What actions might cause others to view our faith negatively? Setting the Context “Therefore do not let what you consider good be spoken of as evil.” (Romans 14:16) Paul is addressing disputes over food and holy days. Some believers felt free to eat anything; others, trained by former convictions, felt certain foods were off-limits. The issue wasn’t the menu but the witness. Liberty handled without love would give outsiders ammunition to brand the gospel as hypocritical or harmful. Why Our Actions Matter • Outsiders can only measure our faith by what they see (1 Samuel 16:7 reminds us God sees the heart, but people see the outward). • Our conduct is meant to “adorn the doctrine of God our Savior” (Titus 2:10). • Jesus tied credibility to visible love: “By this everyone will know that you are My disciples, if you love one another” (John 13:35). Actions That Dull the Shine of Our Faith • Flaunting freedom while ignoring weaker consciences (Romans 14:15). • Harsh, judgmental speech toward other believers or unbelievers (James 3:9-10). • Hypocrisy—professing holiness but practicing hidden sin (Matthew 23:27). • Compromise with culture: entertainment choices, business practices, or relationships that violate clear commands (Ephesians 5:11). • Grumbling and disagreement aired publicly, especially online (Philippians 2:14-15). • Neglecting acts of mercy—turning a blind eye when practical help is needed (1 John 3:17-18). • Using Christian liberty as license—drunkenness, crude humor, immodesty, all of which contradict the call to be “set apart” (1 Peter 1:15-16). • Gossip and slander within the church family (Proverbs 26:20; 2 Corinthians 12:20). Scriptural Echoes of the Same Warning • 1 Corinthians 8:9—“Be careful, however, that your freedom does not become a stumbling block to the weak.” • 1 Peter 2:12—“Conduct yourselves with such honor among the Gentiles that, though they slander you as evildoers, they may see your good deeds and glorify God.” • Matthew 5:16—“Let your light shine before men that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” • 1 Thessalonians 4:12—Live “properly before outsiders” so you will “not be dependent on anyone.” • Titus 2:7-8—Show integrity “so that those who oppose you will be ashamed, having nothing bad to say about us.” Living a Compelling Witness Practical ways to ensure what is “good” stays good in the world’s eyes: • Filter choices through love: “Does this build up my brother or sister?” • Seek feedback: invite trusted believers to point out blind spots. • Lay aside a liberty if it confuses or harms someone looking on. • Speak graciously—even strong convictions can be shared with gentleness (Colossians 4:6). • Be consistent: holiness at church, home, work, and leisure. • Keep short accounts with God—regular confession and repentance keep hypocrisy at bay. • Serve tangibly; good works silence critics faster than good arguments (1 Peter 2:15). Summing It Up When our actions align with love, outsiders may still disagree with our message, but they will struggle to deny its beauty. Romans 14:16 urges believers to guard that beauty so the name of Christ remains untarnished in every neighborhood, classroom, and workplace we touch. |
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