God and the importance of not allowing legalistic attitudes to hinder that relationship or the relationships among believers.

Practical Applications

In practical application, Romans 14:13 suggests the following:

• Believers should refrain from critical and judgmental attitudes toward others over disputable matters.
• In daily life, Christians should be conscious of how their actions and decisions, particularly in public and within their communities, may affect the faith of others.
• This verse encourages an environment where believers build each other up, creating a community supportive of spiritual growth.

Cross-References

• 1 Corinthians 8:9 – "But take heed lest by any means this liberty of yours become a stumblingblock to them that are weak."
• Romans 14:19 – "Let us therefore follow after the things which make for peace, and things wherewith one may edify another."
• Matthew 7:1-2 – "Judge not, that ye be not judged.

For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again."

Language Study

The key word in this verse is "stumblingblock" (Greek: πρόσκομμα, pros-kom'-ma), which originally referred to an obstacle placed in the way, causing someone to trip or fall.

In the metaphorical sense, as used by Paul, it means an action or behavior that could lead another believer into sin or distress their conscience.

Another key term is "judgment" (Greek: κρίνω, kri'-no), often interpreted as the act of deciding concerning right and wrong, or the action of condemning or censuring. Paul is teaching believers to judge their actions in terms of their impact on others, not to be judgmental of the people themselves.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

The teachings of Romans 14:13 resonate with various cultural and religious traditions that emphasize community harmony and the principle of not causing harm to others.

• In Judaism, the concept of "Lifnei Iver" (placing a stumbling block before the blind) is similar, admonishing individuals not to lead others into sin.
• In Buddhism, the principle of Ahimsa, meaning non-harm or non-violence, similarly suggests that one should act in ways that do not cause harm to other beings.

Scientific Perspectives

From a scientific perspective, the verse speaks to the impact of social influences on behavior. Studies in social psychology suggest that individuals often look to each other for cues on how to act, especially in ambiguous situations.

Thus, the advice to avoid causing others to stumble has parallels in recognizing the power of social influence and leading by example.

Commentaries

Biblical scholars and theologians provide various insights on Romans 14:13:

• John Stott, in his commentary on Romans, stresses the imperative of Christians not using their freedom in Christ as an excuse for careless living that could spiritually endanger others.
• Douglas Moo, in "The Epistle to the Romans," notes the importance of esteeming the conscience of fellow believers and seeking the good of the community over personal freedom.
• F.F.

Bruce emphasizes the principle of love in action, suggesting that true Christian liberty is found not in doing what we like, but in lovingly considering the impact of our actions on others.