v1-6: Different practices and convictions. When key doctrines of Scripture are involved, we are firm and dogmatic. However, on some issues, there are differences; in eating certain foods, and in observing certain days. We must receive and accept all who know and love the Lord; such differences over 'secondary' issues should not create division.

v1: We may deem others to be weak in the faith, but we are not to promote disputes over doubtful things. We recognise that Scripture does not lay down explicit teaching for every conceivable eventuality; rather it lays down principles, as here. The 'weaker brother' is the one given to legalism.

v2-3: In regard to any issue, we are not to despise or to judge, since God has received each one. Those who burden themselves are called weak; but others must not despise them for that; neither should the weak judge others. We are not to consider a 'weak' brother weak in their faith, but having an over-sensitive conscience.

v4: God is able to make each one stand, whatever their convictions. We have no right to judge another. Rather we must be faithful (Jer 35) and encourage others to be faithful.

v5: We have a personal responsibility to be fully convinced, having our convictions based on Scripture. We need to know the principles that guide us.

v6: The need for a clear conscience before God. All things are to be done as to the Lord, done for His glory.

If we pursue a particular practice for other reasons, such a personal gain, or fear of man, then that is not right, even if the practice itself is not wrong. Our attitudes and motives are also important.

v7: No man is an island; it is both selfish and foolish to assume otherwise. This is true whether or not a person is a Christian, but especially true for the Christian.

v8-9: Individually, we are called to walk with the Lord. This is because we belong to Him, for He is Lord. Christ is referred to repeatedly as Lord (9 times in v6-11). The ultimate destiny of all things is that Jesus Christ be seen as Lord over all, and every knee shall bow before Him.

v10: Two vital factors; our personal accountability before God (v12) and our responsibility towards our brothers. We are neither to show contempt, nor to judge.

v11: Submission to Christ; this is prophesied in the IT; and we are called to apply this into our lives.

v12: Our accountability;

• Its scope – each of us;
• its certainty – shall give account;
• its limit – of himself; and
• its gravity – to God.

As far as leaders are concerned, there is a "stricter judgment" (Heb 13.17; James 3.1), yet this also falls within the overall context of accountability.

If we were more conscious of these truths, would our lives be different? We would be more thoughtful and careful in our attitudes and actions.

We are neither unaccountable nor anonymous. God shows great respect for each individual. The Bible is littered with names of individuals and their works.

v13: The conclusion reached, and the decision to be made; not to cause another to stumble, 1 Cor 8.9. My behaviour must be changed that others be blessed and encouraged.

v14-16: In discussing 'secondary' matters, the over-riding principle is to love the brethren.

Some regard particular foods as unclean, which is both an issue in itself, and also an illustration of the principles. True love will be concerned not to bring distress or stumbling to another.

v17-18: Christianity is essentially something spiritual;

• not a system of rules and regulations, but a life to be lived;
• our calling is to serve Christ, and to love the brethren;
• we have the opportunity to gain God's approval.

v19: The attitude to edify others, and to promote peace. We recognise that our actions do influence others; and we must make every effort to honour God in this.

v20-21: Recognise that others think differently; we are therefore to restrain and modify our own behaviour out of love for others.

But Paul does not change what he teaches, just because others hold different views; his aim is to produce strong faith, contrast v2.

v22: Need for a clear conscience and discretion in all things; it is foolish to pursue any course of behaviour that brings personal guilt.

v23: To eat with guilt is to be without faith. Faith is our desire to obey God in all things. If we do not act in faith, then we sin.