Be a light in the darkness!

In the darkness of our world with a pandemic that seems to keep a step ahead of us and scenes from Washington D.C. where democracy is being attacked, Christians should be lights of hope. Paul addresses the importance of proper relations within the body of Christ in Romans 15:1-13 which the world needs to see.

Paul was concerned that unity in Christ was being sacrificed by those who were self-serving. Strong Christians wanted to flaunt their freedom by eating meat in front of weaker Christians who did not eat meat for conscience’ sake. Chrysostom, a 4th century theologian and church leader, rightly declared concerning Jesus, He had power not to have been reproached, power not to have suffered what He did suffer, had He been minded to look to His own things. And consider the words of Warren Wiersbe, Does a strong Christian think he is making a great sacrifice by giving up some food or drink? Then let him measure his sacrifice by the sacrifice of Christ. No sacrifice we could ever make could match Calvary.

Today, the church continues to have issues which divide. They need not be noted for any Christian who associates or disassociates with other believers knows them well. Romans 15 is as fresh today as it was in the 1st Century. The issue in the church that keeps us from being light in the darkness is our focus on preferences instead of a focus on Christ. Douglas Moo wrote, Divisions in the church over nonessentials diverts precious time and energy from its basic mission: the proclamation of the gospel and the glorifying of God. Also, hear Frederic Godet, a 19th c. pastor and theologian, Mutual love ought to reign supremely in a church wholly composed of the Lord’s well-beloved.

I encourage each of us to examine our hearts with the desire to major on the person and work of Christ by pursuing unity not personal privilege. Join the study of Romans 15:1-13 under the Books of the Bible tab. We can make a difference as we choose to be servants.