Romans 14:10, Exercise Forbearance

Romans 14:10 But why dost thou judge thy brother? or why dost thou set at nought thy brother? for we shall all stand before the judgment seat of Christ.

The Apostle Paul is asking the believers to give space for each other to grow in the grace and knowledge of the Lord Jesus Christ. Be not quick to be offended by the difference in preference that each has. He has cited the examples concerning the food that they choose to partake. He asked that Christian grace be exercised. He has asked the believers to exercise forbearance for the weak brother who choose to eat only vegetable and will not take meat. As William MacDonald said well, “Let this be not a test of fellowship.” Do not allow such matters to hinder Christians from relating to one another. To “set at nought” is to devour one another with unkind words because of such differing practices.

The Apostle Paul tells us that Christ is the ultimate Judge. We shall all stand before the judgment seat of Christ. Rewards will be given to the faithful servant who serves God and men with humbleness of heart and loss of reward for the unfaithful. Give each other the benefit of the doubt. Accept them who are still weak in the faith. Allow them room to grow by giving them time to know the ways of God and change.

The fellowship among Christians is sweet and encouraging. It is brought forth when each would be willing to bear with the weakness of the other. May the Lord bless His body that the gospel be furthered and souls saved and built up in the faith. Amen.