What does Romans 14:18 mean?

Explanation

Romans 14:18 speaks to the core of Christian behavior, focusing on the idea of service to Christ and the dual approval that comes from God and fellow humans.

It suggests that those who live according to the tenets of their faith in matters of personal conviction, particularly in this context, disputed matters like dietary laws and observance of holy days, serve Christ.

The verse underscores that the essence of Christian living is not about adhering to external rituals or practices, but about righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit (as mentioned in the previous verse, Romans 14:17).

This type of service is deemed "acceptable to God," meaning it aligns with God's will and is pleasing to Him, and "approved of men," suggesting that such behavior also garners respect and acknowledgment from others.

Historical Context

Romans 14:18 is part of the Apostle Paul's letter to the church in Rome, where there was a mix of Jewish and Gentile believers. These groups came with different backgrounds and traditions.

Jewish Christians had been accustomed to the strict dietary laws and special holy days of Judaism, while Gentile Christians were not.

In the early church, this led to tensions and judgments among believers.

Paul's letter aimed to address these disputes and to encourage the Roman Christians to accept one another, avoid causing each other to stumble, and focus on the core aspects of their faith.

Theological Insights

Theologically, this verse has been interpreted from several perspectives.

From a Protestant viewpoint, service to Christ is often seen as a matter of faith expressed in love and liberty without being bound to the Law.

Catholic interpretation might emphasize community and the importance of unity in diversity, highlighting shared service to Christ even amidst different traditions and practices.

In both viewpoints, the verse reaffirms the central Christian belief that true service to God is marked by a life transformed by the Holy Spirit.

This transformation allows believers to transcend legalistic disputes and live in a way that reflects God's love.

Practical Applications

In everyday life, this verse can be applied by focusing on the essentials of faith, such as doing what is right, promoting peace, and fostering joy within the community.

It encourages believers to avoid getting caught up in divisive and judgmental attitudes over non-essential practices and to respect the diversity of convictions within the body of Christ.

By doing so, they model a form of service that is commendable before God and also earn the respect of others, including non-believers.

Cross-References

• Romans 14:17: "For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost."
• 1 Corinthians 10:31: "Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God."
• Galatians 5:22-23: "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law."
• Colossians 3:17: "And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him."

Language Study

The original Greek terms used in Romans 14:18 include:

• "serveth" (δουλεύων/douleuōn): to be a servant, to serve, to do service.
• "acceptable" (εὐάρεστος/euarestos): well-pleasing, acceptable.
• "approved" (δοκιμός/dokimos): approved after examination, regarded as worthy or genuine.

These words stress the aspects of voluntary service, the aspect of being pleasing or acceptable to God, and the concept of being tested and found to have genuine worth.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Romans 14:18 differs from many ancient myths and religions that focused on external rituals and practices as ways to appease the gods.

In contrast, Paul's message places emphasis on internal character and serving others in love, which is seen as pleasing to the one true God. This notion contrasts with religions where the emphasis might be placed on correct ritual practice over moral character or service.

Scientific Perspectives

The concepts in Romans 14:18 do not directly intersect with scientific inquiry, as they are primarily concerned with matters of faith and interpersonal relationships.

However, the secondary approval from men that arises from righteous living may be supported by psychological studies on pro-social behavior, which often finds that altruistic actions can improve social bonding and personal well-being.

Commentaries

Commentators offer various interpretations of Romans 14:18.

Matthew Henry's Commentary remarks on the importance of focusing on the things which make for peace and edification in the church.

The Expositor's Greek Testament highlights the individual's service to Christ as a personal spiritual service that is both acceptable to God and respected by humans.

John Calvin's Commentaries discuss the freedom of believers from the burdens of the Law, with approval stemming from a clear conscience before God and honorable conduct before men.