Let us not therefore judge one another any more: but judge this rather, that no man put a stumblingblock or an occasion to fall in [his] brother's way.
Let us {G2919} not therefore {G3767} judge {G2919} one another {G240} any more {G3371}: but {G235} judge {G2919} this {G5124} rather {G3123}, that no man {G3361} put {G5087} a stumblingblock {G4348} or {G2228} an occasion to fall {G4625} in his brother's way {G80}.
Therefore, let’s stop passing judgment on each other! Instead, make this one judgment — not to put a stumbling block or a snare in a brother’s way.
Therefore let us stop judging one another. Instead, make up your mind not to put any stumbling block or obstacle in your brother’s way.
Let us not therefore judge one another any more: but judge ye this rather, that no man put a stumblingblock in his brother’s way, or an occasion of falling.
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2 Corinthians 6:3
Giving no offence in any thing, that the ministry be not blamed: -
James 4:11
¶ Speak not evil one of another, brethren. He that speaketh evil of [his] brother, and judgeth his brother, speaketh evil of the law, and judgeth the law: but if thou judge the law, thou art not a doer of the law, but a judge. -
1 Corinthians 8:9
But take heed lest by any means this liberty of yours become a stumblingblock to them that are weak. -
1 Corinthians 8:13
Wherefore, if meat make my brother to offend, I will eat no flesh while the world standeth, lest I make my brother to offend. -
Luke 12:57
Yea, and why even of yourselves judge ye not what is right? -
Matthew 7:1
¶ Judge not, that ye be not judged. -
Isaiah 57:14
And shall say, Cast ye up, cast ye up, prepare the way, take up the stumblingblock out of the way of my people.
Commentary on Romans 14:13 (KJV)
Romans 14:13 serves as a pivotal admonition for Christian conduct, shifting the focus from judging others to examining one's own actions. It is a powerful call for believers to prioritize unity and love over personal judgments and actions that could cause fellow Christians to stumble in their faith.
Context
The Apostle Paul addresses divisions within the early Roman church concerning matters of conscience, specifically dietary laws (eating meat versus vegetarianism) and the observance of certain days. Some believers, whom Paul refers to as "the weak in faith," felt bound by particular practices, while others, "the strong in faith," understood their full liberty in Christ. Paul emphasizes that individual convictions on non-essential matters should not lead to condemnation or division within the body of Christ. This verse transitions from the negative command (not to judge) to the positive responsibility (not to cause a brother or sister to stumble). The broader discussion begins in Romans 14:1, urging believers to receive one another without passing judgment on disputable matters.
Key Themes
Linguistic Insights
The Greek word for "judge" (krino - κρίνω) in the first part of the verse implies making a definitive, often condemning, decision or separation. Paul is not prohibiting discernment, but rather a censorious, critical spirit that undermines Christian fellowship and unity.
The terms "stumblingblock" (proskomma - πρόσκομμα) and "occasion to fall" (skandalon - σκάνδαλον) are significant. Proskomma literally means "a block to trip over" or an obstacle. Skandalon originally referred to the bait-stick of a trap, which springs and causes the animal to fall. In a spiritual sense, both terms emphasize anything that causes another believer to falter in their faith, to sin, to doubt, or to abandon their convictions, particularly due to the actions or perceived freedom of another believer.
Practical Application
This verse is profoundly relevant for contemporary Christian communities, where differences in opinion on various social, cultural, or even secondary theological issues can create division. It calls believers to exercise their freedom with wisdom, humility, and compassion, particularly towards those with weaker or different consciences.
Before acting or speaking, we are encouraged to ask: "Will this action, even if permissible for me, cause a brother or sister to stumble, doubt their faith, or feel condemned?" It encourages a spirit of self-sacrifice and prioritizing the spiritual well-being of others above personal preferences or perceived rights. In a world often marked by sharp divisions, this verse offers a timeless reminder of the importance of unity, mutual respect, and love within the body of Christ.