Whatever Is Not Of Faith Is Sin

“So then, let us pursue what makes for peace and for building up one another. Do not destroy the work of God for the sake of food. For although all things are clean, it is wrong to cause anyone to stumble by what you eat. It is good not to eat meat or drink wine or to do anything that causes your brother to stumble. The faith you have, keep to yourself before God. Blessed is the one who does not judge himself by what he approves. But the man who doubts is condemned if he eats, because he does not do so from faith, and whatever is not from faith is sin.” Romans 14:19-23 NET

Some profound insights in the above verses illuminate our underlying motives regarding our dietary choices. For instance, we have been granted complete freedom regarding what we eat, liberating us from the once-restrictive dietary laws set forth by Moses in the Old Testament. Yet, this freedom comes with a crucial responsibility: we must consider the practical and health-related implications of our food selections, particularly when it involves consuming pork.

While delicious and culturally significant in many cuisines, pork must be cooked thoroughly to eradicate harmful parasites like Trichinella spiralis and various bacteria that can lurk within its muscle tissue. If not prepared properly, these pathogens can lead to serious health issues, reminding us that our freedoms should also encompass a duty to safeguard our well-being.

Eating pork is only one example of a food that can pose health risks, but other foods require equal, if not greater, caution. For instance, certain types of fish, such as blowfish (or fugu), contain potent toxins that can be lethal if not prepared properly. The risks associated with consuming improperly prepared meat, including pork and other potentially hazardous foods, are significant and can lead to severe foodborne illnesses or poisoning.

To minimize these risks, it is essential to follow specific preparation guidelines. For example, when handling pork, it is necessary to cook it to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and rest for three minutes to eliminate harmful bacteria. Similarly, the preparation of blowfish requires expert training and meticulous attention to detail to safely remove toxic organs and ensure that the flesh is safe for consumption.

Understanding these dangers highlights the importance of wisdom and practicality in food preparation. Taking proper precautions and remaining vigilant can help prevent food-related health issues and ensure that meals are both safe and enjoyable.

Moreover, while there is no specific legal prohibition against eating pork or blowfish, the guiding principle behind our choices should be the pursuit of peace and the intention to uplift those around us. It is crucial to engage in our freedoms with mindfulness and compassion rather than indulging in exercising our liberties. When we act without responsibility, we risk fostering pride and self-righteousness, attitudes that ultimately detract from our communal bonds. Therefore, we should navigate our freedoms thoughtfully, ensuring that our choices are rooted in a commitment to enhance the welfare of our community and to nurture a supportive, harmonious environment for all by not violating the choices of others.

Paul’s teachings powerfully illuminate the need to be acutely aware of the vulnerabilities of others when making personal decisions. This principle becomes particularly relevant in everyday situations, like choosing whether to enjoy a juicy steak in a gathering where close friends might be following a strict vegetarian diet for ethical or health reasons or sipping a glass of wine in the company of someone who is in recovery from alcoholism. In these moments, our choices carry weight and the potential to impact those around us profoundly.

By prioritizing empathy and understanding, we can cultivate an accepting and highly supportive atmosphere that accepts each individual’s unique struggles and circumstances. The concept that we are our brother’s keeper is a poignant reminder of our collective responsibility to care for one another, nurturing a community where everyone feels safe, respected, and valued. Therefore, we must continually reflect on how our actions resonate with others, striving to make mindful choices that enhance the well-being of all and foster genuine caring connections among us.

If your faith bestows upon you a profound sense of freedom in Christ, it is crucial to cherish that personal revelation between you and God. This intimate understanding of faith is uniquely yours and may not resonate with everyone similarly. This freedom is a precious blessing, as it empowers you to navigate your spiritual journey unencumbered by the judgments or perceptions of others.

However, it is important to recognize that not everyone possesses the strength of mind or the character to fully embrace such a liberating faith. Each person’s spiritual journey is like a tapestry woven from unique experiences, challenges, and perspectives. As such, cultivating a deep sense of empathy becomes essential.

Empathy transcends mere kindness; it serves as a lifeline for fostering unity within the diverse body of Christ. By actively understanding and supporting others in their faith journeys, we create a nurturing environment where all can grow and flourish spiritually. Despite the varied levels of faith and freedom, this collective harmony enriches our community and beautifully reflects Christ’s love in our interactions. In this way, we encourage one another to explore the depths of their personal beliefs while remaining anchored in the shared foundation of our faith.

But the man who doubts or does not possess the freedom to eat in freedom is condemned if he eats, not because it is unlawful, but because his heart condemns him through guilt. He still judges himself by laws, rules, and ordinances because his actions do not stem from faith.

In this passage, Paul presents a profound statement: “Whatever is not of faith is sin.” This assertion extends beyond mere dietary choices; it encompasses every facet of our Christian lives. Faith is the essential framework through which we navigate the complexities of both the natural and spiritual realms.

We have been granted a unique lens that helps us interpret our experiences in light of our relationship with Christ. This lens allows us to view all aspects of our lives—our decisions, relationships, and challenges—through our faith in God. When we intentionally choose to remove this lens and rely on our own understanding or impulses, we take actions that are considered sinful. This is because such choices depart from the true intention of trusting God’s wisdom and plans for our lives.

Faith is not just a belief but a transformative power that profoundly changes our existence, taking us from spiritual death to vibrant life in Christ Jesus. Through faith, we receive grace, navigate our spiritual journey, and find purpose in our daily experiences. In this way, faith becomes the cornerstone of our identity as believers, shaping our thoughts, actions, and ultimate destiny.

Stephen Barnett