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Romans 14:23
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- Adam Clarke
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Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
And he that doubteth - This verse is a necessary part of the preceding, and should be read thus: But he that doubteth is condemned if he eat, because he eateth not of faith. The meaning is sufficiently plain. He that feeds on any kind of meats prohibited by the Mosaic law, with the persuasion in his mind that he may be wrong in so doing, is condemned by his conscience for doing that which he has reason to think God has forbidden. For whatsoever is not of faith is sin - Whatever he does, without a full persuasion of its lawfulness, (see Rom 14:22) is to him sin; for he does it under a conviction that he may be wrong in so doing. Therefore, if he makes a distinction in his own conscience between different kinds of meats, and yet eats of all indifferently, he is a sinner before God; because he eats either through false shame, base compliance, or an unbridled appetite; and any of these is in itself a sin against the sincerity, ingenuousness, and self-denying principles of the Gospel of Christ. Some think that these words have a more extensive signification, and that they apply to all who have not true religion, and faith in our Lord Jesus Christ; every work of such persons being sinful in the sight of a holy God, because it does not proceed from a pure motive. On this ground our Church says, Art. xiii, "Works done before the grace of Christ and the inspiration of his Spirit are not pleasant to God, forasmuch as they are not of faith in Jesus Christ; yes, for that they are not done as God hath willed and commanded them to be done, we doubt not but they have the nature of sin." To this we may add, that without faith it is impossible to please God; every thing is wrong where this principle is wanting. There are few readers who have not remarked that the last three verses of this epistle (Rom 16:25-27) appear to stand in their present place without any obvious connection; and apparently after the epistle is concluded. And it is well known to critics, that two MSS. in uncial letters, the Cod. A and I, with upwards of 100 others, together with the Slavonic, the later Syriac and Arabic, add those verses at the end of the fourteenth chapter. The transposition is acknowledged by Cyril, Chrysostom, Theodoret, Oecumenius, Theophylact, Theodulus, Damascenus, and Tertullian; see Wetstein. Griesbach inserts them at the end of this chapter as their proper place; and most learned men approve of this transposition. It may be necessary to repeat the words here that the reader may see with what propriety they connect with the subject which terminates the fourteenth chapter as it now stands. Rom 14:23 : And he that doubteth is condemned if he eat, because he eateth not of faith: for whatsoever is not of faith is sin. Rom 16:25 : Now, to him that is of power to stablish you according to my Gospel, and the preaching of Jesus Christ, (according to the revelation of the mystery which was kept secret since the world began, Rom 16:26 : But now is made manifest, and by the scriptures of the prophets, according to the commandment of the everlasting God, made known to all nations for the obedience of faith); Rom 16:27 : To God only wise be glory through Jesus Christ for ever. Amen. Rom 15:1 : We then that are strong ought to bear the infirmities of the weak, etc. These words certainly connect better with the close of the fourteenth chapter and the beginning of the fifteenth than they do with the conclusion of the sixteenth, where they are now generally found; but I shall defer my observations upon them till I come to that place, with only this remark, that the stablishing mentioned Rom 16:25, corresponds well with the doubting, Rom 14:23, and indeed the whole matter of these verses agrees so well with the subject so largely handled in the preceding chapter, that there can be very little doubt of their being in their proper place if joined to the end of this chapter, as they are in the preceding MSS. and versions.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
And--rather, "But" he that doubteth is damned--On the word "damnation," see on Rom 13:2. if he eat, because he eateth not of faith--On the meaning of "faith" here, see on Rom 14:22. for whatsoever is not of faith is sin--a maxim of unspeakable importance in the Christian life. Note, (1) Some points in Christianity are unessential to Christian fellowship; so that though one may be in error upon them, he is not on that account to be excluded either from the communion of the Church or from the full confidence of those who have more light. This distinction between essential and non-essential truths is denied by some who affect more than ordinary zeal for the honor and truth of God. But they must settle the question with our apostle. (2) Acceptance with God is the only proper criterion of right to Christian fellowship. Whom God receives, men cannot lawfully reject (Rom 14:3-4). (3) As there is much self-pleasing in setting up narrow standards of Christian fellowship, so one of the best preservatives against the temptation to do this will be found in the continual remembrance that CHRIST is the one Object for whom all Christians live, and to whom all Christians die; this will be such a living and exalted bond of union between the strong and the weak as will overshadow all their lesser differences and gradually absorb them (Rom 14:7-9). (4) The consideration of the common judgment-seat at which the strong and the weak shall stand together will be found another preservative against the unlovely disposition to sit in judgment one on another (Rom 14:10-12). (5) How brightly does the supreme Divinity of Christ shine out in this chapter! The exposition itself supersedes further illustration here. (6) Though forbearance be a great Christian duty, indifference to the distinction between truth and error is not thereby encouraged. The former is, by the tax, made an excuse for the latter. But our apostle, while teaching "the strong" to bear with "the weak," repeatedly intimates in this chapter where the truth really lay on the points in question, and takes care to call those who took the wrong side "the weak" (Rom 14:1-2, Rom 14:14). (7) With what holy jealousy ought the purity of the conscience to be guarded, since every deliberate violation of it is incipient perdition (Rom 14:15, Rom 14:20)! Some, who seem to be more jealous for the honor of certain doctrines than for the souls of men, enervate this terrific truth by asking how it bears upon the "perseverance of the saints"; the advocates of that doctrine thinking it necessary to explain away what is meant by "destroying the work of God" (Rom 14:20), and "destroying him for whom Christ died" (Rom 14:15), for fear of the doctrinal consequences of taking it nakedly; while the opponents of that doctrine are ready to ask, How could the apostle have used such language if he had believed that such a catastrophe was impossible? The true answer to both lies in dismissing the question as impertinent. The apostle is enunciating a great and eternal principle in Christian Ethics--that the wilful violation of conscience contains within itself a seed of destruction; or, to express it otherwise, that the total destruction of the work of God in the renewed soul, and, consequently, the loss of that soul for eternity, needs only the carrying out to its full effect of such violation of the conscience. Whether such effects do take place, in point of fact, the apostle gives not the most distant hint here; and therefore that point must be settled elsewhere. But, beyond all doubt, as the position we have laid down is emphatically expressed by the apostle, so the interests of all who call themselves Christians require to be proclaimed and pressed on every suitable occasion. (8) Zeal for comparatively small points of truth is a poor substitute for the substantial and catholic and abiding realities of the Christian life (Rom 14:17-18). (9) "Peace" among the followers of Christ is a blessing too precious to themselves, and, as a testimony to them that are without, too important, to be ruptured for trifles, even though some lesser truths be involved in these (Rom 14:19-20). Nor are those truths themselves disparaged or endangered thereby, but the reverse. (10) Many things which are lawful are not expedient. In the use of any liberty, therefore, our question should be, not simply, Is this lawful? but even if so, Can it be used with safety to a brother's conscience?--How will it affect my brother's soul (Rom 14:21)? It is permitted to no Christian to say with Cain, "Am I my brother's keeper?" (Gen 4:9). (11) Whenever we are in doubt as to a point of duty--where abstinence is manifestly sinless, but compliance not clearly lawful--the safe course is ever to be preferred, for to do otherwise is itself sinful. (12) How exalted and beautiful is the Ethics of Christianity--by a few great principles teaching us how to steer our course amidst practical difficulties, with equal regard to Christian liberty, love, and confidence! Next: Romans Chapter 15
Tyndale Open Study Notes
14:23 If you do anything you believe is not right, you are sinning: God’s word defines sin for us, yet sin also involves violating our conscience. The weak Christians in Rome did not yet believe in their own hearts that they could eat meat, drink wine, or ignore Jewish holy days; their consciences were still weak. They should not violate their consciences on these matters. Nor should the strong, by the power of their example or by their scorn, force weak Christians to do so.
Romans 14:23
The Law of Love
22Keep your belief about such matters between yourself and God. Blessed is the one who does not condemn himself by what he approves. 23But the one who has doubts is condemned if he eats, because his eating is not from faith; and everything that is not from faith is sin.
- Scripture
- Sermons
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Faith
By Manley Beasley5.8K43:33Biblical FaithJHN 6:29ROM 1:17ROM 14:23HEB 10:35HEB 11:4In this sermon, the preacher discusses a conversation between Jesus and his disciples. The disciples asked Jesus what they needed to do to work the works of God. Jesus responded by saying that the work of God is to believe in him, whom the Father has sent. The preacher emphasizes the importance of faith and how it is the foundation for a relationship with God. He also mentions the significance of having a burden and vision for revival. The sermon references several Bible verses, including Romans 1:17, Hebrews 11:6, and James 2:17.
Garland, Texas - Conscience
By J. Edwin Orr4.0K52:57PSA 139:23ISA 1:18JHN 16:8ROM 2:15ROM 8:1ROM 14:232CO 1:12TIT 1:15HEB 9:14HEB 10:22This sermon delves into the historical context of moral decline post-American Revolution, highlighting the societal issues of drunkenness, immorality, and lawlessness. It transitions to the importance of conscience and the role of the Holy Spirit in convicting individuals of sin, emphasizing the need for genuine repentance and cleansing through the blood of Christ. The speaker challenges the congregation to be open to God's conviction and willing to address any areas of wrongdoing in their lives to pave the way for personal revival and spiritual growth.
The Crime of Unbelief
By David Wilkerson3.6K31:21EZK 8:6MRK 9:24ROM 14:23HEB 3:12REV 21:8In this sermon, the preacher discusses a vision that the prophet Ezekiel had, where he witnessed a horrible crime being committed behind closed doors in God's house. The preacher emphasizes that even though people may clean up their lives and appear to be pure, there may still be a deep-rooted sin of fear and unbelief within them. The preacher highlights that doubting God's power and lacking trust in Him is considered a serious crime in the eyes of God. The preacher concludes that unbelief is the sin of the heart that grieves God the most, and that it is more important to address this sin than any other sin committed on earth.
K-067b the Holocaust 2 of 4
By Art Katz2.2K1:27:48HolocaustECC 3:15MAT 23:33ROM 14:23In this sermon, the preacher reflects on the absence of God in the face of death and devastation. He emphasizes the refusal of people to come to the end of themselves and instead rely on their own resources. The preacher cites a passage from the book of Ecclesiastes, highlighting the idea that what has happened in the past will happen again and God requires accountability for past actions. He also mentions the composition of corpses found in gas ovens during a historical event, emphasizing the consequences of sin and the need for revelation and understanding.
Fellowship in the Light
By Zac Poonen1.2K19:50PRO 8:34MAT 5:3ROM 4:15ROM 14:23JAS 4:17This sermon emphasizes the importance of true obedience to God's Word, highlighting the need to address sin by its worst name to achieve victory over it. It delves into the concept of poverty of spirit as the key to unlocking spiritual treasures and entering the kingdom of heaven, contrasting false humility with genuine honesty before God. The message stresses the significance of continuous progress in spiritual growth and the humility to acknowledge personal need for God's grace moment by moment.
The Liberating Law of the Spirit of Life
By John Piper1.2K26:51ROM 8:1ROM 14:23GAL 3:2In this sermon, the speaker discusses various aspects of biblical truth that are essential for leading a life according to Jesus' teachings. The first topic addressed is the essence of sin, emphasizing that anything not done in faith is considered sin. The second topic is the final judgment, exploring who will be judged and the consequences of either wrath and fury or eternal life. The third topic is the foundation of the gospel, highlighting that God justifies the ungodly through the death of Christ for our sins. The speaker also emphasizes the importance of a lifetime of faith, stating that we are justified by a life of belief in the promises of God. The sermon concludes by emphasizing the liberating power of the Holy Spirit, which frees us from the law of sin and death and leads to sanctification and eternal life.
Baptism Into the Body of Christ
By Anton Bosch1.0K43:09Body Of ChristMAT 6:33ROM 6:1ROM 14:23HEB 6:1In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the concept of being new people in Christ. He emphasizes that as Christians, we have died to sin and it no longer has a hold over us. The speaker uses the analogy of a slave and a master to illustrate this point. He also highlights the importance of being part of a local church and actively functioning within it, based on biblical principles. The sermon references Romans 6 and emphasizes the need to live a life that reflects our new identity in Christ.
Pure in Heart
By Don McClure1.0K45:06GEN 1:1PSA 51:10PRO 23:7MAT 5:8MAT 5:28ROM 14:231JN 3:15In this sermon, the speaker discusses the concept of purity of heart and its importance in the pursuit of happiness. He emphasizes the need for genuine sorrow and mourning over sin in order to attain purity. The speaker also shares personal anecdotes, such as working at Jack in the Box, to illustrate the challenges of maintaining purity in everyday life. He relates the Beatitudes from Matthew chapter 5 to the pursuit of happiness, highlighting the connection between being poor in spirit, mourning, and meekness with purity of heart. The sermon concludes by mentioning the importance of being merciful and peacemakers in order to attain true happiness.
Fruit Bearing Palm Tree 1968 - Part 3
By Bakht Singh8171:23:53Fruit BearingGEN 2:16PSA 1:1ROM 14:23In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of making a clear break with sin and sinful companions. He uses the example of a man who starts by walking with the ungodly, then progresses to standing in the way of sinners, and finally ends up sitting in the seat of the scornful. The speaker warns against the subtle and deceptive nature of sin, highlighting the danger of becoming scornful of the things of God. He encourages believers to run away from sin and to have full confidence in their actions, reminding them that whatever is not done in faith is sin. The sermon also touches on God's purpose for his people to live flourishing and fruitful lives, and the need for believers to have a deep relationship with God in order to experience true spiritual growth.
Rebuking Worldliness
By Billy Strachan80842:28WorldlinessROM 14:23JAS 5:1In this sermon, the speaker addresses the issue of worldliness and the need to resist becoming friends with the world. He emphasizes the resources available to believers to overcome this attitude, such as the Holy Spirit and the grace of God. The speaker also highlights the importance of prioritizing relationships and family over material possessions. Additionally, he warns against the dangers of being spiritually adulterous by desiring both the favor of God and the things of the world. The sermon concludes with a rebuke towards rich Christians who have a wrong attitude towards wealth and money.
On Eagles' Wings Pt 6
By Don Courville73229:11Radio ShowPSA 34:18PSA 145:2ISA 6:5MAT 5:23ACT 5:29ROM 7:18ROM 10:9ROM 14:231JN 1:9In this sermon, the preacher Evan Roberts delivers a message from God to his fellow members. He emphasizes the importance of confessing known sins to God and making amends for any wrongs done to others. He also urges the congregation to give up any doubtful habits and to promptly obey the Holy Spirit. Lastly, Roberts encourages the believers to publicly confess their faith in Christ. The sermon had a profound impact, with 17 people responding immediately and the church being filled with eager attendees. The sermon also highlights the transformative power of God's work in the life of Moses, showing that even a period of devastation and desertion can lead to a deep relationship with God and ultimately, great leadership.
From Faith to Faith - Part 1
By Lance Lambert63959:58GEN 1:2MAT 17:20JHN 10:27ROM 1:16ROM 14:232CO 5:17GAL 2:20EPH 2:8COL 1:13HEB 11:6This sermon emphasizes the foundational truth of the necessity of living, active faith in the Christian life, highlighting the importance of faith as the key to every aspect of life. It delves into the power of God through faith, the righteousness of God revealed in the gospel, and the transformative nature of being in Christ. The speaker urges listeners to cultivate and utilize the mustard seed faith given by God to move mountains and grow deeper in their relationship with the Lord.
5 Mighty Revivals in Modern History
By T.V. Thomas48700:002CH 7:14MAT 6:33ACT 5:29ROM 10:9ROM 14:232TI 4:21JN 1:9In this sermon, the speaker discusses the impact of mighty revivals in modern western history. He emphasizes the importance of learning from what God has already done and following the footprints of God. The speaker highlights the social impact of revivals, such as a decrease in crime and the conversion of many individuals. He also emphasizes the need for believers to confess their faith in Christ publicly and to put away any unconfessed sins or doubtful habits. The speaker encourages obedience to the Holy Spirit and emphasizes the importance of proclaiming the message of God without seeking popularity.
Isaiah 9:6
By Joseph Carroll2736:09Christian LifeTrust in GodFaithPSA 55:22PRO 3:5ISA 9:6MAT 11:28JHN 14:27ROM 14:232CO 5:7PHP 4:6HEB 11:61PE 5:7Joseph Carroll emphasizes the significance of faith in the life of a believer, drawing from Isaiah 9:6 to illustrate the attributes of Christ as Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, and Prince of Peace. He recounts the transformative power of faith through the story of Charles Grandison Finney and the life of Miss Gladys Dieterle, who exemplified trust in God's authority and responsibility. Carroll encourages believers to place their burdens on Christ, affirming that true faith leads to a life of rest and peace, as it acknowledges God's sovereignty in all situations. He challenges the congregation to live a life that is fully trusting in God, which is the only life that pleases Him. The sermon concludes with a call to commit to a life of faith and reliance on God's guidance.
As God Intended Man to Behave
By Major Ian Thomas1456:31Human SpiritFaith and ObediencePRO 20:27LUK 22:25JHN 14:30JHN 16:7ROM 14:23EPH 4:17HEB 9:14HEB 10:5HEB 11:6JAS 2:17Major Ian Thomas emphasizes that the unique human spirit allows man to receive the Holy Spirit, enabling divine behavior as intended by God. He explains that true faith is an attitude of total dependence on God, which is essential for pleasing Him and behaving as He intended. Thomas argues that without the Holy Spirit, man cannot fulfill his purpose and is left to function merely as an animal, devoid of divine influence. He stresses that faith must be active and expressed through obedience, as anything less is considered sin. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a deeper understanding of faith and the necessity of the Holy Spirit in restoring humanity to its intended state.
The Moral Option
By Major Ian Thomas1057:46Dependence On GodMoral ResponsibilityPRO 3:5JHN 5:19JHN 8:28JHN 12:44ROM 14:23GAL 3:14EPH 2:10COL 1:15HEB 11:6REV 4:11Major Ian Thomas emphasizes the moral option inherent in humanity, distinguishing between the instinctive behavior of animals and the moral capacity of humans to choose dependence on God. He explains that true functionality and satisfaction come from allowing the Holy Spirit to govern our minds, emotions, and wills, enabling us to reflect God's character in our actions. Thomas stresses that faith, which encompasses dependence and obedience to God, is essential for pleasing Him and fulfilling our purpose as created beings. He illustrates that Jesus exemplified this perfect relationship with the Father, and as His followers, we are called to live in the same way, allowing Christ to express Himself through us. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a genuine relationship with God that transforms our lives and actions into a true reflection of His nature.
Professor Finney's Letters to Christians No. 2
By Charles Finney0Moral ResponsibilityChristian LivingPRO 20:1MAT 5:16ROM 14:231CO 6:191CO 10:31GAL 5:13EPH 5:15COL 3:171TH 5:211PE 2:16Charles Finney addresses the issue of tobacco use among Christians, questioning the moral justification behind the habit. He emphasizes that actions must be rooted in love for God and others, and challenges believers to consider whether their use of tobacco serves a higher purpose or is merely self-indulgent. Finney argues that tobacco is harmful and poses a moral dilemma for Christians, urging them to reflect on the impact of their choices on future generations. He calls for a serious evaluation of whether using tobacco aligns with their duty to promote the well-being of others and glorify God.
The Climax Sin
By D.L. Moody0Conviction of SinUnbeliefMAT 7:21MRK 9:24JHN 3:18JHN 16:8ROM 14:232CO 5:17EPH 2:8HEB 3:12JAS 1:61JN 5:10D.L. Moody emphasizes that unbelief is the root of all sin, labeling it as the 'climax sin' of the world. He argues that many societal issues stem from this fundamental lack of faith, which leads individuals to live in sin and rebellion against God. Moody calls for the Holy Spirit's convicting power to reveal the seriousness of unbelief, stressing that true conversion must be accompanied by a deep conviction of sin. He warns against superficial conversions that lack genuine repentance and urges believers to pray for a thorough work of conviction in the hearts of men. Ultimately, Moody highlights the Spirit's role in imparting life and guiding believers into truth while convicting the world of sin.
Doubtful Actions Are Sinful
By Charles Finney0Moral ResponsibilityFaith and DoubtMAT 7:1ROM 14:231CO 8:11CO 10:31GAL 5:13COL 3:17HEB 10:26JAS 4:171PE 2:161JN 3:20Charles Finney emphasizes that actions taken in doubt are sinful, referencing Romans 14:23, which states that anything not done in faith is sin. He discusses the early church's disputes over dietary laws and the importance of acting according to one's conscience, warning that to act against one's doubts is to sin against God. Finney argues that individuals must seek clarity on their doubts and refrain from actions that could lead others astray, highlighting the moral responsibility to avoid causing others to stumble. He concludes that those who knowingly act against their doubts are condemned and must repent to avoid judgment.
The Way of Salvation
By David Shelby Corlett0PSA 51:5JHN 1:29ROM 3:23ROM 6:14ROM 10:12ROM 14:232CO 5:191PE 3:181JN 2:2David Shelby Corlett preaches about the ground of salvation, emphasizing that Jesus Christ's atonement through His sufferings, shedding of blood, and death on the cross is the only basis for salvation, as stated in 2 Corinthians 5:19, 21 and 1 Peter 3:18. He also discusses the inclusivity of the atonement for all individuals, citing John 1:29 and Romans 10:12, 13. Furthermore, he delves into the concept of salvation, sin, original sin, and the necessity of repentance and faith for salvation, drawing from various Bible verses.
A Startling Statement
By J. Wilbur Chapman0DEU 5:9PSA 90:8PRO 11:21JER 30:11EZK 18:4ROM 14:23GAL 6:7JAS 1:151JN 3:41JN 5:17J. Wilbur Chapman preaches on the consequences of sin, emphasizing that the wicked shall not go unpunished, as seen in various Bible passages. He highlights the certainty of reaping what one sows, the inescapable nature of God's judgment, and the impact of sin on individuals and generations. Chapman stresses the importance of understanding sin to grasp the need for atonement and forgiveness, pointing out that sin separates us from God, each other, and pollutes us. He presents the contrasting ways of man's futile attempts at reformation and God's offer of cleansing through the blood of Jesus Christ, illustrating the hope and mercy available despite the consequences of sin.
Day 90, 1 Corinthians 8
By David Servant0ROM 14:231CO 6:91CO 8:11CO 8:101CO 8:12David Servant delves into Paul's teachings to the Corinthians regarding the lawfulness of eating meat sacrificed to idols. Paul emphasizes the importance of love, humility, and consideration for fellow believers in matters of knowledge and conscience. He warns against causing others to stumble by acting against their conscience, even if the action itself may not be sinful. Paul stresses the need for believers to maintain clear consciences and to help others do the same, avoiding actions that may lead to sin or confusion.
O God!
By K.P. Yohannan0Faith vs. WorksTrue SalvationLUK 18:18ROM 14:23K.P. Yohannan emphasizes the futility of living by sight rather than by faith, using Mahatma Gandhi as an example of someone who, despite his adherence to the Sermon on the Mount, ultimately did not place his faith in Jesus Christ for salvation. He illustrates that mere obedience to laws, like that of the rich young ruler, does not equate to true faith, as the Bible states that 'whatever is not from faith is sin.' Yohannan warns that many Christians today may be engaged in ministry that appears good but lacks the foundation of faith, which is essential for God's blessing. He calls for believers to ensure that their actions align with God's will and are rooted in faith, as this is the only way to function effectively in God's kingdom.
Dependence
By Major Ian Thomas0Dependence On GodRepentancePRO 3:5MAT 6:24JHN 15:5ROM 8:5ROM 14:232CO 5:17GAL 5:16EPH 2:8PHP 4:131JN 3:4Major Ian Thomas emphasizes the critical distinction between living for oneself, which leads to walking after the flesh, and living for Christ, which leads to walking after the Spirit. He explains that human behavior is governed by two opposing principles: dependence on God versus independence, which is equated with sin. Thomas challenges listeners to examine the underlying principles of their actions, highlighting that true repentance involves returning to a state of dependence on God. He asserts that any area of life lacking dependence indicates a need for further repentance.
Dependence
By Major W. Ian Thomas0ACT 3:19ROM 14:232CO 3:17GAL 5:161JN 3:4Major W. Ian Thomas emphasizes the contrast between living for oneself, which leads to walking in the flesh and being under the influence of the devil, versus living for Christ, which results in walking in the Spirit and being under God's dominion. He highlights that the difference lies not just in actions but in the underlying principles that govern behavior, with independence from God being at the root of sin. Repentance, therefore, involves shifting from independence to dependence on God, and the extent of repentance is reflected in the level of dependence on Him.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
And he that doubteth - This verse is a necessary part of the preceding, and should be read thus: But he that doubteth is condemned if he eat, because he eateth not of faith. The meaning is sufficiently plain. He that feeds on any kind of meats prohibited by the Mosaic law, with the persuasion in his mind that he may be wrong in so doing, is condemned by his conscience for doing that which he has reason to think God has forbidden. For whatsoever is not of faith is sin - Whatever he does, without a full persuasion of its lawfulness, (see Rom 14:22) is to him sin; for he does it under a conviction that he may be wrong in so doing. Therefore, if he makes a distinction in his own conscience between different kinds of meats, and yet eats of all indifferently, he is a sinner before God; because he eats either through false shame, base compliance, or an unbridled appetite; and any of these is in itself a sin against the sincerity, ingenuousness, and self-denying principles of the Gospel of Christ. Some think that these words have a more extensive signification, and that they apply to all who have not true religion, and faith in our Lord Jesus Christ; every work of such persons being sinful in the sight of a holy God, because it does not proceed from a pure motive. On this ground our Church says, Art. xiii, "Works done before the grace of Christ and the inspiration of his Spirit are not pleasant to God, forasmuch as they are not of faith in Jesus Christ; yes, for that they are not done as God hath willed and commanded them to be done, we doubt not but they have the nature of sin." To this we may add, that without faith it is impossible to please God; every thing is wrong where this principle is wanting. There are few readers who have not remarked that the last three verses of this epistle (Rom 16:25-27) appear to stand in their present place without any obvious connection; and apparently after the epistle is concluded. And it is well known to critics, that two MSS. in uncial letters, the Cod. A and I, with upwards of 100 others, together with the Slavonic, the later Syriac and Arabic, add those verses at the end of the fourteenth chapter. The transposition is acknowledged by Cyril, Chrysostom, Theodoret, Oecumenius, Theophylact, Theodulus, Damascenus, and Tertullian; see Wetstein. Griesbach inserts them at the end of this chapter as their proper place; and most learned men approve of this transposition. It may be necessary to repeat the words here that the reader may see with what propriety they connect with the subject which terminates the fourteenth chapter as it now stands. Rom 14:23 : And he that doubteth is condemned if he eat, because he eateth not of faith: for whatsoever is not of faith is sin. Rom 16:25 : Now, to him that is of power to stablish you according to my Gospel, and the preaching of Jesus Christ, (according to the revelation of the mystery which was kept secret since the world began, Rom 16:26 : But now is made manifest, and by the scriptures of the prophets, according to the commandment of the everlasting God, made known to all nations for the obedience of faith); Rom 16:27 : To God only wise be glory through Jesus Christ for ever. Amen. Rom 15:1 : We then that are strong ought to bear the infirmities of the weak, etc. These words certainly connect better with the close of the fourteenth chapter and the beginning of the fifteenth than they do with the conclusion of the sixteenth, where they are now generally found; but I shall defer my observations upon them till I come to that place, with only this remark, that the stablishing mentioned Rom 16:25, corresponds well with the doubting, Rom 14:23, and indeed the whole matter of these verses agrees so well with the subject so largely handled in the preceding chapter, that there can be very little doubt of their being in their proper place if joined to the end of this chapter, as they are in the preceding MSS. and versions.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
And--rather, "But" he that doubteth is damned--On the word "damnation," see on Rom 13:2. if he eat, because he eateth not of faith--On the meaning of "faith" here, see on Rom 14:22. for whatsoever is not of faith is sin--a maxim of unspeakable importance in the Christian life. Note, (1) Some points in Christianity are unessential to Christian fellowship; so that though one may be in error upon them, he is not on that account to be excluded either from the communion of the Church or from the full confidence of those who have more light. This distinction between essential and non-essential truths is denied by some who affect more than ordinary zeal for the honor and truth of God. But they must settle the question with our apostle. (2) Acceptance with God is the only proper criterion of right to Christian fellowship. Whom God receives, men cannot lawfully reject (Rom 14:3-4). (3) As there is much self-pleasing in setting up narrow standards of Christian fellowship, so one of the best preservatives against the temptation to do this will be found in the continual remembrance that CHRIST is the one Object for whom all Christians live, and to whom all Christians die; this will be such a living and exalted bond of union between the strong and the weak as will overshadow all their lesser differences and gradually absorb them (Rom 14:7-9). (4) The consideration of the common judgment-seat at which the strong and the weak shall stand together will be found another preservative against the unlovely disposition to sit in judgment one on another (Rom 14:10-12). (5) How brightly does the supreme Divinity of Christ shine out in this chapter! The exposition itself supersedes further illustration here. (6) Though forbearance be a great Christian duty, indifference to the distinction between truth and error is not thereby encouraged. The former is, by the tax, made an excuse for the latter. But our apostle, while teaching "the strong" to bear with "the weak," repeatedly intimates in this chapter where the truth really lay on the points in question, and takes care to call those who took the wrong side "the weak" (Rom 14:1-2, Rom 14:14). (7) With what holy jealousy ought the purity of the conscience to be guarded, since every deliberate violation of it is incipient perdition (Rom 14:15, Rom 14:20)! Some, who seem to be more jealous for the honor of certain doctrines than for the souls of men, enervate this terrific truth by asking how it bears upon the "perseverance of the saints"; the advocates of that doctrine thinking it necessary to explain away what is meant by "destroying the work of God" (Rom 14:20), and "destroying him for whom Christ died" (Rom 14:15), for fear of the doctrinal consequences of taking it nakedly; while the opponents of that doctrine are ready to ask, How could the apostle have used such language if he had believed that such a catastrophe was impossible? The true answer to both lies in dismissing the question as impertinent. The apostle is enunciating a great and eternal principle in Christian Ethics--that the wilful violation of conscience contains within itself a seed of destruction; or, to express it otherwise, that the total destruction of the work of God in the renewed soul, and, consequently, the loss of that soul for eternity, needs only the carrying out to its full effect of such violation of the conscience. Whether such effects do take place, in point of fact, the apostle gives not the most distant hint here; and therefore that point must be settled elsewhere. But, beyond all doubt, as the position we have laid down is emphatically expressed by the apostle, so the interests of all who call themselves Christians require to be proclaimed and pressed on every suitable occasion. (8) Zeal for comparatively small points of truth is a poor substitute for the substantial and catholic and abiding realities of the Christian life (Rom 14:17-18). (9) "Peace" among the followers of Christ is a blessing too precious to themselves, and, as a testimony to them that are without, too important, to be ruptured for trifles, even though some lesser truths be involved in these (Rom 14:19-20). Nor are those truths themselves disparaged or endangered thereby, but the reverse. (10) Many things which are lawful are not expedient. In the use of any liberty, therefore, our question should be, not simply, Is this lawful? but even if so, Can it be used with safety to a brother's conscience?--How will it affect my brother's soul (Rom 14:21)? It is permitted to no Christian to say with Cain, "Am I my brother's keeper?" (Gen 4:9). (11) Whenever we are in doubt as to a point of duty--where abstinence is manifestly sinless, but compliance not clearly lawful--the safe course is ever to be preferred, for to do otherwise is itself sinful. (12) How exalted and beautiful is the Ethics of Christianity--by a few great principles teaching us how to steer our course amidst practical difficulties, with equal regard to Christian liberty, love, and confidence! Next: Romans Chapter 15
Tyndale Open Study Notes
14:23 If you do anything you believe is not right, you are sinning: God’s word defines sin for us, yet sin also involves violating our conscience. The weak Christians in Rome did not yet believe in their own hearts that they could eat meat, drink wine, or ignore Jewish holy days; their consciences were still weak. They should not violate their consciences on these matters. Nor should the strong, by the power of their example or by their scorn, force weak Christians to do so.