An archaeologist heads off to a dig for weeks and quickly discovers that the hardest part is not the shovel but living under one roof with people whose habits get on his nerves. Church can feel much the same, and that is exactly what Paul wrote about to the Christians in Rome, where some ate everything and others only vegetables (Romans 14). The message draws the line between first-order truths and personal preferences we dress up as theology, and asks whether they are really worth a fight. Listen and consider what you do with the people you find hard to bear in church.
Discussion questions
For your small group or for personal reflection after the sermon.
- In Romans 14 Paul describes two groups: the weak, who eat only vegetables and regard some days as special, and the strong, who eat everything. How did each group see the other, and why were both convinced they were doing it for the Lord?
- Paul writes that the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. How does this change the way we settle disagreements over secondary issues in church?
- The preacher lists examples of church divisions: songs, instruments, a suit or a shirt, lights and smoke, a Christmas tree. Which secondary matters are you most likely to dress up in theology, and why?
- Paul says the strong ought to bear with the failings of the weak and not please themselves. Why is demanding change from someone else often easier than changing ourselves?
- How do you understand the principle: in essentials unity, in non-essentials liberty, in all things love? How do you tell the essentials from the non-essentials?
- Who in your community is hard for you to bear with, and how can you welcome them this week just as Christ has welcomed you?
