Then let us not criticize one another anymore, but rather determine this— not to put an obstacle or a stumbling block or a source of temptation in another believer’s way.
Romans 14:13 AMP
We would not be humans if we had no weakness. Hence, one of the reasons we should not make ourselves a judge over others because of the same – even as we can see from today’s verse. The man who properly knows himself will make a large allowance for others.
If the Pharisee had known himself, had seen how contemptible his sanctimonious and sinful pride was in the view of the All-holy, he would not have directed a scornful look at the publican. Many a time, we also, like the Pharisees, think too highly of ourselves and thus scorn others.
Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother’s eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? How can you say to your brother, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye,’ when all the time there is a plank in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye.
Matthew 7:3-5 NIV
God does not hold us responsible for other’s actions, but He does hold us responsible for our influence on them. Let us, therefore, determine not to be a stumbling block unto others, believers or not. It is important to avoid becoming a source of temptation for others in all our actions and endeavours.
At its core, the verse of today is a call to unity and a warning against being judgmental. This is an important reminder for Christians who may be tempted to criticize others. The verse implies that Christians have a duty to assist others in avoiding sin, not just to avoid it themselves.
This is a call to humility and love. It reminds us that we are all imperfect and in need of grace, and that we should extend that grace to others as well. Rather than focusing on our differences or judging one another, we should seek to build unity and respect one another.
Romans 14:13 reminds us that this requires more than just knowing scripture or having a strong faith. It requires us to live out that faith in a way that honors God and shows love to our neighbors. Through unity and avoiding judgmentalism, Christians can be effective ambassadors of Christ who set examples for the world.
