Rebuke Legalism

by Ricardo
close up photo of wooden gavel

Romans 14:8 
For if we live, we live to the Lord; and if we die, we die to the Lord. Therefore, whether we live or die, we are the Lord’s. 

Application: 

Romans 14:6–9 It’s uncomfortable for people at different levels of faith and maturity to coexist without judging each other on matters of preference. Paul gives us both a reason to respect others’ freedom and a motivation: you aren’t their master. 

In these verses, the phrase “for the Lord” appears seven times. If a brother eats, let him eat for the Lord (14:6). If he doesn’t, let him not eat for the Lord. If he celebrates a day, he does it for the Lord; if not, he’s still doing it for the Lord. If he lives or dies, he’s doing it for the Lord—not for you (14:7–8). Many of our churches are drowning in legalism, and we’re putting a leash around the necks of other Christians with our manmade preferences. Moreover, we’re keeping rules for Brother Tom or Sister Dana! We’ve got to stop trying to please each other and focus on pleasing the one who died and returned to life for this: that he might be Lord over both the dead and the living (14:9). 

The test of whether you should indulge in some amoral pleasure is whether you can give thanks to God for the enjoyment you are getting out of it.

Reference: Tony Evans, The Tony Evans Bible Commentary (Nashville, TN: Holman Bible Publishers, 2019), 1140.

To God be the glory!

Our Lord Jesus Christ created everything! By Him, For Him!

“The Lord bless you and keep you; The Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; The Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.” Numbers 6:24-26

Disclaimer

When God inspires me, I write or post articles that glorify God. I invite you to view this post as a Bible study. Like the Bereans in Acts 17:11, I encourage you to search the Scriptures to determine whether what I have posted is true. Always consult your church ministers regarding biblical matters. I am not a professional writer, so there may be grammatical or spelling errors. I strive to write as clearly and efficiently as possible. My prayer is that this message will inspire you to seek the Lord with all your heart and bring glory to His Holy name. Your brother in Christ, Ricardo.


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