Romans – Pleasing Others

Paul continues that those of us who are strong must “bear with the failings of the weak” rather than pleasing ourselves. It is in this sense that we should try to live in harmony with our neighbors–not a false harmony of placation, but truly tying to build him up in faith. A Jewish Christian, for example, may opt to keep some of the Old Testament observances, and a Gentile should not try to dissuade him from doing that. Likewise, a Gentile will not be bound by the old precepts, and through that, show God’s mercy. We must do everything we can to confirm the faith of our neighbors.

The closing theme is Gerard Satamian’s Chansons Sans Paroles Op. 2 Pastorale, from the album Dry Fig Trees. www.magnatune.com