Romans 14
by Philip Layton
Paul urges consideration of others
Discussion Questions
- What had the believers in Corinth been struggling with (vv 1-4)?
- Is there a danger of over-simplifying this teaching?
- What sort of days do you keep special (v 5)? Does it matter on what day the Sabbath is kept (Exodus 20:8)?
- Do you find this chapter liberating?
Share your thoughts below, or tweet about it with the #boundlessbible hashtag. Don't forget this week's Children's Challenge!
Going Deeper From 'Words of Life'
There’s nothing quite like belonging . Growing up, I belonged to a loving family: Mum, Dad, my beautiful elder sister, Barbara. It was wonderful, but having said this I realise that not everyone has such happy family memories. So it’s exciting to know that when we accept Christ as Lord we’re adopted into the family of God. And this means we all belong to Jesus – who loves us like no other:
Jesus my Lord will love me for ever,
From him no power of evil can sever,
He gave his life to ransom my soul,
Now I belong to him.
(Norman Clayton, SASB 349)
Yes, everyone can belong! The homeless, marginalised, those who feel alone – all can have the sense of belonging. No matter what our background, fellowship with God can be a reality:
Once I was lost in sin’s degradation;
Jesus came down to bring me salvation,
Lifted me up from sorrow and shame,
Now I belong to him.
(v 2)
is gospel song speaks of the mystical union that links the believer to
Christ himself. We belong to Jesus; but he also belongs to us. What joy is ours! And so, no matter what we face today, let’s rejoice in the wonderful truth found in belonging to him – now, and for eternity!
Now I belong to Jesus,
Jesus belongs to me,
Not for the years of time alone,
But for eternity.
(refrain)
Beverly Ivany
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