Reading: Romans 15:14 -33
Reflective Thoughts
Word and Deed
A division has existed within American Christianity since the end of the 19th century. Certain leaders began to question Scriptural authority. Others reacted, and pulled away from the mainstream, holding fast to their traditional understanding of Scripture. Waves of these scuffles continue up until today. The accusations of one camp toward the other go something like this: “Liberals don’t care about truth-they have reduced Christianity to serving social needs.” “Conservatives don’t care about needy people-they are only concerned about themselves and their doctrine.”
If these accusations are true, the Apostle Paul disagrees with both. After 14 and a half chapters of what would become key doctrinal teachings, he gives the Roman believers the big proverbial “therefore.” Their obedience is in both word–what they say and believe and deed–what they do (v.14). Paul’s teaching was inclusive of both spiritual truth and material fruit (v. 27). How is the Word affecting your word (what you say and believe) today? Will it produce in you good things for others?