Beloved, as followers of Christ, we have been given freedom through His sacrifice. Yet, this freedom is not for self-indulgence but a call to walk in love and humility toward others, and to ensure that you do not cause others to stumble. The apostle Paul writes in Romans 14:13-23, “Therefore, let’s not judge one another anymore, but rather determine this: not to put an obstacle or a stumbling block in a brother’s or sister’s way” (Romans 14:13, NASB). This powerful passage reminds us that our actions, though permissible, should never cause another believer to stumble in their faith.
In Paul’s time, Christians debated issues such as eating food sacrificed to idols and the observance of holy days. Paul clarifies that these actions, while not sinful in themselves, could harm the conscience of another believer. He says, “For if because of food your brother or sister is hurt, you are no longer walking in accordance with love” (Romans 14:15, NASB). The guiding principle is simple yet profound: love must govern our freedom so that we do not cause others to stumble. Instead of asserting our rights, we must seek to edify and protect the faith of others.
Broadening the Application for Today
While Paul addressed food and holy days, this principle applies to many modern situations where our actions could affect another believer’s conscience or faith. Here are some real-world examples to consider:
- Alcohol Consumption: Scripture does not forbid drinking alcohol, but it cautions against drunkenness. If drinking in the presence of someone who struggles with addiction or has convictions against alcohol could lead them to sin, refraining is an act of love. As Paul wrote, “It is good not to eat meat or to drink wine, or to do anything by which your brother or sister stumbles” (Romans 14:21, NASB). Do not cause others to stumble.
- Entertainment Choices: Watching movies, TV shows, or engaging in video games may seem harmless, but these choices could affect others. If what you watch or play glorifies violence, lust, or ungodliness, it might lead someone to imitate those behaviors or compromise their faith. Love calls us to prioritize holiness over entertainment, ensuring that we do not cause others to stumble.
- Modesty in Clothing: Clothing may be a personal choice, but it has a communal impact. If your fashion choices cause others to struggle with lust or judgment, consider how you can honor God and protect the hearts of those around you. Again, be mindful not to cause others to stumble.
- Language and Humor: While some forms of humor or speech might not trouble your conscience, they could influence others to adopt coarse language or behavior. Paul urges us to build one another up, saying, “So then we pursue the things which make for peace and the building up of one another” (Romans 14:19, NASB). Therefore, do not cause others to stumble.
- Social Media Posts: The digital age has amplified how our actions affect others. Sharing divisive opinions, provocative images, or material that stirs envy or anger can cause others to stumble. Instead, let your posts reflect the goodness and grace of God, promoting unity and peace. Do not cause others to stumble.
Living Out Love
The key to understanding this teaching is love. As Paul reminds us, “For the kingdom of God is not eating and drinking, but righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit” (Romans 14:17, NASB). Our ultimate goal is to honor God and bring others closer to Him. If our freedoms threaten to harm another believer’s walk, we must lay them down for the sake of love and unity.
This principle also challenges us to examine our motives. Are we prioritizing our rights or seeking to reflect Christ’s love? True freedom is not about doing whatever we want—it’s about using our freedom to serve others. Paul’s words urge us to live selflessly, saying, “Each of us is to please his neighbor for his good, to his edification. For even Christ did not please Himself” (Romans 15:2-3, NASB).
A Prayer for Wisdom and Love
Let us pray:
Heavenly Father, thank You for the freedom we have in Christ. Teach us to use this freedom to glorify You and to edify those around us. Give us wisdom to see how our actions affect others, and the humility to lay down our rights for the sake of love. Help us to live lives that reflect the righteousness, peace, and joy of Your kingdom. May we always seek to build up our brothers and sisters in Christ, bringing unity to Your Church. In Jesus’ name, Amen. Let us strive not to cause others to stumble.
By living with love and consideration for others, we reflect the heart of Christ and advance His kingdom. Let your freedom in Christ be a beacon of His grace, drawing others closer to Him.