Romans 14:15
But if thy brother be grieved with thy meat, now walkest thou not charitably. Destroy not him with thy meat, for whom Christ died.
Romans 14:15 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse, the apostle Paul is addressing the importance of showing love and consideration to others, especially when it comes to matters of personal conviction and belief. Paul is emphasizing that if a fellow believer is distressed or offended by something that may seem trivial to another, it is essential to take their feelings into consideration. He warns against causing harm or stumbling to others, even if it may seem insignificant, because every individual is precious in the eyes of Christ and was worth His sacrifice. This verse highlights the principle of putting others before oneself and acting in a way that reflects the love and compassion of Christ. It serves as a reminder to always be mindful of how our actions and choices may impact those around us, and to prioritize unity, understanding, and empathy in our interactions with our brothers and sisters in Christ.
Theological Overview
In this verse, the Apostle Paul is addressing a situation in which certain believers in the early church were causing distress to their fellow believers by eating meat that had been sacrificed to idols. The theological interpretation of this verse emphasizes the importance of showing love and consideration towards others, especially those whose conscience may be weak in matters of faith. Paul is reminding the believers that if their actions cause harm or offense to their brothers and sisters in Christ, they are not walking in love. The phrase "Destroy not him with thy meat, for whom Christ died" underscores the sacrificial love of Jesus Christ who gave His life for all, regardless of their spiritual maturity or beliefs. This verse serves as a reminder to prioritize unity, love, and edification in the body of Christ, rather than asserting one's own freedoms or rights at the expense of others.
Romans 14:15 in other translations
American Standard Version
For if because of meat thy brother is grieved, thou walkest no longer in love. Destroy not with thy meat him for whom Christ died.
World English Bible
Yet if because of food your brother is grieved, you walk no longer in love. Don’t destroy with your food him for whom Christ died.
Douay-Rheims
For if, because of thy meat, thy brother be grieved, thou walkest not now according to charity. Destroy not him with thy meat, for whom Christ died.
Geneva Bible (1599)
But if thy brother be grieued for the meate, nowe walkest thou not charitably: destroy not him with thy meate, for whome Christ dyed.