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Romans 14:13
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Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Let us not, therefore, judge one another any more - Let us abandon such rash conduct; it is dangerous, it is uncharitable: judgment belongs to the Lord, and he will condemn those only who should not be acquitted. That no man put a stumbling block - Let both the converted Jew and Gentile consider that they should labor to promote each other's spiritual interests, and not be a means of hindering each other in their Christian course; or of causing them to abandon the Gospel, on which, and not on questions of rites and ceremonies, the salvation of their soul depends.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Let us not therefore judge--"assume the office of judge over" one another; but judge this rather, &c.--a beautiful sort of play upon the word "judge," meaning, "But let this be your judgment, not to put a stumbling-block," &c.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Let us not therefore judge one another more,.... With respect to the observance or non-observance of the laws relating to meats and drinks, and days, and times; the apostle means, that they should not judge rashly, nor anything before the time; they should not censure and judge each other's characters and states, on account of these things, but leave all to the decisive day, to Christ the Judge, and to his bar, before which all must stand: but judge this rather; or reckon this to be the most proper, fit, and advisable: that no man put a stumblingblock or occasion to fall in his brother's way; as in the former part of the advice the apostle seems to have respect more especially to the weak brethren, who were ready to judge and condemn such as neglected the observance of the laws about meats and days, as transgressors, and as wicked persons, that ought not to be in the communion of the church; so in this he seems more principally to have regard to the stronger brethren; who, through their imprudent use of their Christian liberty, offended weaker minds, and were the occasion of their stumbling and falling, which it became them to be careful to prevent; and rather than be a means of anything of this nature, it was much better, as he afterwards observes, neither to eat flesh, nor drink wine, and entirely drop or forego the use of their liberty.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
14:13 This verse acts as a bridge. Let’s stop condemning each other summarizes 14:1-12, while the concern about causing another believer to stumble and fall becomes the major emphasis of 14:14-23. • stumble and fall: This phrase originally applied to obstacles that could trip people as they walked, or to traps into which a person might fall. It is used metaphorically throughout the New Testament for behavior that might bring spiritual harm to another person (see 1 Cor 8:9, 13; 1 Jn 2:10; cp. Matt 21:42-44; Luke 20:17-18; Rom 9:32-33; 1 Pet 2:8).
Romans 14:13
The Law of Love
12So then, each of us will give an account of himself to God.13Therefore let us stop judging one another. Instead, make up your mind not to put any stumbling block or obstacle in your brother’s way.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
We Shall All Stand Before the Judgement Seat of Christ
By David Wilkerson5.3K52:01ROM 14:10ROM 14:13TIT 2:2TIT 2:4JAS 2:122PE 2:22In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of appearing before the Judgment Seat of Christ. He references Romans 14:10, which states that everyone will give an account of themselves to God. The preacher criticizes the current generation for their lack of fear of God and their careless attitude towards life. He highlights the need for self-reflection and judgment in areas such as immodest dress and behavior that may detract from Jesus. However, he also offers hope, stating that God has made a way for believers to stand before the judgment seat without shame.
(Basics) 70. Proving God's Perfect Will(3)
By Zac Poonen2.4K13:05PRO 11:14MAT 6:33ROM 12:2ROM 14:131CO 8:91JN 2:171JN 2:28In this sermon, the speaker discusses how to find the perfect will of God for our lives. They emphasize that in the new covenant age, God primarily speaks to us through our renewed mind and the Holy Spirit. The speaker provides twelve questions that we can ask ourselves to determine if a course of action aligns with God's will. These questions include considering if it is in line with the teachings of Jesus and the apostles, if it can be done with a clear conscience, if it brings glory to God, and if it can be done in fellowship with Jesus. The speaker also highlights the importance of seeking guidance from wiser and more mature believers.
Biblical Principles of Godly Dress
By Dean Taylor1.6K59:01Godly DressROM 14:131CO 6:192CO 3:17GAL 5:1EPH 5:251TI 2:91PE 3:3In this sermon, the speaker addresses the topic of godly dress and emphasizes the importance of dressing in a way that pleases God. He acknowledges that discussing this topic may be controversial but believes it is necessary. The speaker uses examples from the Bible, such as John Wesley, to illustrate the importance of being directed towards souls and having a purpose in our appearance. He encourages the audience, particularly young people, to not be swayed by the world's standards but to live and proclaim the gospel without compromise.
Glorying Only in the Cross
By Zac Poonen1.5K31:15MAT 23:12JHN 13:34ROM 14:131CO 1:181CO 11:28GAL 6:14PHP 2:3COL 3:121PE 5:51JN 4:19This sermon emphasizes the significance of the cross of Jesus Christ, highlighting the need to move from admiration to following Jesus, the danger of pride hindering spiritual growth, and the importance of sacrificial love for others. It challenges believers to humbly focus on the sacrifice of Christ, avoid prideful judgment of others, and prioritize selfless living in light of the cross.
The Danger of Anti-Group Attitudes
By Denny Kenaston1.2K57:34JudgingMAT 5:16MAT 7:1MAT 16:24MAT 22:39ROM 10:1ROM 12:2ROM 14:13In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of walking in the steps of Jesus and using His example as a guideline for making decisions. The speaker acknowledges that it is easy to talk about following Jesus, but it is important to actually live it out. The sermon also addresses the issue of holding onto past hurts and encourages forgiveness as a way to overcome negative attitudes. The speaker urges listeners to open their hearts to biblical truths and to purposefully strive to have the same attitude as Jesus, even towards those who may reject or oppose them.
Studies in Romans-09
By William MacDonald1.1K39:31StudiesMAT 7:12ROM 13:10ROM 13:14ROM 14:13ROM 15:5In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of love and how it should guide our actions towards others. He explains that love never seeks to harm others, but actively seeks their welfare and honor. The sermon also highlights the need for spiritual alertness and moral purity, as the time is short and our salvation is nearer than ever. The preacher encourages believers to throw off sinful behaviors and put on the armor of light, living a holy life. Additionally, the sermon addresses the topic of obedience to government authority, stating that while we should obey, there are exceptions when it comes to compromising our loyalty to Jesus Christ.
Can We Judge Our Church
By Shane Idleman82244:16MAT 7:1ROM 14:131CO 4:5GAL 6:1EPH 4:29COL 3:13JAS 4:111PE 4:81JN 4:20This sermon focuses on the importance of not judging others, emphasizing the need to remove the plank from our own eye before critiquing others. It delves into the impact of critical attitudes, unrealistic expectations, and preference influencing decisions within the church. The message highlights the significance of love, grace, and encouragement in driving motives, and the need for protection against gossip and attacks, especially within the Christian community.
Dangers in the Way #4 "Dangers of Bondage and Liberty"
By A.W. Tozer0Christian LibertyBondage and FreedomMAT 11:30JHN 4:24ROM 6:1ROM 14:132CO 3:17GAL 5:1GAL 5:13EPH 5:151TI 4:31PE 2:16A.W. Tozer addresses the dangers of both bondage and liberty in the Christian life, emphasizing that believers must avoid returning to the yoke of bondage from which they were freed, such as superstition and legalism. He warns against the dangers of misusing Christian liberty as a license to sin, stressing that true freedom in Christ is the ability to live righteously and love others without the constraints of external traditions or fears. Tozer encourages Christians to embrace their identity as children of God, living in the Spirit and exercising their freedom responsibly, while also being mindful of how their actions may affect others. He concludes by affirming that the yoke of Jesus is easy and His burden is light, urging believers to stand firm in their freedom without falling back into bondage.
Pharisees Bind Heavy Burdens on Others
By Zac Poonen0True DiscipleshipHypocrisyMAT 7:3MAT 11:30MAT 23:4LUK 11:46JHN 8:32ROM 14:132CO 1:24GAL 6:5JAS 3:11PE 5:2Zac Poonen addresses the hypocrisy of Pharisaical preachers who impose heavy burdens on others while failing to uphold the same standards themselves. He shares a personal experience from a youth camp where a speaker demanded excessive devotion without practicing it himself, revealing the inconsistency and burden of such teachings. Poonen emphasizes that true preaching should liberate and bless rather than bind and burden, contrasting the approach of Jesus, who used Scripture to free people rather than constrain them. He warns that many young people are disillusioned with church due to these burdensome teachings, which misrepresent God's Word.
Epistle 189
By George Fox0FaithfulnessUnity in ChristDEU 2:25JER 9:3ROM 1:16ROM 2:14ROM 14:132TI 1:10JAS 5:71JN 5:19REV 14:6REV 21:2George Fox encourages his friends in New England and Virginia to remain steadfast in the truth and power of God, urging them to spread the gospel and confound deceit. He emphasizes the importance of unity, love, and patience, reminding them to avoid judging one another and to dwell in God's power to overcome worldly adversities. Fox highlights the necessity of preaching the everlasting gospel to all nations, assuring them that through patience and perseverance, they will witness the triumph of truth over falsehood. He calls for a commitment to the seed of God, which will sustain them against the trials of life and the challenges posed by spiritual deception.
Epistle 109
By George Fox0PatienceUnity in ChristGEN 9:23PSA 60:2ISA 58:12MAT 18:20ACT 8:23ROM 14:131CO 13:5PHP 4:5COL 4:6JAS 4:11George Fox emphasizes the importance of patience and unity among believers, urging them to refrain from judging and speaking ill of one another, as such actions sow discord and allow worldly influences to disrupt their fellowship. He encourages friends to dwell in the life of God, fostering love and understanding, and to cover each other's shortcomings with grace. Fox warns against the dangers of strife and the worldly spirit, advocating for moderation and temperance as essential virtues that reflect God's truth. He calls for a commitment to love and unity, highlighting that true strength lies in the seed of God that brings healing and reconciliation. Ultimately, he stresses that the weight of truth should be valued above all, as it is the foundation for genuine community and spiritual growth.
Asa Did . . . Right in the Eyes
By F.B. Meyer0Accountability to GodRighteousness1KI 15:112CH 14:32CH 16:12PSA 139:1PRO 3:5MAT 5:16ROM 14:13GAL 6:1JAS 1:51PE 2:12F.B. Meyer emphasizes the importance of living righteously in the eyes of the Lord, as exemplified by King Asa, who took bold actions to remove idolatry from his kingdom. Despite his commendable efforts, Asa's failure to remove the high places and his reliance on physicians rather than seeking God in his affliction highlight the need for complete devotion and accountability to God. Meyer urges believers to live authentically, ensuring that their actions reflect their faith and do not lead others astray. The sermon calls for a deeper commitment to God, recognizing that true righteousness involves both personal integrity and consideration for the impact of our actions on others.
Helping or Hindering New Believers
By A.W. Tozer0Supporting New BelieversThe Role of Church CommunityMAT 18:3ROM 14:131CO 3:1GAL 5:7EPH 4:29COL 3:162TI 2:15HEB 5:12JAS 1:51PE 2:2A.W. Tozer emphasizes the joy of new converts in their faith journey, noting that their happiness can be threatened by certain Bible teachers and church members who may inadvertently hinder their growth. He acknowledges that while some teachers and members can inspire and support new believers, others may complicate their faith with unnecessary complexities or disillusionment. Tozer warns that the simplicity of faith can be lost when new converts encounter negative influences too early in their spiritual walk, which can lead to struggles in their advancement in the Christian life.
The Epistle to the Romans - Part 3
By Arno Clemens Gaebelein0ROM 14:13ROM 15:7ROM 16:17ROM 16:25Arno Clemens Gaebelein preaches about the importance of unity and love among believers, emphasizing the need to bear with the weaknesses of others and not to judge or cause them to stumble. He highlights Christ as the ultimate example of selflessness and calls for believers to imitate His love and humility. Gaebelein also addresses the dangers of false teachers who seek to create divisions and deceive through kind words, warning believers to stay away from such influences. The sermon concludes with a reminder of God's power to establish and strengthen His people according to the Gospel and the revelation of the mystery of Christ, offering praise and glory to God through Jesus Christ.
Rules for the Conduct of Celibate Brethren
By Clement of Rome0ROM 14:131CO 8:9PHP 2:151TH 4:31PE 1:15Clement of Rome emphasizes the importance of maintaining purity and avoiding situations that may cause others to stumble. He instructs believers to be mindful of their actions and interactions with the opposite sex, ensuring they conduct themselves in a blameless manner. By upholding these standards, they demonstrate their reverence for God and strive to live without causing offense to anyone.
How Carefully Stumbling-Blocks Must Be Avoided
By Clement of Rome0PRO 4:23MAT 5:8ROM 14:131CO 8:91CO 10:321TH 5:221TI 5:21PE 2:111JN 2:10Clement of Rome emphasizes the importance of being cautious and avoiding situations that may lead to temptation or false accusations, even if it means refraining from good deeds like praying or reading Scriptures in the presence of a lone believing woman. He urges believers to prioritize the well-being and spiritual growth of others over personal desires, especially in matters that could cause a fellow believer to stumble or be led astray. Clement stresses the need to love God and neighbor by being vigilant not to be a stumbling block to anyone, whether Jew, Gentile, or fellow Christian, and to always act in a way that promotes purity and righteousness.
Epistle 217
By George Fox0EXO 34:24ISA 11:2ISA 59:8ISA 63:10DAN 4:3JHN 4:24JHN 8:44ROM 8:26ROM 14:13ROM 14:171CO 15:58EPH 4:16EPH 4:30PHP 2:1COL 2:23COL 4:61TH 5:192TI 3:16HEB 2:14HEB 3:5HEB 10:20HEB 12:91JN 5:9REV 3:11George Fox preaches about living in the power of God, which brings unity, peace, and joy, and overcomes strife and the works of the devil. He emphasizes the importance of dwelling in the truth, answering it in every person, and maintaining fellowship in the spirit of God. Fox encourages believers to pray, praise, and glorify God in the spirit of wisdom, avoiding actions that grieve or quench the spirit of God. He urges them to be led by the spirit, keep their fellowship with God, and preserve their meetings in the spirit against worldly influences.
Luke 17:1-4. Christ Teaches the Forgiveness of Injuries.
By Favell Lee Mortimer0MAT 18:6MRK 11:25ROM 14:13EPH 4:32COL 3:131PE 3:8Favell Lee Mortimer emphasizes Jesus' important teachings to His disciples, warning against causing stumbling blocks for weaker believers and harboring an unforgiving spirit. Believers are urged to be considerate and refrain from actions that may lead others astray, showing grace and forgiveness as Jesus has shown to us. The duty to protect and uplift fellow believers is highlighted, stressing the need for mutual concessions and forgiveness in resolving conflicts within the family of God.
Self Judged and Mastery
By George Fox0JHN 16:13ROM 14:131CO 12:4GAL 6:31JN 1:5George Fox emphasizes the importance of dwelling in the measure of God's Spirit, which brings unity and peace. He warns against boasting above one's measure and encourages self-reflection to allow the Spirit to guide individuals closer to God. Fox urges believers to judge themselves with the Light to avoid condemnation and strive for unity in love. He highlights that moving away from the eternal life into the changeable world leads to strife and confusion.
For if I Yet Pleased Men, I Should Not Be the Servant of Christ.
By Martin Luther0ACT 18:18ACT 21:26ROM 2:29ROM 14:131CO 9:22GAL 2:3GAL 5:1Martin Luther discusses how false apostles cleverly tried to discredit Paul by pointing out apparent contradictions in his actions, such as circumcising Timothy and observing ceremonial laws. Paul's actions were out of consideration for the weak brethren, not to preach the Law or circumcision. The false apostles twisted Paul's intentions to make him appear unfavorable to the Jews, who would have praised him if he had preached legalism. Luther emphasizes the importance of understanding the context and motives behind Paul's actions to avoid misinterpretation and false accusations.
Keep Your Judgements in Check
By Mary Wilder Tileston0PRO 19:11MAT 7:3LUK 6:37ROM 14:131CO 13:4Mary Wilder Tileston, in her sermon, emphasizes the importance of refraining from judging others and instead focusing on self-improvement. She highlights the need to address our own faults before pointing out those of others, urging us to seek purity in our souls before criticizing our neighbors. Tileston stresses the significance of developing a kind and charitable mindset, rather than indulging in sharp criticism and analysis of others' characters, which can lead to uncharitable behavior.
Ask, and It Shall Be Given You
By A.B. Simpson0ROM 14:13The preacher delves into the concept of stumbling, which can be both literal and figurative, representing obstacles that cause one to trip or fall physically or spiritually. Proskomma, translated as obstacle, offense, or stumbling block, is explored in various Bible verses such as Romans 9:32, Romans 14:13, and 1 Peter 2:8, highlighting the importance of not being a hindrance to others' faith. The metaphor of Christ as a Stone or Rock, symbolizing different aspects like stumbling, cornerstone, and judgment, is examined across Old and New Testament verses, emphasizing the significance of Christ in different contexts.
The New Covenant Part Iii ('States' of the Conscience)
By Robert Wurtz II0ROM 1:28ROM 14:13ROM 14:21ROM 14:23GAL 5:131TI 4:2HEB 2:15HEB 9:9Robert Wurtz II preaches about the different types of conscience - the guilty conscience, the evil conscience, the good conscience, and the weak conscience. He emphasizes the importance of having a conscience purged by the blood of Christ and aligned with God's laws to make moral decisions. Wurtz also discusses the dangers of legalism and liberty in the Christian life, cautioning against using freedom as an excuse for sin or causing others to stumble.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Let us not, therefore, judge one another any more - Let us abandon such rash conduct; it is dangerous, it is uncharitable: judgment belongs to the Lord, and he will condemn those only who should not be acquitted. That no man put a stumbling block - Let both the converted Jew and Gentile consider that they should labor to promote each other's spiritual interests, and not be a means of hindering each other in their Christian course; or of causing them to abandon the Gospel, on which, and not on questions of rites and ceremonies, the salvation of their soul depends.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Let us not therefore judge--"assume the office of judge over" one another; but judge this rather, &c.--a beautiful sort of play upon the word "judge," meaning, "But let this be your judgment, not to put a stumbling-block," &c.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Let us not therefore judge one another more,.... With respect to the observance or non-observance of the laws relating to meats and drinks, and days, and times; the apostle means, that they should not judge rashly, nor anything before the time; they should not censure and judge each other's characters and states, on account of these things, but leave all to the decisive day, to Christ the Judge, and to his bar, before which all must stand: but judge this rather; or reckon this to be the most proper, fit, and advisable: that no man put a stumblingblock or occasion to fall in his brother's way; as in the former part of the advice the apostle seems to have respect more especially to the weak brethren, who were ready to judge and condemn such as neglected the observance of the laws about meats and days, as transgressors, and as wicked persons, that ought not to be in the communion of the church; so in this he seems more principally to have regard to the stronger brethren; who, through their imprudent use of their Christian liberty, offended weaker minds, and were the occasion of their stumbling and falling, which it became them to be careful to prevent; and rather than be a means of anything of this nature, it was much better, as he afterwards observes, neither to eat flesh, nor drink wine, and entirely drop or forego the use of their liberty.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
14:13 This verse acts as a bridge. Let’s stop condemning each other summarizes 14:1-12, while the concern about causing another believer to stumble and fall becomes the major emphasis of 14:14-23. • stumble and fall: This phrase originally applied to obstacles that could trip people as they walked, or to traps into which a person might fall. It is used metaphorically throughout the New Testament for behavior that might bring spiritual harm to another person (see 1 Cor 8:9, 13; 1 Jn 2:10; cp. Matt 21:42-44; Luke 20:17-18; Rom 9:32-33; 1 Pet 2:8).