Romans 14 13

Romans 14:13 kjv

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 14:13 nkjv

Therefore let us not judge one another anymore, but rather resolve this, not to put a stumbling block or a cause to fall in our brother's way.

Romans 14:13 niv

Therefore let us stop passing judgment on one another. Instead, make up your mind not to put any stumbling block or obstacle in the way of a brother or sister.

Romans 14:13 esv

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.

Romans 14:13 nlt

So let's stop condemning each other. Decide instead to live in such a way that you will not cause another believer to stumble and fall.

Romans 14 verses

Romans 14 13 Meaning

Cease judging one another. Instead, let everyone aim to live without causing their brother or sister to stumble.

Romans 14 13 Context

Romans 14 addresses the issue of disagreements within the Roman church, primarily concerning differing practices related to food laws and observance of special days. These disputes arose between "strong" believers, who understood their freedom in Christ regarding these matters, and "weak" believers, who still adhered strictly to certain Old Testament regulations, possibly out of conscience or limited understanding.

Paul's instruction in verse 13 follows his broader theme of Christian unity and love. He urges believers not to judge each other over matters that do not pertain to fundamental salvation but are rather secondary issues where conscience or personal conviction may vary. The emphasis is on building up the body of Christ rather than causing division or spiritual harm through judgment or inconsiderate actions. The historical context involves a church with mixed Jewish and Gentile believers, each bringing their understanding of biblical law and custom.

Romans 14 13 Word Analysis

• $\pi\acute{\alpha}\nu \tau\omega\varsigma$ (pantōs): Indeed, certainly, assuredly, altogether. Used here to emphasize the definitive nature of the directive.
• $\kappa\rho\acute{\imath}\nu\omega\mu\epsilon\nu$ (krinōmen): We judge, we discern, we decide. Refers to the act of passing a critical judgment or evaluation on another believer's actions or motives.
• $\dot{\alpha}\lambda\lambda$\accent ~` \alpha$ (alla): But, rather, instead. A strong adversative, introducing a contrasting and preferred course of action.
• $\pi\rho\acute{o}$ (pro): Before, in front of. Preposition indicating direction or placement.
• $\sigma\kappa\acute{ \iota} \nu\delta\acute{ \alpha} \lambda\omega\nu$ (skandalōn): Stumbling block, snare, offense. Refers to anything that causes another person to fall away from righteousness or spiritual progress. It signifies something that trips someone up spiritually.
• $\tau\acute{i}$ (ti): A thing, something. Used in conjunction with the previous word.
• $\dot{\eta$ (hē): Or, and. Conjunction linking two possible causes for stumbling.
• $\dot{\epsilon}\gamma\kappa\acute{ \omicron}\pi\acute{\eta}\nu$ (enkopēn): Hindrance, impediment, obstruction. Something that impedes or obstructs progress, similar to a stumble. It's a blockade or difficulty placed in someone's way.

Word-group analysis

• $\mu\eta \pi \rho\acute{ \omicron} \sigma \omega \pi \iota\acute{\alpha}$ $\kappa\rho\acute{ \iota} \nu\omega \mu\epsilon \nu$ $\dot{\alpha}\lambda\lambda$\accent ~` \alpha$: This phrase conveys the instruction: "do not pass judgment on one another" or "do not judge according to outward appearance/basis." It directly contrasts the practice of judgment with a more charitable stance.
• $\tau\acute{i} \nu \alpha$ $\sigma\kappa\acute{ \iota} \nu\delta\acute{ \alpha} \lambda\omega \nu$ $\dot{\eta$ $\dot{\epsilon}\gamma\kappa\acute{ \omicron}\pi\acute{\eta}\nu$ $\tau\acute{ \iota}$: This signifies "a stumbling block or a hindrance." The phrase encapsulates the idea of causing a fellow believer to fall, whether through offensive actions or by creating obstacles to their spiritual walk. It covers both overt offenses and subtle obstructions.

Romans 14 13 Bonus Section

This verse encapsulates a core principle of Christian ethics: liberty exercised with responsibility towards others. The Greek words $\sigma\kappa\acute{ \iota} \nu\delta\acute{ \alpha} \lambda\omega \nu$ and $\dot{\epsilon}\gamma\kappa\acute{ \omicron}\pi\acute{\eta}\nu$ are significant because they highlight the serious spiritual damage that can result from thoughtless actions or judgmental attitudes. It's not just about minor offenses but about causing a spiritual fall or blocking someone's path with God. The ultimate standard for all actions, as mentioned in the broader context, is love and edification, all done for the glory of God (1 Cor. 10:31). This verse directly relates to the wider biblical theme of "causing others to sin," which is strongly condemned throughout Scripture.

Romans 14 13 Commentary

Paul firmly redirects the believers away from passing judgment on one another concerning secondary issues. Instead, the focus should be on intentionally avoiding actions that could cause a fellow believer to stumble or become hindered in their spiritual journey. This call to prioritize the spiritual well-being of others over personal convictions on non-essential matters is a hallmark of mature Christian conduct and reflects the self-giving love demonstrated by Christ. It is about building up, not tearing down, within the community of faith.

• A strong believer should not flaunt their freedom in a way that makes a weaker believer feel compelled to act against their conscience.
• This principle means considering the potential impact of our choices on those around us, especially fellow Christians.
• It's a call to humility, empathy, and a sincere desire for the spiritual growth and stability of all members of the body of Christ.