Constable’s summary: “In contrasting chapters 1-11 with chapters 12-16 of Romans, perhaps the most important distinction is that the first part deals primarily with God’s actions for humanity, and the last part deals with people’s actions in response to God’s. This is an oversimplification of the book, but the distinction is a valid one. God’s provision contrasts with man’s responsibility to behave in a manner consistent with what God has done, is doing, and will do for him (cf. Ephesians 4:1; Philippians 2:12-13). The first part is more information for belief whereas the last part is more exhortation for action. The first part stresses right relations with God and the last part right relations with other people.”
Romans 15:1-6 (WEL) We who are strong [in faith] must bear with the weaknesses of those weak [in faith] and [must] not seek to please ourselves. 2 Let each of us seek to please [our] neighbor for [their] good, to build them up. 3 For even Christ didn’t seek to please himself, but as it is written, “The criticisms of those who criticized you fell on me.” 4 For whatever was written beforehand was written for our learning, so that through the perseverance and the comfort of the Scriptures we might have hope. 5 Now may the God of that perseverance and comfort grant you to be like-minded towards one another according to Christ Jesus, 6 So that with one mind and mouth you may glorify God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.
V1 We who are strong [in faith] must bear with the weaknesses of those weak [in faith] and [must] not seek to please ourselves.
This is the principle—others before ourselves. It is showing love, kindness, and concern for others.
Wuest Word Studies: “The pleasing one’s neighbor in this context refers to the act of the believer foregoing a legitimate act because that weaker Christian thinks it to be wrong. It pleases him because it removes a source of temptation to him to do that thing, and makes his attempt to live a life pleasing to God easier. But the stronger Christian is to do this only in the instance where the weaker Christian would be edified or built up in the Christian life. Paul then enforces his exhortation by citing the example of our Lord Jesus who pleased not Himself. The writer to the Hebrews speaks of this in Hebrews 12:2 when he refers to our Lord who instead of (huper) the joy then present with Him, endured the Cross. It was the joy of heaven, of the Father’s smile, of the worship of the angels that was His legitimate prerogative; that He voluntarily set aside to drink the Gethsemane cup, the ingredients of which He did not want, namely, to be made sin and to lose the fellowship of the Father as He hung on the Cross.”
V2 Let each of us seek to please [our] neighbor for [their] good, to build them up.
This is the motive—build up, strengthen their faith. We build others up by reading, studying, and living the words of the Bible, then sharing with others who can share with you. We can pray for each other. Listen to problems. Help with needs. Participate in church Bible studies.
V3 For even Christ didn’t seek to please himself, but as it is written, “The criticisms of those who criticized you fell on me.” [Psalm 69:9]
This is the example—Jesus Christ.
The Greek word for criticisms/insults is G3680 ὀνειδισμός oneidismós, which means contumely (Strongs), which means (Apple Dictionary) “insolent or insulting language or treatment.” Compare Luke 19:14.
V4 For whatever was written beforehand was written for our learning, so that through the perseverance and the comfort of the Scriptures we might have hope.
This is what we call the Old Testament. This is one good reason to read and study the Old Testament. This verse and what it teaches is for the believers learning.
V5 Now may the God of that perseverance and comfort grant you to be like-minded towards one another according to Christ Jesus.
A prayer for us to be agreeable to each other. The Lord Jesus suffered insults, so let us not insult another to hurt their faith.
Note the two character traits of God. These are communicable character traits which we have as well. Perseverance = not giving up, being faithful even in hardships. This applies to our relationship with God and our fellow believers. God also is the comforter. The ways He comforts should be an example of what we must do. Compare John 11:33-36, Matthew 14:14, Matthew 9:36, and Hebrews 4:15.
V6 So that with one mind and mouth you may glorify God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.
This is unity of faith—glorifying God is what we say and do. Whatever we do, our goal should be to glorify God. This is our testimony. This doesn’t mean that God is a narcissist, but it is our testifying the truth of God’s character.
We learn:
- God’s principles, motives, and examples for Christians.
- The main point is to glorify God.
Questions:
- How does your life agree with the above points?
- How will you make changes?