Stronger Together

Stronger Together: Embracing Our Differences in Christ

Bible Passage: Romans 14:13–23

Summary: Paul's discourse in Romans 14 emphasizes that the differences in personal convictions regarding food and special days should not cause division among believers. He implores the church to welcome each other, recognizing that all are servants of the same Lord, and encourages a spirit of mutual acceptance that fosters community despite differing opinions.

Application: This sermon can guide Christians on how to navigate the challenges of differing convictions within the church. It encourages believers to focus on what unites them in Christ rather than what divides them, demonstrating grace and love in all interactions.

Teaching: The teaching from this sermon could center around the importance of unity in diversity. Christians are called to embrace one another's differences with understanding and love, recognizing that varying convictions can coexist within the body of Christ without compromising faith or fellowship.

How this passage could point to Christ: In the context of Scripture, Christ is the ultimate example of acceptance and unity. His sacrifice transcends all divides and invites every believer into a relationship with Him, no matter their backgrounds or differences. The church reflects His body when it honors and welcomes those who think and act differently but share faith in Him.

Big Idea: Diversity in the body of Christ is a source of strength, and we honor God when we love and accept one another despite our differences.

Recommended Study: As you prepare your sermon, it might be valuable to delve into commentaries that address the historic tensions between Jewish and Gentile believers in the early church. Use Logos to research scholarly perspectives on unity in diversity found in Pauline literature, and consider examining related passages that emphasize the theme of acceptance, such as Ephesians 4:1-6, to reinforce the core message.

1. Stop Judging, Start Embracing

Romans 14:13–15 ESV

13 Therefore let us not pass judgment on one another any longer, but rather decide never to put a stumbling block or hindrance in the way of a brother. 14 I know and am persuaded in the Lord Jesus that nothing is unclean in itself, but it is unclean for anyone who thinks it unclean. 15 For if your brother is grieved by what you eat, you are no longer walking in love. By what you eat, do not destroy the one for whom Christ died.

You could delve into how Paul warns against passing judgment on fellow believers over disputable matters such as food. By not judging, we place unity and love above personal opinions. Christ's selfless love guides us in embracing differences without causing harm or destroying another's faith. This point underscores the necessity of seeking peace through understanding and acceptance.

to evaluate — verb. to form a critical opinion of something (either positive or negative) by examination or scrutiny.

2. Seek His Kingdom Values

Romans 14:16–17 ESV

16 So do not let what you regard as good be spoken of as evil. 17 For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking but of righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.

Perhaps explore the essence of the Kingdom of God, which is not based on external observances like food, but on righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit. Here, the call is to emphasize what eternally matters: living in a way that reflects the values of God's Kingdom, fostering communal joy, and unity through shared convictions in Christ.

3. Serve Through Building Up

Romans 14:18–19 ESV

18 Whoever thus serves Christ is acceptable to God and approved by men. 19 So then let us pursue what makes for peace and for mutual upbuilding.

Maybe focus on the paths to serving Christ by promoting peace and mutual edification among believers. Acceptable service in God's sight involves building each other up, not tearing down. Encourage your congregation to actively pursue building a peaceful, united church community that reflects Christ's body.

4. Support Spiritual Growth

Romans 14:20–21 ESV

20 Do not, for the sake of food, destroy the work of God. Everything is indeed clean, but it is wrong for anyone to make another stumble by what he eats. 21 It is good not to eat meat or drink wine or do anything that causes your brother to stumble.

You could highlight how Paul advises against actions that may cause a brother or sister to stumble in their faith. Preferring love over liberty reflects Christ's commitment to others' spiritual well-being. The sermon could emphasize prioritizing others' spiritual growth over personal freedom.

5. Sustain Personal Faithfulness

Romans 14:22–23 ESV

22 The faith that you have, keep between yourself and God. Blessed is the one who has no reason to pass judgment on himself for what he approves. 23 But whoever has doubts is condemned if he eats, because the eating is not from faith. For whatever does not proceed from faith is sin.

Consider discussing how personal convictions are a matter between individuals and God; acting against these can cause sin. Elevate personal faith, recognizing its private and sacred nature, and trusting God to guide the conscience of every believer. This point promotes respecting diverse convictions and urges faithfulness to personal beliefs within the community.