Conscience and disputed practices

Romans 14; 1 Corinthians 8

Use your preferred translation.

How can we avoid contempt and coercion while recognizing that some choices are morally consequential?

• What does the passage say? Restate it in your own words before interpreting it.
• Who is speaking, and to whom?
• What is the surrounding context — what comes just before and after?
• Which words or phrases repeat or stand out?

1. Paul addresses both the one who eats and the one who abstains. What warning does he give each?
2. In 1 Corinthians 8, knowledge “puffs up” but love “builds up.” How does that apply to disagreements among believers?
3. How can we tell the difference between a matter of conscience and a matter Scripture treats as clearly wrong?

Is there a practice where you judge others or pressure them toward your view?

Set aside one freedom this week for the sake of someone whose conscience differs from yours.

Ask God for humility in disputed matters and clarity in matters He has made plain.