IMPACT BY THE BOOK (10)

“For whatever things were written before were written for our LEARNING…” – Romans 15:4a

Instruction, Patience, Comfort, and Hope are key among the precious gems of IMPACT by the BOOK: “For whatever things were written before were written for our learning, that we through the patience and comfort of the Scriptures might have hope” (Rom.15:4). Today’s  passage highlights the importance of unity and mutual support among Believers with differing levels of understanding and conviction. It calls on those who are “strong” in faith to bear with the “weak” and to prioritize the edification of others over personal preferences (vv.1-2). This is illustrated by the Example of Christ, who did not seek to please Himself, but to serve others. Believers are therefore encouraged to live in harmony and mutual encouragement for God’s Glory (v.6). 

In presenting Christ's example of selflessness and putting the needs of others before His own, the Value of Scripture is brought to prominence by pointing to Psalm 69:9, “Because zeal for Your house has eaten me up, and the reproaches of those who reproach You have fallen on me.” Christ willingly embraced the insults and rejection that came with His Calling. By inference, the Old Testament writings are valuable for providing instruction, guidance, endurance, and encouragement for living a godly life. They offer inspiration, reassurance, and hope through the examples of faith, endurance, and perseverance they contain.  

In essence, the purpose of Scripture is to provide learning or instruction, patience, comfort, and hope through its teachings. We gain endurance, encouragement, and hope from the many men and women who have gone through much worse than we ever will: “This hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and steadfast, and which enters the Presence behind the veil” (Heb.6:19). All of these are made possible by “The God of patience and comfort” Himself (v.5).

In addition, through the instrumentality of the Book – the Holy Scriptures, we are enabled, equipped and empowered to know, understand, and obey divine instructions, including the following:

Bearing with the Weak: “We then who are strong ought to bear with the scruples of the weak, and not to please ourselves” (v.1). Those with stronger faith can be patient and understanding with those who are still developing in their understanding of Christian liberty, or struggling with weaker consciences regarding practices like dietary restrictions or observing specific days. 

Not Pleasing Ourselves: “Let each of us please his neighbor for his good, leading to edification” (v.2). This is a call to prioritize the well-being, edification, and spiritual growth of fellow believers over personal preferences and selfish desires.  

Imitating Christ: “Therefore receive one another, just as Christ also received us, to the glory of God” (v.7). His selfless example of service and sacrificial love is presented as the ultimate Model for believers to follow in relating with one another.