Romans 14:7-12 … “Why do you pass judgment on your brother or sister? Or you, why do you despise your brother or sister?” v. 10
The issue Paul was addressing had to do with choices people were making about being vegetarians–such persons were disparaged as being weak in faith. Paul may have felt that way himself but he tells others to refrain from passing judgment. It should be possible for people of varying convictions to be a part of the same community of faith. It may seem an obvious proposition, but it’s being put to the test big-time as the COVID crisis and the political campaign become threats to the unity of our congregations. As people express their strong convictions about masks, race, closures, and candidates, tempers are flaring, and there is a tendency to label opposing viewpoints as foolish or even stupid. Some are coming to despise those holding contrary opinions. Certainly judgments are being flung in every direction, and it may even be that long time friendships will be damaged beyond repair. Paul would say that if we think other people are wrong in what they think or say, that’s not a reason to pass judgment on them. People of faith can have a variety of opinions, even contrary ones, but what binds us together is the love of Christ, and no force on earth is stronger than that. When we really love one another, nothing should drive us apart.
Thought for the Day: Why do people believe foolish things?
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