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"One person esteems one day above another..."

Text: Romans 14:5

ANOTHER AREA OF DISPUTE

Paul’s word of exhortation must be borne in mind, especially with reference to the problem of “disputes” (Romans 14:1). From the issue of food, Paul went on to deal with another area of dispute- the observance of special days.

“One person esteems one day above another;
another esteems every day alike.
let each be fully convinced in his own mind.”
Romans 14:5

1. Jewish scruples

a) The Jews observed many special days.

b) These may be traced all the way back to deep historical roots.

c) The feasts of the LORD may be in Paul’s mind.

d) The Jews (including believers) would be more inclined to esteem one day above another.

2. Gentile background

a) The Gentiles did not have the rich religious legacy of their Jewish brethren.

b) Thus they tended not to observe special days as the Jews did.

c) To Gentile believers, every day is alike.

3. “Let each be fully convinced in his own mind”

a) Paul refused to take sides.

b) He did not lay down any laws for the Church.

c) Each believer is entitled to keep his opinion.

i) Each person is allowed to keep his conviction.

ii) There is no New Testament law on this subject.

iii) The individual is therefore free to observe certain special days.

iv) This is the liberty that God has given to individual believer.