We who are strong ought to bear with the failings of the weak and not to please ourselves (Romans 15:1).
The principle which Paul gives us here is that we ought to bear the failings of those who are weaker than we are. He is referring to those who are weak because they strongly insist on living according to different religious principles. These are principles that no longer apply because of our liberty in Christ.
It is easy to feel irritated, and even angry, at the behaviour of some people within the community of Christ. We want to criticise and condemn these people. We don’t want to bear with their failings. We prefer to please ourselves in our attitude toward them.
However, we are not to give in to our initial inclinations, according to what our natural hearts tell us is right.
To bear the failings of the weak means to come alongside them and help them carry the burden of their doubts and fears.
Jesus is the great burden-bearer. He bears our failings and our burdens. David, the Psalmist, encourages us to,
Cast your burden upon the Lord and He will sustain you (Ps. 55:22.)
In the same way, as part of the one body in the Lord, we are to bear one another’s burdens.
Paul tells us what we should do is much more than just “putting up” with these people. To bear the failings of the weak means to come alongside them and help them carry the burden of their doubts and fears. It calls for empathy, gentleness, and love.
Spiritual Application
Do you just “put up” with people who cause you trouble, or do you actively love them and bear their burdens?
Article supplied with thanks to Dr Eliezer Gonzalez.
About the Author: Dr Eli Gonzalez is the Senior Pastor of Good News Unlimited and the presenter of the Unlimited radio spots, and The Big Question. Sign up to his free online course called Becoming a Follower of Jesus to learn about Jesus and His message.
Feature image: Photo by sohail shaikh on Unsplash