Romans 14 - the weak and the strong

Is the strength of our faith comparable to the magnitude of our faith? Jesus told us in Matthew 17:19-20 that faith of a mustard seed…can move mountains. However, Paul in Romans 14 states that we should be considerate to fellow brothers who are weak in faith. Those weaker in faith described here were more so governed by one’s conscience of religiously following sets of rules and principles to live by. They have yet to really understand the religious liberation that Christ brought. However, those with stronger faith need to act with discernment in regards not to stumble those who follow religiously as they too, are earnest in seeking piousness. With the little faith they have, the weak can become strong. Those stronger in Christ should continue to encourage until those weaker in faith would realize the ultimate triumph of Christ above all. Religious piety would only get them that far but when that border crossing happens it will be as though a veil has been opened and the scales on the eyes fallen. Hence, grace and mercy abounds as we do all things in faith and confidence in our God, not dwelling on doubts, for all faithless matters is sin.

Romans 13 - submissiveness to authority

Submissiveness was neither a favorite nor popular virtue when it comes to authorities. Probably a more inclined disposition towards authorities would be respect, or worse fear. Submissiveness embodied meekness and obedience, similar traits towards God. However, authorities pose problem when our views start clashing with the other. But Paul stated that God instituted the authority. Without God’s authority, the earthly authorities will not command any worthy authority. Do not get me wrong, people in authority may wronged you but remember that Paul plead to us not to take revenge, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written, “It is mine to avenge; I will repay”. [Deut 32:35] Yet again, it does not mean that we do nothing about it and let such evil overpower us. We are not to be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good. Truth to be told, our logic and fear will be the likeliest to guide the proportion of laws or rules that we break. Our deductive ability will determine the severity of a crime mostly from an economic framework. Say I over sped and realized a $50 fine. Not much if I must say so myself and I could even justified a few more tickets. But say a slap of $500 would definitely get me thinking. Hence the need to submit to authorities not only due to punishment but also because of conscience of the mind that I have wronged, not matter what. Obedience [to God] is better than sacrifice. [1 Sam 15:22]

doxology

o, the depth of the riches both of wisdom and knowledge of God. how unsearchable his judgements, and His ways past finding out. for who has known the mind of the Lord, or who became His counselor? or who has ever given to God, that God should repay Him? for from Him and through Him and to Him are all things. to Him to be the glory forever. romans 11:33