Romans 15:1-13
Typically a
strong person is thought to be one who is independent and self-sufficient, but
Paul describes the strong Christian as one who subordinates his own preferences
to the needs of those who are weaker in faith. The privilege of freedom comes
with obligations. The key word here is "edify." The strong are to
make concessions, but not simply for the convenience of the weak or even for
peace in the fellowship. The strong are to bear the burdens of others so that
eventually the others can leave the burdens behind. If strong Christians act so
that others grow in spiritual understanding, then soon the concessions become
unnecessary.
As our example,
Christ showed patient sympathy for the limitations of others. But beyond a
pattern of obedience, Christ also provides the power to conform to
righteousness. In support of this dramatic conclusion, Paul quotes Old
Testament psalms and prophets who were writing about the nature of God in
anticipation of the fulfillment of the law through the Christ.
In the book of
Romans, Paul describes the vast difference that the gospel makes in our outlook
on life. We are not bound by what is humanly possible. We have more than our
present experience. God works creatively through us, and the gifts from God are
things that we are not likely to get any other way.
Verse 13
concludes this section with a benediction blessing that sums up the new life in
Christ. "May the God of hope fill
you with all joy and peace in believing, so that you may abound in hope by the
power of the Holy Spirit."
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