Romans 14:13-23
Why you (probably) need to care more about yourself in conscience matters.
1. Hand down a verdict
-in the favor of fellow Christians (v. 13a)
-and for clear paths of unity (v. 13b).
2. New Covenant uncleanness comes from a trampled conscience.
The Old Covenant category of uncleanness is helpful here
-because much uncleanness was by context, not by nature.
-because “cleanneess” was a community concern.
3a. Pay attention to the pains of others’ consciences (15)
-Keep your good things for other contexts.
3b. Pay attention to the goodness of the things you are enjoying (16).
4. Adopt the spiritual priorities of Christ’s kingdom (vv. 17-19).
Though we do not want a sharp divide between “secular and sacred,” we can distinguish how this inward intensification of the covenant relationship makes us practically change what we care about.
Healthy Christians exult in “righteousness, peace, and joy” —not freedom or any earthly delight.
5. Examine your faith-in-full in God’s presence.
Join us as we prayerfully study Paul’s Epistle to the Romans, a letter that has strengthened the church and enriched believers throughout church history.
