Romans Chapter 15 Vs. 1

 

The Example of Christ

We then that are strong ought to bear the infirmities of the weak, and not to please ourselves. Rom 15:1

We then that... The strong and enlightened ones must tolerate and bear with the weaker and less enlightened brethren until they, too, become strong in faith and knowledge (Rom. 15:1-3).

ought to bear... We know that to whom much knowledge of the Word is given, much is required.

1Thes. 5:14: “Now we exhort you, brethren, warn them that are unruly, comfort the feebleminded, support the weak, be patient toward all [men].”

Another Scripture we need to look at is Luke 12:

Luke 12:48 “But he that knew not, and did commit things worthy of stripes, shall be beaten with few [stripes]. For unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall be much required: and to whom men have committed much, of him they will ask the more.” You see, God holds us responsible for what we know. The shepherds that God has placed over the flock, God requires to bring His message to the sheep.

and not to... The strong are not to simply tolerate the weaknesses of their weaker brothers; they are to help the weak shoulder their burdens by showing loving and practical consideration for them.

As Imitators Of Christ

Paul had written that Christians should not despise or condemn others (Rom. 14:1-12) nor should they hinder the conduct of other Christians (Rom. 14:13-23). Now he gave a third principle to observe when a believer is dealing with fellow Christians: he is to follow the example of the Lord Jesus Christ. Jesus was supremely the Person who ministered on behalf of others, not for Himself. It is fitting, therefore, that those who take His name should imitate Him.

Paul summarized the previous discussion (Rom. 14:1-23) by saying, We who are strong (obviously in convictions and conscience) ought (pres. tense, emphasizing continuing obligation; its first position in the sentence underscores its importance) to bear with the failings (lit., “infirmities, weaknesses”) of the weak (lit., “non-strong”). The strong ought not despise the weak; they ought to bear with them. Also the strong should not seek to please themselves.