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In Romans 14:1, Paul writes, “As for the one who is weak in the faith, welcome him, but not to quarrel over opinions” (ESV). This verse introduces a crucial teaching on how believers should treat those “weak in the faith” in order to maintain peace and unity within the body of Christ.
Weak in the faith characterizes believers whose understanding of Christian liberty is limited or their application of it is underdeveloped. In the broader context of Romans 14, Paul discusses issues such as eating certain foods and observing specific days. Those who are “weak in the faith” may hold stricter views on these matters, believing that certain practices are necessary for maintaining their relationship with God. This weakness is not a lack of genuine faith but rather a sensitivity to issues of conscience that may lead to unnecessary restrictions on their freedom in Christ.
Being “weak in the faith” often stems from a lack of understanding of the gospel’s implications. We have liberty in Christ. We are free from the bondage of the law. Paul emphasizes that the kingdom of God is not about external matters like food and drink but “righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit” (Romans 14:17, ESV). Those “weak in the faith” may not yet grasp the freedom that comes from being justified by faith alone. As a result, they may place undue importance on non-essentials. What they need is further growth in understanding the fullness of their freedom in Christ.
Paul’s instruction to welcome those “weak in the faith” without quarreling over opinions underscores the crucial nature of peace and unity within the church. There is a place for all believers, and those who are “weak in the faith” should not be looked down upon or excluded. Neither should they be pressured to change their views immediately. Instead, mature believers are called to bear with the immature in love, respecting their conscience while gently guiding them toward greater understanding. In Galatians 6:1–2, Paul advises, “Brothers, if anyone is caught in any transgression, you who are spiritual should restore him in a spirit of gentleness. Keep watch on yourself, lest you too be tempted. Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ” (ESV). This principle applies to those “weak in the faith.” The stronger believer supports the weaker, not through argument, but through patient teaching and example.
The body of Christ is composed of believers at different stages of spiritual growth, and those who are “weak in the faith” are part of this diversity. Paul’s counsel in Romans 14 encourages believers to recognize that not everyone has the same level of understanding or conviction about certain practices. In 1 Corinthians 8:7, Paul states, “Not all possess this knowledge [that an idol is nothing]. But some, through former association with idols, eat food as really offered to an idol, and their conscience, being weak, is defiled” (ESV). This acknowledgment of varying maturity levels calls for a response of grace and patience from those who are stronger in faith.
Being “weak in the faith” also involves a susceptibility to stumbling over issues that others may find inconsequential. Paul warns in Romans 14:13, “Therefore let us not pass judgment on one another any longer, but rather decide never to put a stumbling block or hindrance in the way of a brother” (ESV). Those “weak in the faith” may be more easily led into doubt or confusion by the actions of others, especially if those actions conflict with their weak conscience. God requires stronger believers to exercise their freedom with consideration and love, ensuring that their actions do not harm the spiritual well-being of their weaker brothers and sisters.
John Bunyan, in part 2 of his allegory The Pilgrim’s Progress, illustrates the proper attitude of the stronger Christian toward the weaker. A little band of travelers sets out on their journey. Among them are some weak ones: Feeble-mind, Ready-to-Halt, Despondency, and Much-afraid. Their guide is Great-Heart. The weaker pilgrims fear that they will be a burden to the rest and slow them down. To dispel such fears, Great-Heart says, “I have it in commission to comfort the feeble-minded, and to support the weak. You must needs go along with us; we will wait for you; we will lend you our help; we will deny ourselves of some things, both opinionative and practical, for your sake: we will not enter into doubtful disputations before you; we will be made all things to you, rather than you shall be left behind” (Bunyan, J., The Pilgrim’s Progress, part 2, New American Library, a div. of Penguin Books, 1981, p. 247).
Romans 14:1 reminds us of the need for humility and dependence on God’s grace. All believers, at various points in their lives, have areas where they may be “weak in the faith.” Thus, the call to welcome and support those who are weak is also a reminder of our need for God’s grace. In Romans 15:1, Paul exhorts, “We who are strong have an obligation to bear with the failings of the weak, and not to please ourselves” (ESV). This mutual support within the body of Christ ensures that the weak and the strong are built up in their faith, growing together in peace and unity.
