RomansSample

Romans 14
Grace Over Grievances

In a world that thrives on division, the church is called to something different. Romans 14 gives us a roadmap for how to live with gospel unity, even when our convictions differ.

Paul doesn’t ignore the tension. Some believers in Rome were still observing Jewish food laws and holy days. Others saw those customs as unnecessary under the freedom found in Christ. Both sides thought they were right. But instead of picking a winner, Paul redirects their attention: “None of us lives for ourselves alone, and none of us dies for ourselves alone. If we live, we live for the Lord” (v. 7–8).

This isn’t just about personal preference—it’s about responsibility. Our freedom must never come at the cost of someone else’s faith. Paul’s advice is pointed: If your actions make someone else stumble, it’s not worth it. Lay it down. That doesn’t mean you compromise truth—it means you elevate love.

“The Kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit” (v. 17). When the little things become the big things, we lose sight of what matters most. Are we promoting peace? Are we building one another up? Are we making space for grace?

This kind of unity doesn’t mean we avoid every disagreement. But it does mean we handle them with humility. It means we place the relationship above being right. And we carry ourselves in such a way that others feel safe, seen, and valued—even when they don’t share our views.

That’s what Jesus did. “Welcome one another, just as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God” (15:7). He brought together Jews and Gentiles, the devout and the doubters, the rule-keepers and the rule-breakers. In Christ, we’ve been made into a new family. And now we’re called to extend that same welcome to others.

Unity like this isn’t natural. It’s supernatural. It requires a gospel lens—a willingness to surrender pride, walk in love, and let the Spirit shape our hearts.