Therefore accept one another, even as Christ also accepted you, to the glory of God. Romans 15:7 WEB

Emulating the life of service commanded by our lord Jesus Christ, Paul begins chapter fifteen of his letter to the Romans stating that those who are strong ought to bear the burdens of the weak. This is an appeal to unity in Christian communities. As Christ bore the burden of sin and death for those who believe in him, Paul encourages the church to persevere in fellowship and service.

Paul writes in Romans 14:1, “Now accept one who is weak in faith, but not for disputes over opinions. WEB” In spite of minor differences of opinion, as fellow members of the body of Christ Paul instructs the church to accept one another. His reasoning is in line with his desire to glorify God. Christ accepted those who were faulable and weak. As his followers, we should do the same. 

Division Leads to Destruction

Unity is strength. As we read the words of Christ in Matthew 12:25, “Every kingdom divided against itself is brought to desolation, and every city or house divided against itself will not stand. WEB” This is a powerful principle. Division leads to destruction. Paul encourages unity in the church to produce strength and vitality in the Christian community.

Negativity, refusal to serve the weak, and failing in fellowship with those with whom we may have minor disagreements impedes establishing the glory of God in our lives. When we accept one another as Christ accepted us, we establish and maintain the relationships through which we fulfill God’s purpose for our lives.  

We read in 1 Peter 3:8, “Finally, all of you be like-minded, compassionate, loving as brothers, tenderhearted, courteous. WEB” These traits promote the unity that Paul writes about in Romans. Even those whose faith is weaker than our own belong to the Lord. Christ commands us to love one another in spite of our differences. 

Yesterday’s Devotional: A Small Fire Can Spread