The BIG Picture (Shorts)

Part 1 of 4 • ⏱️ 2-Min Read Passage: Rom.15:1-7 Scripture Focus: "We then that are strong ought to bear the infirmities of the weak, and not to please ourselves." (Rom.15:1) Today's Lesson The apostle Paul addresses a vital principle of grace walk concerning how believers relate to one another in matters of liberty and conscience. When a believer grasps sound doctrine and understands their freedom in Christ, they are categorized as strong in the faith. Conversely, those whose understanding is still developing or whose consciences remain bound by former religious scruples are referred to as weak. The natural human tendency is to exercise liberty without regard for others, or to look down upon those who struggle with doubt. However, the rule of grace demands a higher standard. Believers who possess spiritual maturity are instructed to bear the infirmities of those who are weak rather than seeking their own gratification. This does not mean compromising sound doctrine, bu...

  Paul told grace believers to “quit you [or act manly] like men, be strong” (1Cor.16:13) and to “be strong in the Lord, and in the power of His might” (Eph.6:10). We must not succumb to fear nor surrender to Satan who wages spiritual warfare against us. We must be strong! God’s power is accessed “by His Spirit in the inner man” (Eph.3:16). We cannot overcome Satan with our strength alone, but we can prevail by allowing God's words to work within us. How do we strengthen our inner “new man” in Christ? Paul instructs us to equip ourselves with “the whole armour of God” (Eph.6:11). This armour is the spiritual walk that comes from obedience to the Word within us. It will lead us in (v.14), living and sharing the gospel (v.15), protecting our minds through faith in God’s Word (v.16), living in the confidence of our eternal hope (v.17a), using the Scriptures to cut through Satan’s lies (v.17b), and being constant in prayer (v.18). Friends, surrounded yourselves by the 'words' o...