Romans 14:19

"For he who serves Christ in these things is acceptable to God and approved by men."

Key Reflection

In the first-century Roman and Hellenistic contexts, religious observance was highly scrutinized and could significantly impact one's social standing. For a Christian to serve Christ through actions like those described in Romans 14:19—upholding dietary laws, observing days of rest, or abstaining from idol worship—would ensure that their faith was not only pleasing to God but also respected by others. This dual acceptance would strengthen the early Christian communities and foster a sense of unity and legitimacy within both religious and secular spheres.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

Verse 19. Let us therefore follow, etc. The object of this verse is to persuade the church at Rome to lay aside theft causes of contention, and to live in harmony. This exhortation is founded on the considerations which the apostle had presented, and may be regarded as the conclusion to which the argument had conducted him. The things which make for peace. The high purposes and objects of the Christian religion, and not those smaller matters which produce strife. If men aim at the great objects proposed by the Christian religion, they will live in peace. If they seek to promote theft private ends, to follow their own passions and prejudices, they will be involved in strife and contention.

Related Verses

More from Romans 14

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27

Go deeper with Bible.talk - your AI Bible study companion