The BIG Picture (Q&A)

One of the most misunderstood phrases in Romans 14 is Paul’s declaration: “All things indeed are pure; but it is evil for that man who eateth with offence.” — Romans 14:20 (KJV) At first glance, it seems sweeping— all things ? Surely Paul doesn’t mean lying, stealing, or revenge are pure. And he doesn’t. The key lies in context, and in rightly dividing between moral absolutes and matters of conscience. Romans 14 is not a chapter about sin in its raw form. It’s a chapter about liberty, conscience, and the delicate dance between personal persuasion and communal edification. Paul is addressing believers who differ in their convictions about food, drink, and holy days—issues that are not inherently sinful, but can become spiritually harmful when handled carelessly. When Paul says “all things are pure,” he’s speaking of externally lawful, morally neutral actions —especially those tied to ceremonial or cultural observances. Eating meat, drinking wine, esteeming one day above another—these ...

As we navigate the complexities of Christian living, we often find ourselves at crossroads, unsure of how to navigate the nuances of faith and practice. In Romans 14, the Apostle Paul addresses a crucial aspect of Christian relationships, urging believers to walk in love and unity amidst differing convictions. As we explore this chapter, we're reminded that our faith is not only a personal matter but also one that requires consideration for others. In this lesson, we'll dive into the heart of Paul's teaching, culminating in the profound statements in verses 22-23, which serve as a guiding principle for navigating disputable matters. The context of Romans 14 is centered around the issue of "weaker brethren" (Romans 14:1), those whose faith is not as mature or robust as others. Paul exhorts believers not to "despise" or "judge" these weaker brethren (Romans 14:3, 10), but rather to receive them with open arms, just as Christ has received us (Roma...