“For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit, because anyone who serves Christ in this way is pleasing to God and receives human approval.” - Romans 14:17-18
Read Romans 14:13-21
In this passage, Paul addresses a significant issue in the early church: the division caused by differing opinions on food. Some believers, particularly those from Jewish backgrounds, adhered strictly to dietary laws, while Gentile converts felt no such obligation. This difference led to judgment and division within the community.
Paul emphasizes that the kingdom of God is not about eating and drinking but about righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit (v. 17). The real issue was not the food itself but the attitude of the believers towards one another. Focusing on their rights and freedoms, they placed stumbling blocks in the way of their brothers and sisters in Christ (v. 13).
Paul’s warning extends beyond food to anything that might cause another believer to stumble. This could be any behavior or attitude that leads others away from faith or causes division within the church. The principle is clear: our actions should build up the community, not tear it down.
In today’s church, stumbling blocks can take many forms. One example is the use of social media. While it can be a powerful tool for connection and ministry, it can also lead to misunderstandings, gossip, and division. When we post or share content, we must consider how it might affect others in our community. Are we promoting unity and love or causing division and hurt?
Another example is the way we handle disagreements on theological or doctrinal issues. Healthy debate can be beneficial, but it becomes a stumbling block when it turns into judgment and condemnation. We must approach such discussions with humility and a desire for mutual understanding, always prioritizing the unity of the body of Christ.
Sometimes, it may be as simple as heeding the advice of our mothers, who told us, “If you can’t say anything nice, don’t say anything at all.” This wisdom aligns perfectly with Paul’s teaching. Our words have the power to build up or tear down. James 3:5-6 reminds us that the tongue is a small part of the body but can cause great harm: “Likewise, the tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts. Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark. The tongue also is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body. It corrupts the whole body, sets the whole course of one’s life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell.” We must be mindful of our speech, ensuring that our words encourage and uplift rather than create stumbling blocks for others.
How are we to remove these stumbling blocks?
Examine Our Actions: Regularly reflect on our behavior and its impact on others.
Seek Reconciliation: Address conflicts directly and seek to restore relationships.
Promote Unity: Focus on what unites us in Christ rather than what divides us.
Show Love: Always act out of love and consideration for our brothers and sisters in Christ.
Guard Our Speech: Speak words that build up and encourage, avoiding gossip, criticism, and negativity.
Heavenly Father, we thank You for the wisdom and guidance found in Your Word. Help us to live in a way that promotes unity and peace within our church community. Show us the stumbling blocks in our lives and give us the grace to remove them. May our actions and words always reflect Your love and bring glory to Your name. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
Blessings,
Pastor Tim
Reflection Question: What stumbling blocks have you encountered in your faith journey?
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