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Romans 14:3
The one who eats everything must not treat with contempt the one who does not, and the one who does not eat everything must not judge the one who does, for God has accepted them
[From the New International Version]
This verse, found in Romans 14:3, teaches us about acceptance and respect for different personal choices. The Apostle Paul is addressing a situation where believers had differing opinions on what foods were acceptable to eat. He emphasizes that those who eat everything should not look down on those who do not, and vice versa.
Paul’s main point is that we should not judge each other based on these personal choices. Whether someone chooses to eat all foods or abstain from certain ones, both decisions are acceptable to God. This verse encourages us to respect each other’s choices and avoid creating divisions over matters not central to our faith.
The underlying message is about unity and acceptance within the community of believers. God has accepted us regardless of our individual practices and preferences. Therefore, we should also accept and respect one another, fostering a community built on love, understanding, and mutual respect. This teaches us to focus on what unites us rather than what divides us.