Romans 14:21

KJV

[It is] good neither to eat flesh, nor to drink wine, nor [any thing] whereby thy brother stumbleth, or is offended, or is made weak.

KJV (with Strong's)

It is good {G2570} neither {G3361} to eat {G5315} flesh {G2907}, nor {G3366} to drink {G4095} wine {G3631}, nor {G3366} any thing whereby {G1722}{G3739} thy {G4675} brother {G80} stumbleth {G4350}, or {G2228} is offended {G4624}, or {G2228} is made weak {G770}.

Complete Jewish Bible

What is good is not to eat meat or drink wine or do anything that causes your brother to stumble.

Berean Standard Bible

It is better not to eat meat or drink wine or to do anything to cause your brother to stumble.

American Standard Version

It is good not to eat flesh, nor to drink wine, nor to do anything whereby thy brother stumbleth.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Romans 14:21 encapsulates a profound principle of Christian ethics, urging believers to prioritize the spiritual well-being of their fellow Christians over personal liberties, particularly in matters of conscience. Paul argues that it is commendable to abstain from otherwise permissible activities, such as eating certain foods or drinking wine, if engaging in them would cause a brother or sister in Christ to stumble, be offended, or be weakened in their faith. This verse serves as a culmination of Paul's teaching on discerning freedom, emphasizing that love and unity within the body of Christ must always temper individual rights and preferences.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Romans 14:21 stands as the climactic summary of Paul's extended discourse in [Romans 14](/romans/14 "Romans 14 - Disputable Matters and Christian Liberty"), which addresses "disputable matters" (Romans 14:1) within the early Roman church. The chapter opens by urging believers to "receive one who is weak in the faith, but not to disputes over doubtful things." Paul identifies two groups: the "strong" in faith, who understood their freedom in Christ regarding dietary laws and the observance of special days (Romans 14:2, 14), and the "weak" in faith, whose consciences were still bound by scruples concerning these practices (Romans 14:2-3). Throughout the chapter, Paul argues that believers should not judge one another (Romans 14:10) but rather live to the Lord (Romans 14:7-9). He asserts that "the kingdom of God is not eating and drinking, but righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit" (Romans 14:17). Verse 21, therefore, functions as a powerful, practical application of these principles, calling for self-restraint and sacrificial love to preserve unity and prevent spiritual harm.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Roman church was a diverse community, comprising both Jewish and Gentile converts. This diversity led to tensions regarding practices rooted in their former lives or interpretations of the Old Testament. Jewish Christians, many of whom had observed strict dietary laws and Sabbath regulations their entire lives, struggled with the newfound freedom of Gentile believers who might eat meat previously offered to idols or disregard traditional fasts. Conversely, some Gentile believers, understanding their liberty in Christ, might have inadvertently flaunted their freedom, causing distress or leading their Jewish brethren to violate their consciences. The consumption of meat, especially, was problematic as much of it was sold in the market after being offered to pagan gods. Wine also carried cultural and religious significance. Paul's instruction was crucial for fostering genuine unity and mutual edification in a church grappling with differing convictions, preventing non-essential practices from becoming divisive stumbling blocks.
* **Key Themes:** Romans 14:21 significantly contributes to several overarching themes in Paul's letter to the Romans and beyond. The most prominent is **Christian Liberty and Responsibility**, highlighting that freedom in Christ is not a license for self-indulgence but an opportunity for loving service. This verse underscores the theme of **Love and Consideration for Others**, particularly for those whose faith or conscience may be weaker, echoing the broader commandment to "serve one another through love" found in [Galatians 5:13](/galatians/5-13 "Galatians 5:13 - Serve One Another Through Love"). It also strongly emphasizes **Avoiding Stumbling Blocks**, a recurring Pauline concern (e.g., [1 Corinthians 8:9-13](/1_corinthians/8-9-13 "1 Corinthians 8:9-13 - Do Not Cause Your Brother to Stumble")), where believers are cautioned against actions that could lead another into sin or spiritual harm. Finally, the verse promotes **Unity in the Body of Christ**, advocating for a harmonious community where mutual edification takes precedence over individual rights, aligning with Paul's call to "bear the infirmities of the weak" in [Romans 15:1](/romans/15-1 "Romans 15:1 - Bear the Infirmities of the Weak").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **good (Greek, _kalós'_):** This word signifies something that is intrinsically beautiful, excellent, or morally good, often in an outward or observable sense. It suggests that such an action is not merely permissible or expedient, but ethically praiseworthy and beneficial. In this context, abstaining from certain practices for the sake of a brother is not a legalistic requirement but a virtuous choice that reflects spiritual maturity and love.
* **stumbleth (Greek, _proskóptō'_):** Literally meaning "to strike against" or "to trip," this term refers to causing someone to falter or fall. In a spiritual sense, it implies leading a believer to a moral misstep, a momentary lapse, or a violation of their conscience, even if unintended. It suggests an action that causes a temporary, but still damaging, interruption to their spiritual walk.
* **is offended (Greek, _skandalízō'_):** Derived from _skandalon_, which refers to a "trap-stick," "snare," or "stumbling block," this word denotes causing someone to fall into sin, to lose faith, or to abandon their convictions. It implies a more severe spiritual consequence than merely stumbling, potentially leading to apostasy or a deep moral compromise. It's about setting a trap that leads to a significant spiritual downfall.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"It is good neither to eat flesh":** This clause directly addresses the specific issue of food, particularly meat, which was a point of contention in the Roman church due to its association with pagan sacrifices or Jewish dietary laws. Paul states that it is a morally excellent and beneficial act to refrain from eating meat if it causes spiritual harm to another. The "good" here is not about the inherent morality of eating meat (which Paul affirms is clean in Romans 14:14), but about the ethical choice to limit one's freedom out of love.
* **"nor to drink wine":** Similar to the eating of flesh, drinking wine was another "disputable matter." While wine itself is not inherently sinful, its consumption could be a stumbling block for those with stricter consciences, perhaps due to past struggles with idolatry, ascetic vows, or associations with pagan revelry. Paul extends the principle of self-limitation to include wine, reinforcing that the principle applies broadly to any practice that might cause spiritual harm.
* **"nor [any thing] whereby thy brother stumbleth, or is offended, or is made weak":** This final, comprehensive clause broadens the scope beyond just food and wine. The phrase "any thing whereby" (Greek: _en ho_, "in which" or "by which") signifies a general principle. The core concern is the impact on "thy brother" (Greek: _adelphos_, a fellow believer). The three verbs—"stumbleth," "is offended," and "is made weak"—describe a progression of negative spiritual impact. "Stumbleth" (proskóptō) refers to a moral misstep or faltering. "Is offended" (skandalízō) implies being led into sin or apostasy. "Is made weak" (asthenéō) means to become feeble, infirm, or to have one's faith or conscience undermined, causing them to doubt or act against their convictions. This comprehensive list emphasizes the gravity of causing spiritual harm and the breadth of situations to which this principle applies.

#### Literary Devices
Paul employs several literary devices to convey his powerful message in Romans 14:21. **Parallelism** is evident in the repeated negative commands ("neither to eat flesh, nor to drink wine, nor any thing"), which creates a rhythmic emphasis on the comprehensive nature of the self-restraint being advocated. The use of **Hyperbole** or **Exaggeration** might be seen in Paul's willingness to forego even good and permissible things (like meat and wine) for the sake of another, underscoring the extreme importance of love and unity over personal rights. This is not a literal command to abstain forever, but a rhetorical device to highlight the depth of sacrificial love required. Furthermore, the terms "stumbleth," "offended," and "made weak" function as a **Climax** or **Gradation**, illustrating a progression of increasingly severe spiritual consequences, from a mere tripping to a complete spiritual collapse. This rhetorical escalation underscores the gravity of causing a brother to fall.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Romans 14:21 stands as a powerful testament to the supremacy of love within Christian community, demonstrating how theological truth (Christian liberty) must always be applied with ethical wisdom and compassion. It underscores that while believers are indeed free from legalistic constraints, this freedom is not an end in itself but a means to serve God and neighbor. The verse challenges a purely individualistic understanding of faith, emphasizing the corporate responsibility believers have for one another's spiritual well-being. It highlights the delicate nature of conscience and the profound impact one believer's actions can have on another's walk with God, particularly for those who are still growing in their understanding or strength of faith. Ultimately, Paul redirects the focus from "what am I allowed to do?" to "what is most beneficial for my brother and for the unity of the body of Christ?"

* [Galatians 5:13](/galatians/5-13 "Galatians 5:13 - Serve One Another Through Love")
* [1 Corinthians 8:9-13](/1_corinthians/8-9-13 "1 Corinthians 8:9-13 - Do Not Cause Your Brother to Stumble")
* [1 Corinthians 10:23-24](/1_corinthians/10-23-24 "1 Corinthians 10:23-24 - All Things Are Lawful, But Not All Things Are Profitable")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Romans 14:21 offers a timeless and profound challenge for contemporary Christian living. While the specific issues of meat and wine may not be central for all believers today, the underlying principle of prioritizing the spiritual well-being of others over personal freedoms remains critically relevant. This verse calls us to a deep self-awareness and empathy, prompting us to consider how our choices—in entertainment, social media, political expression, fashion, or even how we spend our time and money—might impact those around us, especially new believers or those with more sensitive consciences. It compels us to ask: Is my exercise of liberty building up or potentially tearing down a fellow member of the body of Christ? In a world often characterized by individualism and the assertion of rights, this passage calls the church to be a counter-cultural community defined by sacrificial love, mutual respect, and a relentless pursuit of unity and edification. It reminds us that true maturity in faith is not just about knowing what we are permitted to do, but about discerning what is most loving and beneficial for the Kingdom of God.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What are some contemporary "disputable matters" in which my exercise of freedom might inadvertently cause a brother or sister to stumble, be offended, or be made weak?**
* **Am I willing to voluntarily limit my personal liberties or preferences for the sake of another believer's spiritual growth and the unity of the church?**
* **How can I cultivate a greater awareness and empathy for the consciences and convictions of others, especially those who may differ from my own understanding of Christian liberty?**
* **In what specific areas of my life can I apply the principle of "it is good neither to eat flesh, nor to drink wine, nor any thing whereby thy brother stumbleth"?**

### FAQ

**Does this verse mean Christians should never eat meat or drink wine?**

Answer: No, Romans 14:21 does not establish a universal prohibition against eating meat or drinking wine. Paul explicitly states earlier in the chapter that "nothing is unclean of itself" ([Romans 14:14](/romans/14-14 "Romans 14:14 - Nothing is Unclean of Itself")). The verse's primary purpose is to teach the principle of Christian love and consideration for others. It emphasizes that while these actions may be permissible in themselves, a believer should abstain from them if doing so would cause a fellow Christian to stumble, be offended, or be weakened in their faith. The focus is on the impact of one's actions on another's conscience and spiritual well-being, rather than on the inherent morality of the food or drink itself.

**What is the difference between "stumbleth," "is offended," and "is made weak" in this context?**

Answer: These three terms describe a progression of negative spiritual impact, highlighting the gravity of causing a brother to fall.
* **"Stumbleth" (Greek: _proskóptō_):** This refers to causing someone to trip or falter. In a spiritual sense, it means leading a believer into a moral misstep, a momentary lapse, or a violation of their conscience. It's about causing them to waver or take a wrong step.
* **"Is offended" (Greek: _skandalízō_):** Derived from the word for a "stumbling block" or "snare," this implies a more severe consequence. To "offend" here means to cause someone to fall into sin, to lose faith, or to abandon their convictions. It suggests a deeper spiritual harm, potentially leading to a significant moral or doctrinal compromise.
* **"Is made weak" (Greek: _asthenéō_):** This means to become feeble, infirm, or sick. Spiritually, it refers to undermining someone's faith, causing them to doubt their convictions, or pressuring them to act against their own conscience, thereby defiling it. It's about weakening their spiritual resolve or confidence in Christ.
Together, these terms underscore Paul's comprehensive concern for the spiritual health of every believer, urging self-sacrifice to prevent any degree of harm.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Romans 14:21 finds its ultimate fulfillment and perfect example in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The principle of foregoing one's rights and liberties for the sake of others is the very essence of Christ's incarnation and atoning sacrifice. Though He was "in the form of God" and "did not consider equality with God as something to be grasped," Christ "emptied Himself, taking the form of a bondservant" ([Philippians 2:6-7](/philippians/2-6-7 "Philippians 2:6-7 - Christ's Humiliation and Exaltation")). He did not live to please Himself, but bore "the reproaches of those who reproached You" ([Romans 15:3](/romans/15-3 "Romans 15:3 - Christ Did Not Please Himself")), ultimately laying down His life for the ungodly and the weak ([Romans 5:6-8](/romans/5-6-8 "Romans 5:6-8 - God Demonstrates His Love")). Jesus consistently prioritized the spiritual well-being of others, healing the sick, teaching the lost, and enduring the cross, all to remove the ultimate stumbling block of sin and reconcile humanity to God. His life was the perfect embodiment of not causing others to stumble, but rather building them up and leading them to salvation. Therefore, when Paul calls believers to consider their brother's conscience and sacrifice their own preferences, he is calling them to imitate the self-sacrificial love that defines their Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

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.

Romans 14:13

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.

Romans 15:1

¶ We then that are strong ought to bear the infirmities of the weak, and not to please ourselves.

Romans 15:2

Let every one of us please [his] neighbour for [his] good to edification.

Matthew 16:23

But he turned, and said unto Peter, Get thee behind me, Satan: thou art an offence unto me: for thou savourest not the things that be of God, but those that be of men.

Matthew 18:7

¶ Woe unto the world because of offences! for it must needs be that offences come; but woe to that man by whom the offence cometh!

Matthew 18:10

Take heed that ye despise not one of these little ones; for I say unto you, That in heaven their angels do always behold the face of my Father which is in heaven.