Paul’s instructions in Romans 14 addresses judging others and the actions that often cause others to struggle in their faith. He then introduces a practical tool to handle these damaging issues which are far too common. So then let us pursue what makes for peace and for mutual upbuilding (Romans 14:19). Reading this chapter, it’s easy to see that this is not an isolated or standalone instruction. Rather, this is a tool which is used best by those who have Christ centered motives for the strong health of the church.
As believers in Jesus Christ, Paul argues that our priorities have changed, which our great enemy wants us to either forget or ignore. So then, whether we live or whether we die, we are the Lord’s (Romans 14:8). Overruling all personal desires and motives is the fact that we belong to the Lord first and foremost. Evidence of Christ’s ownership is seen when we decide never to put a stumbling block or hindrance in the way of a brother (Romans 14:13).
The body of Christ demonstrates Christ’s character best when we put others first, serving others before self-interest, just as Jesus Christ does for us. Fueling our daily motivation for peaceful living should be attitudes and actions that encourage, refresh, and strengthen others. Personal wants or preferences should never be permitted to destroy the work of God (Romans 14:20). Because causing damage or stunting the growth of other believers is not of God, we strive to excel in building up the church (1 Corinthians 14:12).
Paul was not shy in identifying fleshly behaviour that diminishes God’s glory in the church. He even labeled a few sinfully destructive activities in 2 Corinthians 12:20; quarreling, jealousy, anger, hostility, slander, gossip, conceit, and disorder. While these toxic attitudes and behaviours are celebrated by the devil, they are to be hated and rejected by God’s people. Yet, it’s ironic how often those who have been damaged by these dishonouring traits go on to become the perpetrators of them.
Paul’s rationale is clearly seen in Ephesians 5:1-2; be imitators of God, as beloved children. And walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God. This is the truest heart desire of those living in Christ. Building up others in the faith is how we invest God’s resources into one another’s lives for God’s glory! Obviously, this requires some thought. Reformatting personal values and priorities to become God’s values and priorities is essential. This is an internal work which the Holy Spirit is invested in because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us (Romans 5:5).
Jesus’ younger half brother Jude, when writing to protect the purity of the church from worldly people who sneak in, speaks to this matter. Amongst other things, Jude writes, but you, beloved, building yourselves up in your most holy faith and praying in the Holy Spirit, keep yourselves in the love of God (Jude :20-21). We cannot separate God’s love, Holy Spirit permeated prayer, and building up each other in the faith. These are essentials for the growth and health of the church. These express God’s mercy, God’s holiness, God’s purpose, and God’s glory.
May we worship the Lord as Paul encouraged the Corinthian church, let all things be done for building up (1 Corinthians 14:26). And may we follow Paul’s exhortation in 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18, Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.
