Romans 14:5-9

⁵ “One person values one day over another, another values every day the same. Each person must be fully convinced in his own mind.  ⁶ The one who observes the day, observes it for the Lord, and the one who eats, does so with regard to the Lord, for he gives thanks to God; and the one who does not eat, it is for the Lord that he does not eat, and he gives thanks to God.  ⁷ For not one of us lives for himself, and not one dies for himself;  ⁸ for if we live, we live for the Lord, or if we die, we die for the Lord; therefore whether we live or die, we are the Lord’s.  ⁹ For to this end Christ died and lived again, that He might be Lord both of the dead and of the living.”

Verse 5: Paul addresses the issue of differing opinions regarding the observance of certain days as more sacred than others. He emphasizes that each person should be fully convinced in their own mind about their beliefs and practices. The key here is not to judge or condemn one another based on these differences, but to respect each other’s convictions.

Verse 6: Paul highlights the underlying principle that whatever we do, whether it is regarding the observance of certain days or dietary choices, we should do it with a heart of gratitude and devotion to the Lord. Our actions should be motivated by a desire to honor and please God, rather than seeking to please others or conform to external expectations.

Verse 7: Paul reminds believers that our lives are not lived in isolation. We are interconnected as members of the body of Christ, and our actions and choices have an impact on others. Therefore, it is important to consider the well-being and spiritual growth of our fellow believers as we navigate these disputable matters.

Verse 8: Paul emphasizes the ultimate allegiance and devotion that believers have to the Lord. Our lives are to be lived for His glory and purposes. Whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord, and our focus should be on honoring him in all that we do.

Verse 9: Paul concludes this passage by pointing to the redemptive work of Christ. It is because of His death and resurrection that He is the Lord over both the living and the dead. Our unity and acceptance of one another should be rooted in the recognition of Christ’s lordship and the common salvation we share in him.