Therefore, let us stop passing judgment on one another. Instead, make up your mind not to put any stumbling block or obstacle in the way of a brother or sister. I am convinced, being fully persuaded in the Lord Jesus, that nothing is unclean in itself. But if anyone regards something as unclean, then for that person it is unclean. If your brother or sister is distressed because of what you eat, you are no longer acting in love. Do not by your eating destroy someone for whom Christ died. Therefore, do not let what you know is good be spoken of as evil. For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit, 18 because anyone who serves Christ in this way is pleasing to God and receives human approval.  Romans 14: 13-18

This week, we are studying a section of scripture that is often used in our current culture to direct others on how a Christ follower should act when confronted with difficult questions. Some of which the Bible itself is not specifically clear on. These questions range in magnitude from “Should that person have a beer with that burger?” to “What is the proper Christian stance on a person’s alternative lifestyle choices?” Both questions are worthy of proper evaluation, although one is considerably easier to talk through at the dinner table. Although we will not find a definitive stance on either of these questions in this short blog, we will decide on a strategy to derive the best answer.

A stumbling block looks very different when observed by different parties. I will just use one that I struggle with, and it will most likely surprise you. BALLCAPS! Inside the church, they make me extremely uneasy. They distract me and throw me off my ability to worship at times. I have a very strong opinion on when and where they should be worn. But is this stumbling block an issue caused by the person wearing it, or because of the preconception I have in my heart? Most likely it is the latter.

As an image bearer of Christ, we are to take precautions to not become a stumbling block for our brothers and Sisters. Often, it is easy to see the correct path. Other times it’s clouded with confusion and possibly our insensitivity to it. As Paul says, we must be diligent in our discernment of these issues and act in the way Jesus would approve.

Have a great week!  ~Danny