DO NOT CAUSE SOMEONE TO STUMBLE

Proclamation:

“It is better not to eat meat or drink wine or do anything else that will cause your brother or sister to fall.  So whatever you believe about these things keep them between yourself and God.  Blessed is the one who does not condemn himself by what he approves.” Romans 14:21-22 (NIV)

Explanation:

These are The Holy Spirit inspired words of the Apostle Paul which were written in a letter to the believers in Rome.  In a discussion regarding new and seasoned believers, ones weak in the faith versus one who is strong, they were not to judge their weaker brothers. (Romans 14:10-13)  Paul said that they should not eat meat around the less knowledgeable brothers who believe meat to be unclean. (Romans 14:15-16)   His point was that the kingdom of God is not concerned about their eating or drinking but it is concerned abut righteousness and peace. (Romans 14:17)

Application:

We should be extremely careful regarding our behavior around new believers.  We should teach them what The Word of God says when we have the opportunity.  However, it is important that babes in Christ not see senior believers engaged in non-Christian behavior.  It is important that we avoid doing evil in front of them so as not to destroy their new weak faith.  It is also important that we avoid even the appearance of evil as this may also cause them to fall back into sin. (1 Thessalonians 5:22)  In the minds of most people, perception is the same as reality.  As believers we are to make every effort to do things which lead to peace and to the edification of others.   We help them by letting them see The Christ in us.  Our lives and behavior are the only “bible” that some people will ever read.  We do not want to cause someone weak in the faith to stumble and fall away from Christ and into sin.  If they truly believe that their behavior is glorifying God, and there is nothing sinful in their behavior, we are not to judge them. (Roman 14:10-13)  If we can’t teach them what The Bible says, then we should not argue with them and destroy their weak new-found faith.