Romans 14:14-16, Guard Your Testimony

Romans 14:14-16 I know, and am persuaded by the Lord Jesus, that there is nothing unclean of itself: but to him that esteemeth any thing to be unclean, to him it is unclean. 15 But if thy brother be grieved with thy meat, now walkest thou not charitably. Destroy not him with thy meat, for whom Christ died. 16 Let not then your good be evil spoken of:

The Apostle Paul is asking the believer to guard his testimony that he is not charged by the weaker brother for being unkind and lack grace in accommodating his weakness. The weaker brother would understand that his weakness does not warrant such harsh treatment from a fellow believer.

Even when a weak brother does not submit to God’s truth, the Apostle Paul advised Timothy to be gentle in giving counsel, 2 Timothy 2:24-25 “And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient, In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth.” Giving room and time for the weak brother – Do not despise or discourage a weaker brother who needed time to search the Scriptures to discover the truth for himself. Pray for him. Give him time, be patient and gentle, do not condemn the person. The gentle spirit is patient and helps brings others to understand the truth.

The idea here is to show tolerance and forbearance. It is a fruit of the Holy Spirit. May the Lord help us to cultivate the spirit of gentleness. Amen.