Useful Bible Studies > Romans Commentary > chapter 14
The Christian message is not a matter of private opinions and secret ideas (2 Peter 1:20). It is God’s message to the whole world (Acts 1:8; Romans 1:16). Therefore, Christians should explain the good news about Christ sincerely and honestly (2 Corinthians 4:2). People need to understand clearly the truth about Christ.
However, sometimes Christians show a serious lack of wisdom in both their words and their actions. They know that God gives freedom to his people (Galatians 5:1); however, they use that freedom in a way that upsets and offends people. Perhaps they speak proudly about their freedom; perhaps they act in a foolish manner to show their freedom. They are not acting wisely. Their behaviour may make it difficult or impossible for other people to trust God.
Some of Rome’s Christians wanted everyone to see the freedom that God had given to them. Their belief about that freedom was right, but their actions were wrong.
A Christian does not need to do everything that he has the right to do (1 Corinthians 9:15). The knowledge of his freedom brings him joy in his relationship with God. He thanks God who has been so kind and good to him. He does not need to prove to other people that he has that freedom. His greatest freedom is in his spirit, and nobody else sees that (8:2). He expresses that freedom both in his prayers, and by the way that he allows the Holy Spirit to guide his life (Galatians 5:16). Only God sees these things, but they are real.
Next part: The person who eats in doubt, and not with faith (Romans 14:23)
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