Romans 15:1-6 (NIV)

Romans 15:1-6 (NIV)
1 We who are strong ought to bear with the failings of the weak and not to please ourselves.
2 Each of us should please his neighbor for his good, to build him up.
3 For even Christ did not please himself but, as it is written: "The insults of those who insult you have fallen on me."
4 For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through endurance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope.
5 May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you a spirit of unity among yourselves as you follow Christ Jesus,
6 so that with one heart and mouth you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Paul classifies himself as one of the strong in faith. The people who are weak could be those who are new to their faith in Christ. People who are new to their faith usually have zeal, but lack knowledge. Those who are strong are not to endure the new believer, but encourage them. Can a person who has known the Lord for a good period of time still be weak? Some of the people I have talked with in the past are people who were well schooled in their faith and did not want others around them to have different values than them. These people would not, however, be destroyed if you did something different in front of them that they saw as sin. They may judge you and talk about you, but never would they be destroyed. The discernment that is needed in these circumstances is, who is the weaker brother and who is the stronger? Love must control the circumstances and therefore truth must be spoken in love. At the heart of Paul's concern is the unity of the church. A team that is rowing in the same direction is a powerful force of nature. Paul knew if the church would fight amongst themselves then there would be no hope of giving the Gospel to the world. We must seek unity, but not at all costs. I have seen churches become weak because they never help develop the faith of believers. There are times for awkward conversations. There are times for everyone to examine their hearts as to why they do this or that. Are we motivated by love or by selfishness? I find verse three so convicting as Christ did not please himself! Over the next few days think of ways to please those around you.