Romans 15:1

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

We {G2249} then {G1161} that are strong {G1415} ought {G3784} to bear {G941} the infirmities {G771} of the weak {G102}, and {G2532} not {G3361} to please {G700} ourselves {G1438}.

So we who are strong have a duty to bear the weaknesses of those who are not strong, rather than please ourselves.

We who are strong ought to bear with the shortcomings of the weak and not to please ourselves.

Now we that are strong ought to bear the infirmities of the weak, and not to please ourselves.

Romans 15:1 (KJV) delivers a powerful exhortation concerning Christian maturity and communal responsibility. It calls those who possess a robust understanding of their freedom in Christ to exercise self-restraint and compassion towards fellow believers who may have a more sensitive or developing conscience.

Context

This verse serves as a crucial summary and transition from the extensive discussion in Romans Chapter 14. Paul addresses the practical challenges faced by the early church in Rome, specifically the tensions between "the strong" and "the weak." The "strong" were believers who understood that all foods were permissible and all days were equally sanctified (e.g., not observing specific dietary laws or holy days, understanding that these were matters of Christian liberty). The "weak," on the other hand, had scruples, perhaps due to their former Jewish background or newfound faith, and felt compelled to adhere to certain dietary restrictions or observe particular days. Paul's overarching message is that Christian liberty should not be used selfishly, but always with consideration for the conscience and spiritual well-being of others.

Key Themes

  • Bearing Burdens and Self-Sacrifice: The core message is that those who are spiritually mature and understand their freedom should not use it to please themselves. Instead, they ought to "bear the infirmities of the weak." This implies a willingness to forgo personal preferences or rights for the sake of another's spiritual growth and peace. It's an act of selfless love and humility, echoing the principle of bearing one another's burdens.
  • Unity and Edification: The goal of this self-restraint is not weakness but strength for the collective body. By accommodating the "weak," the "strong" foster unity, prevent division, and ensure that no brother or sister is caused to stumble in their faith (1 Corinthians 8:9). The focus shifts from individual rights to communal edification.
  • Christ-like Example: Though not explicitly stated in this verse, the subsequent verses in Romans 15 point to Christ as the ultimate example of one who did not please Himself but bore the reproaches of others, ultimately for our salvation. This sets the standard for Christian conduct.

Linguistic Insights

The term "strong" (Greek: dynatoi) refers to those who are spiritually mature and firm in their faith, possessing a clear understanding of Christian liberty. Conversely, "weak" (Greek: adynatoi) describes those who are not necessarily morally deficient, but whose faith or conscience is less robust regarding certain practices. The verb "bear" (Greek: bastazein) means to carry, to endure, or to support. It implies an active, empathetic effort to lighten the load or accommodate the scruples of another, rather than merely tolerating them or ignoring their sensitivities.

Practical Application

Romans 15:1 remains profoundly relevant for believers today. It challenges us to look beyond our own comfort and preferences in matters of Christian liberty, whether it's regarding entertainment, specific practices, or even theological nuances that aren't central to salvation. It calls for empathy and patience within the church, reminding us that genuine love prioritizes the spiritual well-being of others over asserting our own rights. We are encouraged to build up, not tear down; to unify, not divide. This verse serves as a timeless reminder that our freedom in Christ is given not for self-indulgence, but for the loving service and edification of our fellow believers, fostering a harmonious and Christ-honoring community.

Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • 1 Thessalonians 5:14

    Now we exhort you, brethren, warn them that are unruly, comfort the feebleminded, support the weak, be patient toward all [men].

  • Romans 14:1

    ¶ Him that is weak in the faith receive ye, [but] not to doubtful disputations.

  • Galatians 6:1

    ¶ Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted.

  • Galatians 6:2

    Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ.

  • 1 Corinthians 9:22

    To the weak became I as weak, that I might gain the weak: I am made all things to all [men], that I might by all means save some.

  • 1 Corinthians 12:22

    Nay, much more those members of the body, which seem to be more feeble, are necessary:

  • 1 Corinthians 12:24

    For our comely [parts] have no need: but God hath tempered the body together, having given more abundant honour to that [part] which lacked:

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