October 7, 2023 - Romans 15

In chapter 14, Paul writes about foods, special days, and other matters. One considers certain days important, another thinks of different days as important. We must be careful not to allow these matters to divide us in the church. The apostle continues his line of thought in chapter 15: “We who are strong have an obligation to bear with the failings of the weak, and not to please ourselves. Let each of us please his neighbor for his good, to build him up” (15:1-2) & “May the God of endurance and encouragement grant you to live in such harmony with one another, in accord with Christ Jesus, that together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ” (15:5-6).

Can’t help but remember David’s words: “Behold, how good and pleasant it is when brothers dwell in unity! It is like the precious oil on the head, running down on the beard, on the beard of Aaron, running down on the collar of his robes! It is like the dew of Hermon, which falls on the mountains of Zion! For there the Lord has commanded the blessing, life forevermore” (Psalm 133:1-3).

Blest is the pious house

where zeal and friendship meet;

their songs of praise, their mingled vows,

make their communion sweet. –Isaac Watts (1740)