What does Romans 15:7 mean?

Explanation

Romans 15:7 is an appeal to the Christian community to practice acceptance toward one another.

The verse exhorts members of the church to welcome each other as Christ has welcomed them.

The "one another" in this context refers to fellow believers, regardless of their backgrounds or differences.

The deeper meaning revolves around the idea of unity within the body of Christ.

The acceptance should reflect the manner in which Christ accepted believers, that is, unconditionally and without prejudice.

This promotes the glory of God because it mirrors the inclusivity and love that are integral to the nature of God as revealed in Jesus Christ.

Historical Context

Romans was written by the Apostle Paul, likely around A.D. 57.

At this time, the early church was dealing with internal conflicts regarding Jewish and Gentile believers and their different practices, especially concerning dietary laws and observance of special days.

There were tensions between these groups, and Paul was addressing the need for mutual acceptance in the diverse body of Christ.

Paul wanted to remind them that Christ had brought together people from every ethnicity and background, creating a new community based on faith, not law.

Theological Insights

The verse has been seen as a cornerstone for the concept of Christian fellowship and unity.

From a theological perspective, it emphasizes the idea that acceptance is not based on human standards but on the example set by Christ.

In Reformed theology, this acceptance is tied to the doctrine of justification by faith; since believers are accepted by God through faith, they should likewise accept each other.

In Catholic and Orthodox traditions, the scripture emphasizes the mystery of the church as the body of Christ, which is made up of varied members, all of whom must be in harmony.

Practical Applications

In practical terms, Romans 15:7 can be applied today by encouraging tolerance and love towards one another within the Christian community, especially amidst diverging viewpoints, traditions, or practices.

It suggests an attitude of hospitality and support for fellow believers. This can extend to welcoming new members into a community, refraining from judgment, and actively seeking to understand and uplift others, reflecting the unconditional love of Christ.

Cross-References

• Ephesians 4:32: "And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you."
• Galatians 3:28: "There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus."
• John 13:34: "A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another."

Language Study

The key words in the original Greek language of this verse are "προσλαμβάνεσθε" (proslambanesthe) which can mean "receive," "take," or "welcome," indicating an action that is active and intentional.

The phrase "καθὼς καὶ ὁ Χριστὸς προσελάβετο" (kathos kai ho Christos proselabeto) emphasizes the manner of acceptance, pointing to Christ as the model. In the Greek, this model is one of gracious reception, suggesting that Christ's acceptance was full, embracing people despite their imperfections.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

This teaching of mutual acceptance has parallels in many other religious and ethical systems.

In Hinduism, the concept of 'atithi devo bhava' suggests that the guest is equivalent to God and should be treated with the utmost respect and care.

In Islam, there's a strong emphasis on community (umma) and brotherhood among believers.

In various cultural myths and religious narratives, the motif of hospitality, sometimes extending even to strangers, is a recurring theme, seeing it as a virtue that benefits both the individual and the larger community.

Scientific Perspectives

Modern psychology and social science uphold the benefits of acceptance within communities.

Studies have shown that feeling accepted by a group contributes to an individual's mental and emotional well-being.

Romans 15:7 could be seen as advocating for an inclusive and supportive community, which aligns with findings in social psychology that such environments foster better mental health, social cohesion, and overall societal stability.

Commentaries

Various biblical scholars and theologians have offered insights on Romans 15:7.

John Stott, an influential evangelical leader, saw this verse as a summation of the church's mission to be a community that mirrors the inclusiveness and grace of Jesus Christ.

Matthew Henry, in his commentaries, emphasized that the glory of God is the ultimate end of all Christian duties, including that of mutual acceptance.

He noted that Christ received us, despite our faults, for God's glory, and so should we accept others.

F.F.

Bruce, a biblical scholar, interpreted Paul's words as a reminder that the welcoming of one another creates harmony in the church and allows it to visibly manifest the wisdom and character of God.