Romans 14:1-12

Sermon

Questions

Our faith in Christ changes the way we live in light of the gospel. It affects how we treat others. This includes other believers.

Let’s get to know each other a little more, though, first before we dig in.

(leader, ill give you the freedom to choose here)

Either go around and ask:

Hidden talent and let them show it

Dream job or future plans after school

older kids-do they obey the speed limit and why

what was the last fight you had with a sibling?

Or any other interesting tid bit that you come up with.

(take a few minutes during these ice breakers. I know the tendency is to get right to the questions, but get to know the students!)

Further reading for tonight is James 4:11-12

James 4:11–12 ESV

11 Do not speak evil against one another, brothers. The one who speaks against a brother or judges his brother, speaks evil against the law and judges the law. But if you judge the law, you are not a doer of the law but a judge. 12 There is only one lawgiver and judge, he who is able to save and to destroy. But who are you to judge your neighbor?

Is it better to be outspoken and opinionated on issues or quiet? Why?

Let’s dig into verse 1. The assumption that many scholars make is that the weak ones in verse one are the conservative christians (probably also Jewish) that still want to follow Jewish dietary laws and calendar laws. The strong ones were the ones that live with more “freedom” from such things.

Should we accept people into our church membership that have different views or opinions on biblical issues?

How can we love but also talk/conversate with these people without being harsh or “quarreling over opinions”?

In verse 2, do you think Paul is being too harsh on the “weak” ones that feel like they need these laws?

Having beliefs and convictions is serious and very important.. (you may have to explain a hill to do on-ask Casey if you are unsure)

How important is it to “die on the hills that we fight?”

How do we determine if a “hill” is worth dying on?

Verse 7 and 8 reveal that we do not belong to our self, but to the Lord. It does this in a very serious way (life and death). How does this effect our daily life or how should it?

Distinction about judgement - judgement that examines, discerns, and helps us love others is biblical. Unbiblical judgement is placing a standard on others that God doesn’t hold us to.

How can we help hold our brothers and sisters accountable in love without holding them to a different standard than what God puts on us? (dig in here for real world answers, not just “jesus” type answers)

How does verse 12 effect the way you interact with those around you?

How can you speak “truth in love” to those around you?