A Celebration of Grace: Heeding the Wisdom in Isaiah 5

If you’ve ever cracked open Isaiah 5, you may have noticed that it shows a celebration taking place—but one that is godless, and void of remembrance for all the Lord has done. And it’s a problem.

In this portion of Scripture, Israel is being judged for the way they have totally neglected the loving care of the Lord, and have gone their own way. Rejecting not only the ways of the Lord, but the acknowledgement of his faithful provision.

This passage of God’s Word (Isaiah 5:1-3) opens with a beautiful metaphor regarding God and his people—God is like the creator of a vineyard who has provided everything his vines need to grow and thrive. They have fertile soil that has been cleared of stones and weeds, it is overlooked by a watchtower and is even equipped with a winepress to help the grapes of the vine create fruitful products.

This lovely metaphor take a turn however, when God comes to check out his vineyard and finds only rotten fruit where good fruit was intended to grow. (Isaiah 5:4) This fruitless vineyard represented Israel—God’s beloved nation—at the time, and while we are shielded from the wrath they were delivered due to the extravagant sacrifice of Jesus Christ, there is still a lesson for us today as we consider the heart of God and what he longs to see in our lives.

Because you see, as this interesting chapter leads on, God describes what these fruitless individuals were actually partaking in; we get a glimpse into what this rotten living looked like practically, and what’s there might surprise you…

There is a picture painted of a people who are swept up in celebration. Now, this word “celebration” has a beautiful connotation to it, doesn’t it? I imagine party balloons, laughter, and joy. And yet, when Israel’s revelry is described here, there is a distinction to their celebration that moves it from the category of joyful and good to arrogantly unrighteous.

Ready for the kicker? Enter verse 12:

“They have harps and lyres at their banquets, pipes and timbrels and wine, but they have no regard for the deeds of the Lord, no respect for the work of his hands.” Isaiah 5:12 NIV

Compare that to Psalm 103, Psalm 104, or Psalm 150—powerful, punchy works of art that mention timbrels, dancing, and even wine—but do so in a way that points to the maker of every good thing, with God proclaimed as the true source of blessing. God is worshiped in these Scriptures for the work of his hands, and his loving deeds to mankind.

And while I will spare you—for this moment—the gruesome descriptions of what follows in Isaiah 5 for the ones who spurned God’s Word and neglected to turn to him, I will say this: for as much as there is a problem with ignoring God’s gracious provision, there is a beauty to each and every thing we do as believers to remember the love of the Lord.

Coming through this passage and reflecting on the value of remembrance has filtered into the most obscure moments of my days and colored them with meaning and significance. And I believe it can do the same for you, too! Let me explain…

My family and I say a prayer of gratitude before each meal. Maybe you do, too? And while I always saw some value in this, after reading this chapter of Isaiah, I realized that the intention of coming before God before every meal is precious in his sight.

It really matters to God—not just that we have what we need—but that we acknowledge it as coming from him.

There is another area this beauty sept into my heart and colored purpose and meaning into something that otherwise felt semi-valuable but at times, trite: my work as an artist.

You see, I’ve used the tagline “a celebration of grace” for a long time, and while I knew what that meant to my heart, there was something about this Isaiah 5 passage and my time with the Lord in it that revealed to me a piece of God’s heart.

Because this is what it comes down to: a flower isn’t just a flower. Just like a meal at the table with your kids isn’t just a meal. It matters where you set your intention when you take in a piece of what the Lord has made or provided.

Some might look at a flower and say, “hey, that’s pretty,” but never acknowledge God’s grace and love in forming something so delicate, fragrant and beautiful for mankind to enjoy.

Or they might gloss over Genesis 2:9 which states that, in God’s creation, some elements are made for practical purposes and some are made to be pleasing to the eye.

The beauty we see in creation is evidence of God’s grace and his loving generosity to create things that simply quicken our hearts or delight us. And may we always behold these gifts for what they are: provisions from our loving creator.

So then, if I may circle back to this tagline, “a celebration of grace”, I hope it’s a phrase that can move beyond my shop and into the hearts of believers in all circumstances, by which they are able to see the Lord’s goodness touching down in their lives in tangible ways.

May our lives and homes be filled with tools and rhythms for remembrance of our loving and gracious God.

May we not be like the Israel of Isaiah 5—who parties hard with a complete disregard for who God is, what he desires, and all he provides—but may we be consecrated celebrators, honoring the Lord in all we do and receiving each and every gift with gratitude, letting the love of our Maker wash over us with every sunset, every delicious meal, and—you guessed it—every. single. flower.

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I hope you enjoyed this writing and that it opened the eyes of your heart to the goodness of the Lord and his gracious provision! Check out my shop for artwork for your home intended to spur remembrance of who the Lord is and his benevolent grace. Or, if there is a specific way God’s kindness has shined down on you and your family, consider the investment in a piece of Ebenezer Artwork—custom works that capture your story with God and will live in your home as a steady reminder of His unfailing love and faithfulness.

All Things New: God’s Restoration of Us

He who was seated on the throne said, “I am making everything new!” Then he said, “Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true.”

—Revelation 21:5 NIV

I have some friends who live in a home built early in the 1900s and it is so charming; the beauty and value in this home is undeniable with its ornately-crowned moulding, thoughtful architecture, and delicate details.

As my friends dream about how to make this home more functional for their 21st century lives, a lot of thought has been put into what they can do to restore the home, while maintaining the many distinct features which make it so special and unique.


As we discussed their plans for remodeling, one of them said something that has been ringing in my ears even since:

“Restoration is way more difficult than remodeling…”

He gestured towards a piece of beveled trim in the doorway and continued,

“When you restore something, you can’t just tear into it. You have to be careful to keep the parts you want to salvage in-tact.”

Remodeling ruins or replaces things. Restoration brings them back to life.

What an interesting process—this restoration business. So intentional, so careful, so measured.

And honestly, it reminds me so much of God’s process with us.

Before we were born, God envisioned us. Psalm 139:16 tells us that God saw our unformed bodies. Like an architect pictures what he wants to create before he lays his plans, so God saw us. Before we even existed. He scripted our days with his goodness.

Your eyes saw my unformed body; all the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be. Psalm 139:16

And yet, with every beautiful narrative, there is a deviant villain. In our case, the villain is a triple threat: the world, the flesh, and the devil—which seek to wreak havoc on God’s beautiful creation, including us.

Sin can leave us tarnished and marred—like a home on the verge of demolition.

And yet, when we were as good as a “tear down project”, God looked at us and saw beauty in need of saving. He chose restoration. (Romans 5:8, John 3:17)

And he will continue the good work he began until the very end. (Philippians 1:6)

So then, if every narrative has a villain, let us remember that every good story has a victor who wins the day. Our victor is our Lord—our Savior—Jesus Christ.

The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. 1 Corinthians 15:56-57 NIV

So then, in this narrative of all we are—and all we were destined to be, sin seeks to tear us apart, but the Lord seeks to restore all that’s broken as we cooperate with his Spirit and allow sanctification to come in, to wash us clean, and to recuperate isn’t working.

He has begun a restoration project in us. And this, my friends, is so much better than a remodel.

Because when he’s finished, we will be fully and truly the selves he designed us to be. Restored as he intended us to be before sin came in and made its mess.

We won’t be remodeled to look like every cookie-cutter on the block, but rather we will be gleaming with the craftsmanship of an intentional maker—one who specializes in one-of-a-kind creations. And that is what we are!

The Bible describes us as God’s handiwork. (Also translated as masterpiece or poetry.)

For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. Ephesians 2:10 NIV

Not only did he make us on purpose, but he created good works for us to accomplish in Christ Jesus. So when we consider the work God wants to do in our lives, let us remember that the process isn’t going to look just like the person next to us. Because the finished product was never meant to be exactly the same.

We will all be transformed into the image of Christ in holiness and conduct—but when it comes to particular callings and causes, there is endless variety.

He crafted us as he wanted us to be. He knit us together with nuance—before we even took our first breath.

For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. Psalm 139:13 NIV

He isn’t here to do away with the very special creation he began, but on the contrary, he is here to take note of each and every way sin has marred and tarnished our good nature, in order that he might carefully sanctify us and restore us into who he created us to be.

May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. The one who calls you is faithful, and he will do it. 1 Thessalonians 5:23-24 NIV

The beautiful thing—is that we get to cooperate with the Spirit of God in this beautiful restoration project. As we throw off sin and keep our gaze fixed on Jesus, we can run the race marked out for us.

See it here in Hebrews 12:1-2:

Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.

Fixing our eyes on Jesus isn’t an arbitrary act, but an active, fruitful pursuit.

Bottom line, there are two things I hope you walk away with today:

1. Jesus loves you. And God made you with intention.

2. You can trust him to restore the broken pieces. (You know—those parts of yourself that you know just aren’t quite operating the way they ought to be.) Lean into God, fix your gaze on Jesus, and allow the Spirit to have his way in your life.

He doesn’t want to break all those beautiful pieces of you he placed there on purpose; he wants to restore you in a way that helps you live into the fullness of all you were created to be.

He doesn’t want to wreck you; he wants to recuperate you!

Take his hand, and step forward with him. Not looking to the right or the left for your calling—but looking directly at your Maker. He is the the only one who fully knows all you were intended to be.

Press into truth, rest in his love, and let his Holy Spirit be your guide. (2 Timothy 3:16-17, Matthew 11:28-30, Galatians 5:25)

Since we are living by the Spirit, let us follow the Spirit’s leading in every part of our lives. Galatians 5:25 NLT

May we allow him to do all he intends in us—moving forward with his restorative work in a way that only he can—as we step forward to do the good he has called us to do. For the glory of his name and for the good of his Kingdom.

This is the very same Kingdom in which God himself will make all things new—forever. May we move steadfastly through all he invites us into, knowing restoration is well underway.

Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal. 2 Corinthians 4:16-18

Bless you, friend!

Truth Cards for Kids: A New Resource

ABOUT THE CARDS

Walk children ages 3-12 through a year of simple, beautiful truths as they learn to love the Lord with all of their heart, soul, mind, and strength.

These botanically-designed cards contain sweet, encouraging truths in language that is basic and concrete enough for a toddler—with scripture memory and cross-references to hold the attention of older studiers. Pretty enough for moms to want to keep them on their counter, and simple enough to cover over breakfast or while moseying through a pickup line.

The front of each card contains a key truth, a memory verse, and a cross-reference to explore. The back of the card has the first letter of each word in the memory verse, to aid memorization.

Note: These truths proclaim what is true for the believer. I.e. Our sins are forgiven. -or- We are God’s child. These beautiful truths specially regard us in Christ

HOW TO USE

These cards are functional for all ages. For those looking for additional guidance, below are some suggestions for how to encourage your children with these cards.

(I find that the more I personally soak up God’s love and truth, the more organically I am able to share it with my children. Consider how each truth directly impacts your own heart, or ask God to show you it’s beauty… let this set the stage for drawing your children into the love of Christ.)

• For littles ages 3-4, focus on the key truth. Keep it simple, and fun!

  • Monday-Friday: Go through the key truth.

• For kiddos ages 5-8, focus on the key truth, along with the memory verse. Be sure to define advanced vocabulary beforehand. If you choose to do the cross-references, spend time together reading and discussing the scripture’s connection to the key truth.

  • Monday-Tuesday: Go through through the key truth.

  • Wednesday-Thursday: Review truth. Go through memory verse.

  • Friday (optional): Go through the cross-reference together.

• For children ages 9 and up, focus on the key truth, along with the memory verse, and encourage them to explore the cross-references. Make connections together about how it relates to the key truth, giving them opportunities to think critically.

  • Monday-Tuesday: Go through through the key truth.

  • Wednesday-Thursday: Review truth. Memorize the scripture verse.

  • Friday: Have your child explore the cross-reference and share any connections.

THE FOUR CATEGORIES

This deck of beautiful, textured cards contains 52 beautiful and encouraging truths for kids broken into four categories:

• HEART: the heart of the Gospel, God’s love for us, and our identity as his children

• SOUL: matters of faith that sustain our souls in both dry and abundant seasons

• MIND: practical wisdom to shape our minds as we aim to operate in the way of Jesus

• STRENGTH: actionable steps that characterize christians in their conduct

Children will begin by internalize key truths about the God who loves them, and the Savior that gave his life for them. For us in Christ, our identity as God’s children influences the way we approach life. And our understanding of his extravagant grace can have a weighty impact on one’s interest to orient our lives around his wisdom and precepts. For this reason, we begin with the heart.

For matters of the soul, it’s important to remember that so much of our lives of faith are driven by belief rather than what we can see with our own eyes. It’s crucial for children (and adults alike) to understand how we can have faith in solid Biblical Truths even when life circumstances waver and sway. Your children will learn how to pray when things get hard, and trust God’s character is good even when challenges arise. May each of our little (and big!) ones remain steadfast in faith, knowing that it’s by our faith that our souls are held securely for eternity.

Addressing our minds is crucial when it comes to moving from faith to action. Many actions begin internally as we form credences regarding the nature of this world and how we are to operate in it. May we heed the words of Proverbs 4:6:

“Do not forsake wisdom, and she will protect you;
    love her, and she will watch over you.” Proverbs 4:6 NIV

In regards to our children, there are so many incredible proverbs and wise precepts in the Bible that can help them to practically grow in understanding from a Biblical perspective. Broken down into the simplest of language, there is applicable truth for even the littlest ones to help their minds grow and flourish as God’s beloved.

Finally, the extravagant love of Jesus—washing over us, transforming us—was always meant to be an overflow into the world around us. It’s said so wonderfully in 1 John 3:18:

Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth. 1 John 3:18 NIV

So much of our instructions as New Covenant believers operating in our Christian walk boils down to these two commands: love God and love others. We trust God and his order—the way he has orchestrated things to operate smoothly and well—and we extend his beautiful grace to the world around us, living benevolently as we choose to act for the good of others. May we walk in humility, Christlikeness, compassion, and care as we use the strength of our bodies for the sake of the kingdom.

HOPES AND BLESSINGS

Overall, I pray that this new resource helps your children to walk out Mark 12:30, in which Jesus instructs this:

Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength. Mark 12:30 NIV

Blessings on you around your breakfast tables, sitting in the pickup lines, and any other places you choose to break out these adorable cards to instruct your children in the steadfast love of God.

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Grab yours here:

PRO TIP: These cards store (or display) beautifully in a business card holder. You might like to try this one, or this one.

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Grab this perfect vintage stand for your truth cards!

Purified by the Light: Thoughts on Confession and Sanctification

I’ve been obsessed with this theme of purification lately.

On the surface level, there are some areas in our home I have concerns regarding mold and air quality, and I know the only way to address potential issues is to identify and diagnose the source.

At a deeper, more personal level, there are some areas of my soul that have been exposed—some underlying ways I’m operating in brokenness that I know the Lord has revealed so that I can walk in a way that is more whole and healed with him.

From my house to my heart, this idea of wanting things to be purified has been thematic. Which is why when I opened up 1 John 1 this morning, a few verses jumped right off the page:

This is the message we have heard from him and declare to you: God is light; in him there is no darkness at all. If we claim to have fellowship with him and yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not live out the truth. But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin. 1 John 1:5-7 NIV

As I considered the idea that walking with God means stepping out of the darkness, I was reminded of the way humanity was described in John 3:19-20:

This is the verdict: Light has come into the world, but people loved darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil. Everyone who does evil hates the light, and will not come into the light for fear that their deeds will be exposed. John 3:19-20 NIV

What’s particularly interesting about this passage in that it comes right after the famous John 3:16 which tells us that God’s love propelled him to send Jesus, as our messiah, into the world. That the role of Jesus wasn’t to condemn us for our sin, but to save us from it.

This means that our sin problem is taken care of so-to-speak before we even own up to it. The idea of condemnation isn’t hanging over our heads when we are given the choice of admitting our sins or denying them. All that hangs in the balance is if we want to make the choice to acknowledge it, or not.

Do we want to bring the dirtiness of our sin into the light, or not.

Acknowledging our sins means dying to our pride with the proclamation that we are in dyer need of saving. And when we do this, God is faithful to finish the task of purifying us.

If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. 1 John 1:9

Reading verses like the ones mentioned in 1 John 1:5-7, about living in the light and finding God’s purification, can have one searching their own hearts, asking the Lord to reveal the areas that need to be purified. He is so faithful to do this.

Psalm 139:23-24 comes to mind on the matter. In it, the psalmist pleas that God would search his heart and mind in order to keep him continuing in God’s everlasting way:

Search me, God, and know my heart;
    test me and know my anxious thoughts.
See if there is any offensive way in me,
    and lead me in the way everlasting. Psalm 129:23-24 NIV

As I took a peek at this Scripture, something stuck out to me regarding the value of our trials in this process of purification we undergo as Christ’s beloved: periods of testing expose our anxious thoughts.

Said another way, the difficulties or trials we undergo shine light on deeply-rooted ways of thinking that God wants to go in and purify us from.

1 Peter 1:7 describes our faith being tested through the refining process.

 These have come so that the proven genuineness of your faith—of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire—may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed. 1 Peter 1:7

James 1:2-4 says this about our trials adding to our maturity and completeness:

Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. James 1:2-4 NIV

There is a humility required for the sanctifying—purifying—work that God wants to do in us. We mustn’t try to hide our sins or anxious thoughts, but allow them to be revealed. We must bring the fullness of all we are carrying with us into the light, in full confession, as we trust him to be the faithful, good, and righteous God he is.

He is the one who has allowed the blood of his Son to wash over us and cover our every misstep and doubt.

If only we might step into his light and fully receive the gift of his sanctifying presence.

May we be fully his today, and may we walk in his light with humility, not veering away from the ugly parts of ourselves or the sin habits we struggle to stray from. Rather, may we bring all that we are into the light of his love, knowing that we are his people.

But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light. 1 Peter 2:9 NIV

We are his beloved children, whom he wants to purify and make whole—to the praise of his glory. May you walk in the light today, my friend!

Beauty in the Book: Romans 16

Themes

Through warm personal greetings and somber exhortations, see the incredible value of connection in the body of Christ. Explore themes of Christian service, holy wisdom, and blessed unity in this final chapter of Romans.

Questions

This chapter addresses the following questions:

• How can a variety of roles impact the body of Christ?

• What should we do when division starts showing up in the church?

• How has God’s eternal wisdom been revealed in the Gospel (as available to the Gentiles)?

Moving Forward

This writing will break down the chapter section-by-section, offering commentary for your reflection. Don’t miss the ending titled Beauty in the Book where it all gets wrapped up in a bow—highlighting how every chapter is woven with uplifting realities of God’s goodness and grace.

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Romans 16:1-16

Here, Paul sends his greetings to a variety of people, honoring many for the work they have done and continue to do. He brings 1 Thessalonians 5:12-13 to life, in which he encourages the church to highly regard those who offer spiritual support:

Now we ask you, brothers and sisters, to acknowledge those who work hard among you, who care for you in the Lord and who admonish you. Hold them in the highest regard in love because of their work… 1 Thessalonians 5:12-13 NIV

From Priscilla and Aquila (verse 3) who risked their lives for Paul’s sake, to Urbanus (verse 9) who was a co-worker in the cause of Christ, to Tryphena and Tryphosa (verse 12) who were hardworking servants of the Lord—all these folks and more were in partnership for the sake of the gospel and contributed to this beautiful expression of the church at work, with its many parts.

Beyond working together as the hands and feet of Jesus, we see the heart of a family interwoven amongst all of these people. It reminds me of a passage from Psalm 68:

God sets the lonely in families,
    he leads out the prisoners with singing;
    but the rebellious live in a sun-scorched land. Psalm 68:6 NIV

There is such a contrast between those who yield to God’s ways and those who don’t. Like someone off in a desert—in a sun-scorched, lonely, and barren land—the one who rebels against God is choosing a life void of his provision and protection.

As the psalm goes on, we see that God refreshes his people out of his abundance. (Psalm 68:9-10) There is goodness poured out from the heart of God for those who choose to put themselves under the umbrella of his faithful care. And for those who don’t, they exile themselves to the loneliest places (though no one is ever too far gone to come back home).

For those who turn to him, God rescues the lonely and nestles them into the loving arms of his church. This concept of the church being family is not a new one, but it is sprinkled throughout Scripture as we become sons and daughters of the living God, and brothers and sisters of Christ himself. Hebrews 2 touches on this concept of family:

Both the one who makes people holy and those who are made holy are of the same family. So Jesus is not ashamed to call them brothers and sisters. He says, “I will declare your name to my brothers and sisters; in the assembly I will sing your praises.” And again,“I will put my trust in him.” And again he says, “Here am I, and the children God has given me.” Hebrews 2:11-13 NIV

To circle back to Romans 16, we see Paul describe a man named Rufus (verse 13) whose own mother became like a mother to Paul. That’s sweet.

In verse 14, we see Paul address a group of people (Asyncritus, Phlegon, Herbes, Patrobas, and Hermas) and the “brothers” with them. The word used here for brothers is lovely for its vagueness. It’s the greek word, adelphos (ἀδελφός) which is used interchangeably to describe actual blood-brothers, fellow persons, or other believers in Christ.

Either way you swing it, we note a special camaraderie Paul had with these people that emulated family appeal—the beautiful interconnectedness of the body of Christ.

Romans 16:17-18

Paul soberly warns the church in Rome to be on guard for the ones who seek to bring division or other obstacles that keep them from holding fast to the truth of which they were taught.

This man had strong words for the one who was trying to derail the church from holding fast to the Good Gospel in the book of Galatians. Take a deep breath and check this out:

I am astonished that you are so quickly deserting the one who called you to live in the grace of Christ and are turning to a different gospel—which is really no gospel at all. Evidently some people are throwing you into confusion and are trying to pervert the gospel of Christ. But even if we or an angel from heaven should preach a gospel other than the one we preached to you, let them be under God’s curse! As we have already said, so now I say again: If anybody is preaching to you a gospel other than what you accepted, let them be under God’s curse! Galatians 1:6-9 NIV

I love the line that says anyone who turns to a “different gospel” is really turning to that which isn’t a gospel at all. It is Christ alone by which we are saved; he is the good news and only rescue point for humanity. Neglecting his lifeline isn’t to simply choose another means of salvation, but to choose death by the sea of our own sin.

Because Jesus is the one way, we can find unity in the church. All else under him is secondary in nature, because he is the only way God provided to be in restored relationship.

As Jesus told his disciples in John 14:6, he’s it. He is the one way to God:

Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. John 14:6 NIV

If people are to present an “alternative gospel” (which is really no gospel at all), it’s worth considering the why. Why would they do this?

Paul offers an answer to this question in Romans 16:18: anyone who isn’t aiming to live in the truth of Christ is seeking to serve their own appetite in some way.

Whether they are wanting to serve the appetite of their own unholy desires by refusing to yield to the ways of Christ, or whether they are attempting to serve the appetite of their own pride by puffing themselves up with idle notions of self-righteousness, the fact is that they are serving themselves, and when they bring these destructive ideas to naive minds, members of the church can become tangled in their webs of deception.

Paul encourages the church in Rome to run fast in the opposite direction. In verse 17 he says to watch out for the ones bringing division and to keep away.

We aren’t to handle sin haphazardly, but are encouraged to flee. Don’t walk, run.

We see it in 2 Timothy 2:22:

Flee the evil desires of youth, and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace, along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart. 2 Timothy 2:22

In 2 Timothy, did you catch the piece about pursuing righteousness along with others who are calling on the Lord? If you’re in a place where you are wanting to flee from evil and embrace righteousness, travel with others who love Jesus and have made it their lives’ missions to journey with him.

This very passage from Timothy goes on to encourage a person not to have anything to do with foolish and stupid arguments. In other words, just as we saw in Romans 16:17, keep away from that which causes division.

Don't have anything to do with foolish and stupid arguments, because you know they produce quarrels. 2 Timothy 2:23 NIV

When we consider our connections, may we keep watch for those who aim to undermine our faith and our relationships in the church. Rather, may we pursue the righteousness of God—one who loves unity—along with others who are seeking him in truth.

Romans 16:19-20

It would seem that rather than being caught up in all the things that can divide, Paul would rather the church keep their focus elsewhere.

“…be wise about what is good, and innocent about what is evil…” Romans 16:19 NIV

He tells the church that the God of peace will soon crush Satan under their feet. Woah!

The author of division and lies, and of heartache and destruction, will soon be crushed. It’s as if Paul is saying, “Don’t get all worked up by the schemes of the enemy. God is greater and deserves our attention instead.”

That’s my paraphrase, of course… But Paul reminds the church at the end of verse 20 that the grace of Jesus will be with them.

Focus on what’s good. Stay unified. God’s going to crush the devil. Grace remains.

Romans 16:21-24

Paul continues on with a few more greetings, including one to Timothy. Here, he’s called a co-worker, but other times, Paul speaks to him as a son.

In 1 Timothy 1:2, Paul addresses him endearingly:

To Timothy my true son in the faith:

Grace, mercy and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord. 1 Timothy 1:2 NIV

This beautiful dynamic further drives home the interconnectedness of Christ’s church. In these short few verses, we see one who has truly partnered with Paul—as closely as a son—to bring forth the gospel (Timothy, verse21), along with a man who physically served by recording the letter (Tertius, verse 22) and a note to Gaius, who provided enjoyable hospitality (verse 23).

There are so many different roles and responsibilities in the church, and each one has it’s special place. Whether serving with your hands, sharing the gospel, or opening your home, may we all join in the beautiful mission of the church—for the sake of his Name.

Romans 16:25-27

Paul ends this powerful letter with the reminder of the true message of the Gospel. This reality that God has always intended to bring salvation to the Gentiles. That he always wanted their true obedience that comes by faith, and that now is the developing fulfillment of that mission.

This is the ultimate wisdom of God, as we see in Romans 16:27, that Gentiles would be welcomed into the promise of Christ.

God’s wisdom is described well in 1 Corinthians:

For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. For it is written:

“I will destroy the wisdom of the wise;
    the intelligence of the intelligent I will frustrate.”

Where is the wise person? Where is the teacher of the law? Where is the philosopher of this age?Has not God made foolish the wisdom of the world? For since in the wisdom of God the world through its wisdom did not know him, God was pleased through the foolishness of what was preached to save those who believe. Jews demand signs and Greeks look for wisdom, but we preach Christ crucified: a stumbling block to Jews and foolishness to Gentiles, but to those whom God has called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God. For the foolishness of God is wiser than human wisdom, and the weakness of God is stronger than human strength. 1 Corinthians 1:18-25 NIV

God’s wisdom confounds the wise and opens the eyes of the foolish. It’s by his wisdom that the door to salvation has been opened wide in the person of Christ.

Further regarding this mystery, Paul writes this in Ephesians 3:8-11:

Although I am less than the least of all the Lord’s people, this grace was given me: to preach to the Gentiles the boundless riches of Christ, and to make plain to everyone the administration of this mystery, which for ages past was kept hidden in God, who created all things. His intent was that now, through the church, the manifold wisdom of God should be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly realms, according to his eternal purpose that he accomplished in Christ Jesus our Lord. Ephesians 3:8-11 NIV

As we wrap up the book of Romans, may we rest in the steadfast love of God. In his faithfulness and mercy, and his heart to extend salvation to all who believe, in accordance with his perfect wisdom.

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Beauty in the Book

Christ’s church is beautifully interconnected. In this final portion of greetings, warnings, and encouragements, we see the mission of God moved forward through the knit-together family of the everyday church.

From personal greetings to high regards, we can peer in and observe how many different roles and responsibilities shine in the early church. People gave financially, served sacrficially, and worked diligently. And more sentimentally, people stepped in as mothers, brothers, fathers, and sisters, as they beckoned each person to find their place not just in a workspace, but in a home.

God desires his church to be like family. Making sense all-the-more why Paul avidly states the people are to run from division and hold fast to the grace of Christ, trusting God as their protector and provider who will crush Satan once-and-for-all. (Even as he is already defeated in Christ.)

Our loving Father provided for the door to be opened that all might be welcomed into the family of God—jew and Gentile alike—through the person of Jesus. As you enjoy getting a glimpse of the innerworkings of the Christian family of Paul’s time, delight in how the heart of our Heavenly Father flows into our lives (and the world) through his church.

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Beauty in the Book: Romans 15

Themes

Explore themes of unity in the church, evangelistic mission, and gospel partnerships. See how Paul connects with other members of Christ’s body to further the Gospel mission—accomplished by God’s power and for God’s glory.

Questions

This chapter addresses the following questions:

• What should be my motivation for bearing with others in the church?

• What is the benefit of Christian unity?

• When people come to Christ, who deserves the glory, and why?

Moving Forward

This writing will break down the chapter section-by-section, offering commentary for your reflection. Don’t miss the ending titled Beauty in the Book where it all gets wrapped up in a bow—highlighting how every chapter is woven with uplifting realities of God’s goodness and grace.

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Romans 15:1-3

After ending chapter fourteen with an invocation to love one another amidst differences in convictions and opinions within the church, Paul begins with why we are to do so, digging even deeper into the heart of the matter.

We aren’t to love others in order to please ourselves, but to please our Heavenly Father.

If we love others with the intent of puffing ourselves up in religious pride, there is a detriment to the soul of the prideful one. While laying our lives down on behalf of others may add to the peace of the moment, pride of the heart is a sickness that infects churches and individuals if left unchecked.

Thankfully, Paul doesn’t leave this matter unchecked but addresses it at once. He comments on how we are walking in the way of Jesus when we choose to bear with others—not so we can feel extra holy—but so they can be extraordinarily blessed.

We love others for their good, and in doing so, we reflect the steadfast mercies of Christ who gave himself up for our good:

We love because he first loved us. 1 John 4:19 NIV

For it doesn’t matter how impressive we are or how strong our faith is. Or if we have the most incredible knowledge of God’s character or confounding spiritual gifts. We could have life-changing prophetic insight, or a heart generous to give away all that we have. Yet, if we are doing these things for our own sake, and not for the sake of others, we aren’t acting in purity of love.

See what 1 Corinthians says regarding this:

If I speak in the tongues of men or of angels, but do not have love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing. If I give all I possess to the poor and give over my body to hardship that I may boast, but do not have love, I gain nothing. 1 Corinthians 13:1-3

Fun fact for you: in some versions of Scripture—like the King James Version—the word “love” is actually replaced with the word “charity”.

Think about how we use that word in our modern age. As a noun, the word “charity” is often used to describe an event which helps or serves those in need. A “charitable” person is a generous or self-giving person. One who expends their time or resources on behalf of others.

In all these things, there is an others-focused mentality at play. And that’s exactly the implication of the Greek definition for this word. See below:

love/charity, agapē, ἀγάπη:

• affection, good will, love, benevolence, brotherly love (or love feasts)

1 Corinthians goes on to describe what love (or charity) looks like played out. It says this:

Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 NIV

As we can see, the one who is walking in love isn’t walking in prideful and self-seeking behavior, but is rather patiently honoring others, extending mercy along the way.

In regards to our verses from Romans, as we bear with others in the church who may not share the same confidence in Christ—or faith—as we do, may we seek to interact with them in a way that is for their good, not just to make ourselves feel good.

Romans 15:4-5

When it comes to the effort required to extend love in the way that God desires for us and the church, perseverance is needed.

Loving others isn’t an effortless act that comes naturally to someone as soon as they place their faith in Jesus. On the contrary, loving others requires the continual choice to spend ourselves on behalf of others, as Christ calls us to.

In this way, we are following him and taking up our own cross. Choosing obedience to the Father and laying down our lives for those around us.

This does not mean mindless people-pleasing or yielding to the most demanding and unhealthy voices in our lives, which could suck us dry in an instant. On the contrary, it means yielding to the form-fitting yoke of Christ, moving through life with the question continually in our mind of, “How could I please Jesus right now, trusting he wants good for those around me?”

(I talk more about this in the free resource, Cultivating Quiet. Download here.)

Let his love pour over you and spill through you. Not emptying yourself and coming up dry, but letting the depth of his goodness wash over you and rush out of you for the benefit of all those around you.

With this in mind, how can we walk with endurance as we seek to glorify God in this way?

These verses comes to mind:

Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart. Hebrews 12:1-3 NIV

There is a race marked out for us. To fulfill the purposes God has for us, we are to keep our eyes fixed on Jesus. We see the way he moved towards God’s divine purposes for his life, willing to endure pain, shame, and even crucifixion, and ended wrapped in the glory of Heaven.

We fix our eyes on Jesus himself, the hope of Heaven, and the stories in Scripture of all those who walked through trial and came out the other side. We keep our mind focused on the end-game so that we can have perseverance to get through all that our daily moments require of us.

Hebrews 11 lays out in detail the many (real-life) characters that persevered in faith to fulfill all that God had in store for their lives. Peek through it if you want further encouragement in the matter, and be encouraged also to know that God has plans for your life as well.

Ephesians 2:10 is a verse-of-my-life. Encouraging me continually as my heart finds rest and purpose in the truth that God designed me, values me, and calls me to do good for the sake of his name. I hope it does similar in your life as you read it today:

For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. Ephesians 2:10 NIV

May we walk equipped by faith stories, enveloped in the love and example of Christ, and encouraged to live our one life for the glory of our God—who loves us, made us, and strengthens us every step of the way.

Romans 15:6-12

There is a purpose to our endurance. As we persevere in love towards others and obedience to God, there is a beautiful unity that develops.

God loves a unified church. One that isn’t split-up and divided by needless turmoil, but that is wrapped-up and worshipful for the sake of His glory.

I imagine a well-orchestrated band. Where the flutes, harps, and harmonicas all work together so that with one melody, they may create a sound so pleasant and enchanting that all those who encounter it marvel at the conductor. May God be our conductor, and as we stay in step with his cues, may his glory be shown in the church and in our lives.

His desire for unity goes deeper and further than we could ever imagine. It is the crescendo towards which he has always been building.

Romans 3:21-24 describes the build-up:

But now apart from the law the righteousness of God has been made known, to which the Law and the Prophets testify. This righteousness is given through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe. There is no difference between Jew and Gentile, for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and all are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus. Romans 3:21-24 NIV

Jesus is the great unifier. It is because of him that all people—all who place their faith in his name—can come together and sing praises to God. Jew or Gentile. It’s the beauty to which all of God’s Word has pointed, and it’s the beauty which has come to fruition in Christ and is to be continually sought-after in the church as we lay our own lives down and persevere in blessed endurance to be a peaceful, unified body expanding his mission until Christ returns.

And when he returns, this incredible plan will be brought to fullness.

…he made known to us the mystery of his will according to his good pleasure, which he purposed in Christ, to be put into effect when the times reach their fulfillment—to bring unity to all things in heaven and on earth under Christ. Ephesians 1:9-10 NIV

At the fulfillment of all things, there will be a fullness of unity. May we reflect God’s heart for the church day-to-day as we pursue others-focused unity, by the vehicle of benevolent love.

Romans 15:13

This scripture feels worthy of its very own section. It’s one of those verses that—once it’s tucked into your back pocket—feels relevant to take out at a moment’s notice, in all kinds of circumstances.

(In fact, I’ve created a free little printable so you can post this Scripture up around your home as you’d like. It’s attached at the bottom of those page for you to save and print as you’d like!)

This scripture is a great reminder of how steadfast hope sources our joy and peace. We see this truth described in Isaiah 26:3, and isn’t it lovely:

You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you. Isaiah 26:3 NIV

Hope is a supernatural gift, that is only possible by the working of God and the empowerment of the Holy Spirit. May we take hold of every glimmer of hope held out to us, grasping it as the lifeline it is for our faith journeys.

There is abundant goodness promised to us as the children of God, and keeping our minds fixed on the hope of all that presently is, and all that is to come, infuses us with a joy of heart and peace of mind that transcends the circumstances of this world.

We see the connection between joy, hope, and peace laid out again in Philippians 4, where we are invited to rejoice in the Lord. (I have a whole Bible study surrounding this topic if you want to check out how our faith influences our joy! It’s titled, “The Joy of the Lord” if you’d like to check it out.)

Here’s the scripture in view:

Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:4-7 NIV

As we remember the Lord’s nearness, and as we stay connected to him in hope, our lives become characterized by a divine joy and peace. It’s the fruit of our faith, and isn’t it sweet!

Romans 15:14-16

I love the way Paul views his calling: boldly, yet humbly. He acknowledges the gifts and abilities displayed in the church: that they are full of goodness, filled with knowledge, and competent to instruct one another. (Romans 15:14)

But knowing their competency doesn’t keep Paul from keeping his eyes boldly fixed on Christ’s calling for his life. He is confident that God has called him to priesthood, to nourish the full church with the gospel of God, and so he doesn’t back down from the hard work required of speaking some of the more difficult points to the Romans, walking in his purpose.

How beautiful would the church today be if we acted similarly? If we didn’t cower in our gifting but courageously moved forward. Not arrogantly—assuming others don’t have anything to offer—but if we saw God’s goodness in them, even as we moved forward in God’s calling for us.

God’s grace is with his church. Poured out on different people, in varied ways, for the common good. (Ephesians 4:1-16)

But to each one of us grace has been given as Christ apportioned it. Ephesians 4:7 NIV

Paul doesn’t just want them—specifically the Gentiles—to believe in Jesus. But he wants them to grow up in maturity, being sanctified by the power of God through the Holy Spirit. (Romans 14:16)

As Paul describes his willingness to “write boldly”, I am reminded of the call we have as believers to speak truth to one another. Wrapped up in a heart of love, so that we all may grow in our sanctification as God desires:

Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head, that is, Christ. Ephesians 4:15 NIV

He has given us callings and duties, to accomplish his own beautiful purposes through us—that we might all be transformed more and more fully into the image of his Son.

Romans 15:17-22

Paul explained in Romans 15:16 that God had given him the duty of proclaiming the gospel to the Gentiles so that they might become sanctified by the Holy Spirit, living their lives as acceptable offerings to the living God. (Romans 12:1)

Here, Paul continues to share about this work. He acknowledges that it is only by the power of God that anything could be accomplished through him, and yet there is a sense of him being proud of his service. When verse 17 tells us that he glories “in Christ Jesus in his service to God”, this isn’t to say he is feeling arrogant or puffed up, but rather giving appropriate acknowledgement to God’s ability to work through people. And he is proud of that work!

We already chatted earlier about God’s ability to have good works prepared for people to do. (Ephesians 2:10) We are his masterpieces—whom he creates, calls, and equips for his purposes.

May we glorify God by acknowledging the good that is at work in and through us, but not fall to the trap of wanting to be glorified by people in a way that shuts God out and steals the worship belongs to him alone.

This concept of giving glory where glory is due is an important one. There is a juxtaposition that really struck me once as I was reading the book of Acts. In that book, we see two instances in which people wanted to worship human beings—giving them glory and praise instead of God. In these two instances, the individuals responded in very different ways.

First there was King Herod in Acts 12. The people called him a god, and he didn’t deny it. He didn’t direct the praises to God, and well… I’ll let you read about what happened next:

On the appointed day Herod, wearing his royal robes, sat on his throne and delivered a public address to the people. They shouted, “This is the voice of a god, not of a man.” Immediately, because Herod did not give praise to God, an angel of the Lord struck him down, and he was eaten by worms and died. Acts 12:21-23 NIV

Blech. If that doesn’t encourage you to give proper praise to God, I’m not sure what will! Here’s a contrasting story where we see some of the apostles resisting folks who were trying to call them gods, from Acts 14:11-15:

When the crowd saw what Paul had done, they shouted in the Lycaonian language, “The gods have come down to us in human form!” Barnabas they called Zeus, and Paul they called Hermes because he was the chief speaker. The priest of Zeus, whose temple was just outside the city, brought bulls and wreaths to the city gates because he and the crowd wanted to offer sacrifices to them.

But when the apostles Barnabas and Paul heard of this, they tore their clothes and rushed out into the crowd, shouting: “Friends, why are you doing this? We too are only human, like you. We are bringing you good news, telling you to turn from these worthless things to the living God, who made the heavens and the earth and the sea and everything in them”. Acts 14:11-15 NIV

Here, when others tried to call Barnabas and Paul gods, they made it clear that, there was one true God who created all things. May we follow suit, not wanting others to view us as “gods”—but may all that we do to point to the glory of the One True God!

Giving glory to God doesn’t mean we count ourselves worthless—because we know we have incredible value, worth, skills, and gifts as God’s handiwork, and as his beloved children. When we do good work, we should be happy about that—rejoicing over it, glorying in it—while we acknowledge at the same time that every good works flows from the hand of the Father.

In this fifteenth chapter of Romans, we see Paul proclaim all that God has done in his priestly service. Here’s a piece of what he says:

Therefore I glory in Christ Jesus in my service to God. I will not venture to speak of anything except what Christ has accomplished through me in leading the Gentiles to obey God by what I have said and done—by the power of signs and wonders, through the power of the Spirit of God… Romans 15:17-19 NIV

It’s about what God has done through him. And evidently, God had done a lot through him. Miraculous signs and wonders of the Holy Spirit. An evangelistic ministry spreading from Jerusalem to modern-day Albania! (blueletterbible.org)

Paul desired to preach the gospel in places that no one had yet heard the good news. He stepped into the beautiful mission of proclaiming peace and salvation far and wide.

How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of the messenger who brings good news, the good news of peace and salvation, the news that the God of Israel reigns! Isaiah 52:7 NLT

Paul accomplished incredible and wonderful things in his ministry. Things to be proud of. And it was all due to the fact that he was saved by Jesus—and eager to share that very salvation.

Romans 15:22-29

This missional work was so important to him (as he explains in verses 22 and 23) that, while he wanted to visit Rome, he was hindered because of all God had called him to.

I love the priorities Paul had in place. God’s purposes for his life took the number one spot.

Even so, it wasn’t with a coldness that he communicated this reality, but he warmly explained to the Romans that he longed to visit them. And he hoped that there was finally an opening in his ministry travel to do just that:

I plan to do so when I go to Spain. I hope to see you while passing through and to have you assist me on my journey there, after I have enjoyed your company for a while. Romans 15:24 NIV

Paul doesn’t shy away from letting the church know that he hopes for their support in his ministry, while also communicating how he looks forward to enjoying their company.

For those in ministry, there is a lot to take from these passages:

• The work you are doing for the Lord is valuable and good; it is worth rejoicing in!

• At times, it may keep you from seeing all the people you long to see.

• Your work is worth supporting; it’s pouring out the good news of the Gospel for so many in need.

In the midst of describing when he will stop by Rome, Paul also provides insight into the other ministry work he is doing. He is delivering funds to the poor church members in Jerusalem—generous donations from some other spots in Macedonia and Achaia.

And I love how he reveals the humble, grateful spirit of the Gentile believers who acknowledge all the spiritual blessings that are now theirs in Christ Jesus. They were eager and happy to pass funds along to the Jews in need in light of all they received spiritually:

They were pleased to do it, and indeed they owe it to them. For if the Gentiles have shared in the Jews’ spiritual blessings, they owe it to the Jews to share with them their material blessings. Romans 15:27 NIV

Continuing in verse 29, Paul expresses that he will visit Rome “in the full measure of the blessing of Christ”.

After explaining how ministry had kept him from visiting for quite some time—because God had called him to work elsewhere—Paul shows his confidence that when he finally does come, that it will be in the fullness of Christ’s blessing.

Jesus will be with him, and it will be a beautiful time indeed.

Romans 15:30-33

In this prayer request, Paul asks the believers in Rome to continue to pray for him. And in doing so, there are some subtle implications we can take hold of.

Did you notice that Paul both acknowledged that our prayer makes a difference and also, that it is accomplished by the love of the Spirit and by the Lord Jesus Christ?

It is because of Jesus that we are able to approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, to find help in our time of need:

Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need. Hebrews 4:16 NIV

We have the support of the Holy Spirit in our prayers:

 In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans. And he who searches our heartsknows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for God’s people in accordance with the will of God. Romans 8:26-27 NIV

And that the Spirit produces a depth of love in us that wants good for our Christian brothers and sisters!

But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control… Galatians 5:22-23 NLT

I will never tire of exploring the divine mystery of prayer. The Holy Spirit’s transformative work in our hearts gives us a desire to love others as we pray for them—and his power carries our prayers along when we don’t know the words to speak.

It is because of Jesus that we are able to approach God confidently, knowing his grace and mercy rest on us in accordance with Christ’s atoning sacrifice on our behalf.

God’s power gives us the desire and ability to pray, and it’s his power that answers our prayers, and yet—even understanding the grandeur of his goodness and power, we—human beings—are invited to step into the story and pray. To keep praying.

And evidently, our prayers make a difference in the grand scheme of things. Isn’t it incredible?!

And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people. Ephesians 6:18 NIV

Here in Romans 15, Paul sees the urgency of their prayers and the value of their intercession for the sake of his safety, and that his ministry will be well-received. May we continue to intercede for those in ministry—and for all things in life—knowing that our prayers matter, even as they are empowered by God and the Holy Spirit.

Paul wants his trip to go well so that he can once again be reunited with the Romans in person, and be refreshed by their support and companionship. He wishes them peace as he carries onto the close of his letter, up next!

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Beauty in the Book

In this chapter, we see how the power of God infuses the day-to-day life of the church—offering encouragement where it’s needed, perseverance in love, and power in prayer.

Paul encourages the church in unity, knowing that as each person lays down their lives on behalf of others, that the result is the body of Christ coming together and lifting the name of Jesus high with one beautiful voice. We see how God himself empowers and encourages this unity, as he holds all things together for his beloved people. (Colossians 1:17, Romans 15:5-6)

In Christ’s body, each person plays a special role. And while we each may glory—or rejoice in—our service to God, we maintain the understanding that it’s only by his magnificent power that good, lasting, and enteral work is accomplished.

May we understand—as we see displayed in this beautiful chapter—that God’s mission for mankind is moved forward through everyday people and partnerships. As we lay our lives down in love, may we see all that Christ can accomplish in our blessed unity—for the glory of his name.

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Beauty in the Book: Romans 14

Themes

Using the topics of food, drink, and sacred days as illustrations, Paul describes how Christians are to refrain from judging others when their grey-area convictions land in different places. Explore themes of Christian freedom, church interactions, and true kingdom values.

Questions

This chapter addresses the following questions:

• How am I to respond when a fellow Christian thinks something is wrong, but I don’t? (Or, what if they are comfortable with something that I’m not okay with?)

• What role does my own personal conscience play in my Christian walk?

• How can I live to please God in areas that aren’t black-and-white?

Moving Forward

This writing will break down the chapter section-by-section, offering commentary for your reflection. Don’t miss the ending titled Beauty in the Book where it all gets wrapped up in a bow—highlighting how every chapter is woven with uplifting realities of God’s goodness and grace.

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Romans 14:1-3

While there are some subtle implications in this passage for what the life of the individual Christian may or may not involve—regarding eating meat or observing particular days—the focus in this passage is less about what we do and more about how we relate to fellow believers who view things differently than we do.

There are three categories at play:

• The Weak, Judgmental One: This person feels conflicted about certain things, questioning if God is displeased with them for their actions. They judge and resent those who partake freely in the things they feel conflicted about.

• The Strong, Contemptuous One: This person feels no conflicting feelings about their actions and believes they stand right with the Lord. They treat those weaker in faith with scorn, looking down on them.

• The Surrendered, Accepting One: Paul invites both groups to understand that the Lord accepts us, and we are to accept others regardless of where they’re at in their faith. This group surrenders judgment to God, knowing that he is the only one worth answering to.

The beautiful thing about people’s lives being transformed by the Lord, is that whether they lean any particular way—generally partaking or abstaining—by the work of the Spirit, they may grow in acceptance of the one who views things differently, cultivating unity in the body of Christ.

Regarding the varied levels of faith in the church, I love how David Guzik describes weakness in his Enduring Word Bible Commentary. Check out this quote:

“There are many reasons why a Christian might be weak.

· They may be a babe in Christ (babies are weak).

· They may be sick or diseased (by legalism).

· They may be malnourished (by lack of good teaching).

· They may lack exercise (needing exhortation).”

While there are many reasons for spiritual weakness, it’s important to note that a person’s weakness doesn’t disqualify them from being loved and accepted into the family of God.

Weak faith is still faith, and as they sort through and grow in their comprehension of God’s mercy, we are to extend welcoming arms that display God’s prevalent grace, not hold them at arm’s length with a cold rejection misrepresentative of the heart of God.

Regarding the strong, it’s almost as if Paul is enticing them to use their strength—not just to partake freely in that which they are allowed by God—but to extend to others the same free acceptance they themselves have received.

A similar topic is covered in the book of Galatians—specifically in chapter five if you want to explore further. This next verse sums it up well:

You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love. Galatians 5:13 NIV

For those who are strong in faith and in an understanding of their Christian freedom—with all their choices, they are to choose to be willing servants who build up those around them. Not bound as slaves, but serving as beloved children and members of the family.

It’s not that the Lord disregards weakness or doesn’t desire for people to be strengthened; it’s just that a person’s strength or weakness isn’t a contingency for acceptance. In fact, God has equipped the church—in accordance with his grace—all the tools required for people to come to maturity in the faith. This task however, is to be garnered in peace and unity.

As Ephesians 4:3 calls believers to “make every effort for unity in the Spirit through the bond of peace”, we are to pursue maturity in faith with peace at the forefront. Perhaps this is why the emphasis Paul offers here is on acceptance amidst differences rather than the specific differences themselves.

All of Ephesians 4 is beneficial on this topic of maturity in the faith. Take a moment to comb through it, taking special note of how grace, love, and unity play a vital role in maturity:

As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called; one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.

But to each one of us grace has been given as Christ apportioned it. This is why it says:

“When he ascended on high,
    he took many captives
    and gave gifts to his people.”

(What does “he ascended” mean except that he also descended to the lower, earthly regions? He who descended is the very one who ascended higher than all the heavens, in order to fill the whole universe.) So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ.

Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of people in their deceitful scheming. Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head, that is, Christ. From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work. Ephesians 4, NIV

Equipping in faith is a spiritual gift from God, accomplished through the body of Christ by the means of love. When we come down on each other with contempt and judgement—as described in these opening verses of Romans 14—we are neglecting the royal law for which we were intended as God’s holy people: to love one another deeply, from the heart. (1 Peter 1:22)

Romans 14:4

Romans 14:4 is a powerful, humbling verse that reminds us what our role is—and what our role isn’t. Our job is to live our lives submitted to an audience of one. We are to keep God’s judgement in mind as we seek to walk out obedience to all he calls us to as believers in the faith.

Our role is not to judge others. It’s entirely out of place.

In this short section, we see both God’s perfect judgement and incredible mercy walking hand-in-hand. His judgement, because he is the only one worthy to assess us with clarity and truth. His mercy, because he alone is able to make us stand on our judgement day.

It is because of God’s love, Christ’s sacrifice, and the work of the Holy Spirit that we are both labeled eternally righteous through justification, and being made righteous through sanctification.

If this is the steadfast grace with which we are met with in the Lord, who are we to tear down fellow believers, and recipients of this glorious grace?

It reminds me of what we read way back in Romans 2 about judging others. God’s kindness perseveres in his judgement. We, however, are faulty and unworthy judges. We are better to pass judgment over to the mercy of God—the only Holy and Righteous One.

Here’s Romans 2:1-4 on the matter:

You, therefore, have no excuse, you who pass judgment on someone else, for at whatever point you judge another, you are condemning yourself, because you who pass judgment do the same things. Now we know that God’s judgment against those who do such things is based on truth. So when you, a mere human being, pass judgment on them and yet do the same things, do you think you will escape God’s judgment? Or do you show contempt for the riches of his kindness, forbearance and patience, not realizing that God’s kindness is intended to lead you to repentance? Romans 2:1-4 NIV

God is the only appropriate judge because his judgement is rooted in absolute truth. And blessed are we that his perfect judgement is matched only by his perfect kindness.

Romans 14:5-6

As believers in Jesus, we have stepped “out of the darkness and into God’s glorious light”, as 1 Peter 2:9 so beautifully puts it.

All that we do, we seek to do in light of Jesus—living purely before him, eager to please him, and choosing to love him. Which is why that sometimes, it’s less about what we do and more about the heart with which we do it.

Like a parent who has grace for their toddling child—sometimes in step, sometimes out of step—but who who delights in every ounce of their sincere attempts at obedience, so God values his servant who genuinely seeks to please him with every move they make.

This isn’t to say we aren’t to learn and discern God’s ways, growing in wisdom and maturity along the way, but the greater lesson is that for every bit of black-and-white wisdom we attain, there is going to be a whole lot more of grey areas. These are the circumstances in which we are to allow the Lord to search our hearts as we aim to please him the best we can, in accordance with our furthest understanding.

We may be strong in faith, or weak in faith, but may we always aim to love the Lord with the entirety of our heart, soul, mind, and strength. (Mark 12:30)

Romans 14:7-9

The divine reality described to be at play here is worth leaning into: there is no height, width, or depth that could separate us from all Jesus is for us:

I’m reminded of the truth relayed in Romans 8:38-39:

For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 8:38-39 NIV

Death can’t keep us from the love of God, found in Jesus.

The full span of life can’t keep us from the love of God, found in Jesus.

No angel. No demon. No powers. No height, depth, or anything else! If such is the case, surely our choice to partake or abstain in a particular meat or holiday isn’t going to forbade us from Christ’s love!

The word that keeps standing out to me here is “Lord”. That’s what Jesus is for us. Christ died and came to life so that he might be “the Lord” for us, fully and completely.

Let’s explore further what exactly this role entails:

Lord, krios, κύριος:

• the one to whom a person belongs

• that which has the power of deciding

• the owner or master

• the one with ultimate control

• the supreme ruler

• a title of respect or reverence, given to a master from their servant

• God’s title/the Messiah’s title!

(Definition summarized/paraphrased from blueletterbible.org.)

Here’s what I think is pretty groovy about this whole definition… it drives home the idea that we were always meant to live our lives in focus of what Jesus thinks about things. He is meant to be the one we aim to please in our decision making. He is the one we are to serve. He is the one we belong to. And he is the only worthy judge.

We aren’t intended to look to the right or to the left, but to look up. To live vertically (not horizontally). He gave everything to be our Lord. May our gaze remain fixed steadfastly on him.

Romans 14:10-12

A natural segue from describing Jesus as the one who is to be rightfully called Lord—master, ruler, powerful one—Paul asks his listeners why they are treating one another with contempt and judgement.

The people had been putting themselves on a ruling seat never intended for them. As Paul continues,

“…we will all stand before God’s judgment seat”. Romans 15:10 NIV (my underline added)

It is out of place for us to step into the position of either judgement (for the one who partakes in things) or contempt (for the one who abstains). (Romans 14:3)

I took a moment to dig into those words—to judge or to treat with contempt, as worded in the NIV—and I wanted to offer a simple explanation.

To “judge” is to condemn or pick someone apart. To “treat with contempt” is to write them off as nothing. One is too involved in another’s choices. The other disregards a person completely.

Neither of these are the balance we are to strike in Jesus. We are to walk the path of love, not appraising our neighbor, but not despising them either.

Paul taps into just how we are to treat others in the church in verses ahead.

Romans 14:13-15

Rather than devaluing others around us—disregarding their thoughts, judgement calls, or feelings—we are actually to regard others highly through-and-through.

It seems I can’t go more than a few chapters without nestling back into Christ’s humility as depicted in Philippians 2, and this section is no exception.

See here the Christian call to regard others significantly:

Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others. Philippians 2:3-4 NIV

Playing it out with illustrations, Paul says that when we encounter someone who feels conflicted about partaking in a certain food or event, rather than treating them with contempt—or dishonoring their view—we are to humble ourselves and actually commit to not putting a stumbling block in their way, or encouraging them to take an action that, in their heart, they feel would be sinning against the Lord.

In verses 13-14, Paul discusses why a food would be outlawed for someone based on their own conscience, but then in verse 15, he takes it a step further and describes how—if a person is conflicted about what another is eating, it is advisable for that person to abstain as well.

This is humble, others-focused love in action. This is what it means for a Christians to use his freedom to love, as described in Galatians 5:13.

Romans 14:16-21

Depending on your translation, verse 16 might sound like a plot twist. Here’s how it reads in the NIV Bible:

Therefore do not let what you know is good be spoken of as evil. Romans 14:16 NIV

This isn’t an encouragement (after calling believers to lay their rights down) to then dig their heels in and not let certain things “be spoken of as evil”.

But rather, I believe it’s the encouragement to not let the name of Christian freedom be tarnished for the sake of a meal. To not stubbornly hold fast to getting one’s way, and in doing so, cause one’s faith to be spoken against.

After all, as Paul continues, life in the Spirit isn’t about doing what it takes to get one’s own way, but rather it’s about pursuing what leads to joy, peace, and mutual edification.

The word “edification” is simply described in the Apple Dictionary as this: “the instruction or improvement of a person morally or intellectually”.

We are to seek actions that help a person be built up to do what they believe is right (morals). For the Christian, this is to do what we believe is right in God’s eyes—to serve Jesus as our one and only master. May we help those around us to live in order to please the Lord as their number one.

We already referenced Ephesians 4 in this section, but 4:3 is worth revisiting:

Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. Ephesians 4:3 NIV

In the church, the operation of the Holy Spirit is a divine mystery—perhaps the most fascinating part of that mystery is that God chooses to appoint supernatural work of the Holy Spirit to be enacted via ordinary human church members.

God’s Spirit moves and breathes amongst his church. Keeping unity of the Spirit—unity in the church—is worth upholding. (Even if it means passing on that meat plate you really wanted.)

Romans 14:22-23

First, Paul talked about us (believers) judging others. (Romans 14:1-12)

Then, he talked about others judging themselves. And others judging us. (Romans 14:13-21)

Finally, he discusses us judging ourselves.

And I love what he says:

So whatever you believe about these things keep between yourself and God. Blessed is the one who does not condemn himself by what he approves. Romans 14:22 NIV

I’m also going to add this verse here from the Amplified Bible, as I find it very helpful:

The faith which you have [that gives you freedom of choice], have as your own conviction before God [just keep it between yourself and God, seeking His will]. Happy is he who has no reason to condemn himself for what he approves. Romans 14:22 AMP

It never gets old to me that the word “blessed” can be simply translated to happy. Good-ol’-fashioned happy. (blueletterbible.org)

The person who holds a personal conviction before God—and operates in accordance with that conviction—is happy! This way of living brings clarity and simplicity, keeping the waters from being muddied by legalism and other people-oriented systems of thinking.

We live in the light of Christ, in pursuit of God’s will, by the power of the Spirit. Knowing (as we saw in verse 18) that the one who seeks to please God isn’t focused primarily on the do’s and don’t’s of diet or calendar, but is seeking the to fulfill the law of neighborly, Christ-like love. (Romans 13:10)

In the end, if a person believes they are going against God’s will when they do something, then they ought not to do it. At the same time, if they believe something is allowed in accordance with their Christian freedom, may they take into account how their choices impact those around them, as they seek to hold love in high pursuit—for the glory of their Master.

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Beauty in the Book

I love it! I just love-love-love it. The Christian life is about loving God and loving others. And while the nuances are as widespread as meals on a menu or days on a calendar, it really is as simple as can be: we are to live our lives with the aim of loving our Holy God and those around us.

It’s the question asked of Jesus, and his basic, profound answer in Matthew 22:

“Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?”

Jesus replied: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ Matthew 22:36-38 NIV

We see this mindset played out as Paul addresses specific circumstances with the Roman church. When believers come together with varying levels of faith and varying opinions on grey matters, how is the church to proceed? Simply put: by putting others above themselves.

They are to be convicted in their hearts and minds before a Holy God—living not in the fear of man, but in the fear of Him only—but they are to be willing to lay down their rights at a moment’s notice to serve the weakest among them.

This is to uphold his way of love as we hold fast to the simplicity of his law—scripted onto our hearts, being brought to fruition by the work of the Spirit. For the betterment of the church, the furthering of his kingdom, and the glory of His Name.

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