Romans 14:21 (KJV)

What does Romans 14:21 mean?

Romans 14:21 says that it is good to avoid eating meat, drinking wine, or doing anything else if it might cause another believer to stumble, be offended, or become spiritually weak. The verse highlights the importance of considering how your actions affect the faith and conscience of others, especially within the Christian community.

Paul is writing to the believers in Rome, addressing disagreements about what foods are acceptable to eat and whether drinking wine is appropriate. The main concern is not the food or drink itself, but the impact these choices might have on fellow believers who may have different convictions or weaker consciences. Paul encourages putting the spiritual well-being of others ahead of personal freedoms.

The Greek behind Romans 14:21

• καλόν (kalon, "good" - G2570): This word means something that is not just morally right but also beneficial or fitting in a situation. Here, it emphasizes that choosing to abstain is a positive and considerate action.
• σκανδαλίζεται (skandalizetai, "offended" - G4624): This Greek word carries the sense of causing someone to trip up or fall into sin. Paul is concerned about actions that might lead another believer into spiritual trouble.
• ἀσθενεῖ (asthenei, "made weak" - G770): This word means to be weakened, especially in faith or conscience. The focus is on not undermining the spiritual strength of others by your choices.
• κρέα (krea, "flesh" - G2907): This refers specifically to meat, which was a point of controversy in the early church, especially regarding food that may have been offered to idols.

Why Romans 14:21 matters

• Romans 14:21 clarifies that Christian freedom is not just about personal rights, but about caring for the spiritual health of others in the community.
• The verse helps prevent misunderstanding by showing that Paul is not making rules about food and drink for their own sake, but is concerned about love and sensitivity toward others.
• This verse ties into the larger theme of Romans 14, where Paul urges believers to avoid judging one another and to act in ways that build up, rather than harm, the faith of others.