Romans (14) Final Challenge

Paul gives a final challenge to the Jewish Judger in Romans 14.

Therefore, let us not judge one another anymore, but rather determine this—not to put an obstacle or a stumbling block in a brother's way (Rom 14:13).

This is a direct message to the Judger. Stop judging people incorrectly. Rather, think about how to avoid putting stumbling blocks in the way of fellow believers. This reflects Jesus' criticism of the Scribes and Pharisees (Matt 23:2-4). They were using the law to place a burden on people, when they should have been using it to liberate them.

Paul then reiterates his point by saying,

Discover how to build each other. Don't pull down God's work (Romans 14:19-20).

God was at work in Rome building something special. The Jewish Judger was in danger of pulling God's work down.

Getting toward the end of the letter, Paul states God's purpose once again.

The Messiah became a servant... in order to demonstrate the truthfulness of God's promises (Rom 15:8).

The gospel is a revelation of the goodness of God, not of his wrath.

This full series of posts can be found at Reading Romans.