How do you discover God’s will in disputable matters? One believer in Jesus orders a glass of wine in a restaurant, while another believes drinking alcohol is wrong. One invites you to see a movie that someone else will not view due to its violence and profanity. So how do you make a decision on whether or not to do something when even mature Christians disagree over it?
This question troubled the church in Rome. Some Christians felt obligated to observe Jewish dietary and Sabbath laws, while others believed they no longer applied. Paul sided with the latter, but he thought that was beside the point. More important than who was right was how everyone got along. Paul offered three questions that apply to any decision:
Am I violating another believer’s freedom? Paul told those who possess a weaker faith not to condemn those who “eat certain foods” or “think every day is alike” (Romans 14:3-10). Each person must answer to God, who alone “will judge whether they stand or fall” (Romans 14:4). We must give each other space to stand before God, condemning only activities that Scripture clearly indicates are wrong.
Will this edify other believers? Paul warned stronger believers in Jesus not to flaunt their freedom, for they could “ruin someone for whom Christ died” (Romans 14:15). The right thing done in the wrong way is still sin. Paul explained, “It is better not to eat meat or drink wine or do anything else if it might cause another believer to stumble” (Romans 14:21).
Can I thank God for this? This gratitude test is the defining question for everyone (Romans 14:6). Can I offer a prayer of thanksgiving to God before this activity and after I’m done? If so, enjoy your freedom in Jesus. If not, then you should abstain. May God be honored in our decisions!
NLT 365-day reading plan passage for today: Luke 17:20-37
More:
Read 1 Corinthians 10:23–1 Corinthians 11:1 to learn how to use your freedom responsibly in disputable matters.
Next:
Why is it vital that you consider other believers’ views instead of forcing your own on them? How can the gratitude test help with a decision you need to make today?
Gary Shultz on August 21, 2015 at 5:30 am
You folks are really digging in deep lately, and I enjoy it. I really enjoy when a subject is examined and dissected and laid out with a good examination report and resolve. Nice job, I believe this is a collectible. At least some good thought to be thrown on the blazes of these types of subjects. Thanks
Marlena Graves on August 21, 2015 at 6:58 am
“Can I offer a prayer of thanksgiving to God before this activity and after I’m done?” This is a very freeing thought. Thank you. Though, I know some who have become twisted who would give thanks for things Scripture clearly prohibits (i.e., I didn’t marry the right person and she/he awakens me. I am grateful I found my soulmate and now I am going to divorce my spouse). Clearly that is not what you are saying! Thank you, Mike.
Winn Collier on August 21, 2015 at 4:27 pm
yeah, that’s good isn’t it? Thanks, Mike.
Mike Wittmer on August 21, 2015 at 11:22 am
You make a good point, Marlena. The gratitude test assumes that our consciences are informed by the Word of God. When we don’t fill our hearts with God’s Word, they can lead us astray.
Winn Collier on August 21, 2015 at 4:27 pm
It’s always struck me how in this narrative it is the “stronger” Christian who has the looser scruples and the “weaker” Christian who has more narrow scruples. Often, when I’ve been in scenarios that seem to be analogous, it’s often the “weaker” Christians (in Paul’s terminology) who think they are the stronger. Really interesting.
Mike Wittmer on August 21, 2015 at 11:40 pm
Good point. It’s interesting that the stronger ones were the Jews who had tradition on their side. But the coming of Jesus changed everything, which is why the book of Hebrews was written. These stronger traditionalists were in danger of taking the shadow for the substance, and missing Jesus. A needed warning for many of us!