BibleProject | One Story That Leads to JesusSample

It’s time to talk about the elephant in the room.

Reading through Romans so far, we can feel ethnic tension between the churches, so we know conflict is lurking uncomfortably in the background. Paul’s writing so far shows him to be obviously opposed to such division, because relational hostility and division are antithetical to Jesus’ Gospel.

Nearing the end of his letter, Paul finally tackles these tensions head-on. (Because of his clarifications here, some scholars suggest reading Roman backwards to better understand what’s happening up front.)

Today, we see an ancient culture war. Church people were taking sides over who was right about Sabbath requirements (see Rom. 14:2-3, 5-6). Some say Sabbath breakers are bad. Others say they’re not. Paul tells everyone to trust some wisdom.

First, let’s navigate our differences with integrity and love. Some are wrong, others half-wrong. Everyone is a little right. So proceed like Jesus, who was wise and patient.

Before this, Paul boldly confirmed that Torah observance never makes a person right before God (Rom. 1-4). That doesn’t mean Jewish believers should invite the family over for pulled pork. Doing so would unnecessarily violate the conscience of many.

Let people follow their conscience before God as they learn, Paul says. If a person sees goodness in observing Jewish food laws, give them the freedom to follow their conscience. The primary goal is to remain united in the love of Jesus, not to prioritize some cultural or religious practices over others.

This loving flexibility shows up in attitude and action. If you don’t observe food regulations, do not look down on those who do. And be kind—don’t eat pork in the company of neighbors who avoid it. Be wise, says Paul. Your guide is Jesus’ law of love.

Healthy families squabble. They must sometimes name the elephants in the room. With patience and wisdom, they can gather as one and know that their common bond in Christ is greater than their differences.

Reflection Questions

• Meditate on Romans 15:1-7. According to Paul, on what foundation does the church build its (often challenging) project of unity and other-serving love?
• Take a moment to reflect on Paul’s overall argument in his letter to the Roman church. How does Paul’s practical advice about Jewish food laws and holy days fit into his discussion of God’s plan to create a multiethnic family of covenant partners?