The sacrifice of self

As Paul continues the practical outworking of our Christian faith he address an issue that is not just fixed to the first century church, but a problem that has seen damage in the church in every generation. Paul addresses the human problem of judging. In the context of chapter 14 of Romans, Paul is telling the church then and now that there is no place for judging in the fellowship of believers. He makes this clear in a number of verses that conclude each time by taking us to God’s perspective. It is God alone who is judge and as judge he sees us through his son Jesus because our faith is in him for our salvation.

Rather than judging, Paul takes us in the second half of the chapter to consider how we can build each other up. Once again, this doesn’t come without a challenge as Paul warns us that our freedom to do certain things can cause another to stumble. We are to be a church that speaks well of Jesus as we live well for him together. We are to think of others before ourselves and live Biblically as Paul directs us.

Romans - The heart of the Gospel is a teaching series from Annalong Presbyterian Church. Find out more at www.annalongpc.org/sermons.