Romans 13-14

Paul says the grace-filled life has implications for how we live in the real world. We live with grace toward our governing authorities (13:1 ) and with gentleness and kindness toward our neighbors (13:9,10). The implications of grace address the fractious differences between Jew and Gentile in the church, differences stemming from culture, conscience, and ritual food laws.

No matter how strongly held, Paul says that we must not use these differences to create stumbling blocks for others. While Paul teaches that the food laws are no longer binding, he has a bigger goal than stating truth. His command is that we “do what leads to peace” (14:19). Being right is not enough. Our goal is not winning arguments but “edification” (19).