Religious Provocation

Romans 15:1-6

Maturity in Christ has its benefits, but to whom much is given much is required.

The spiritually mature believer must have a high tolerance for those who are weaker in faith.

The less mature are often more religious than spiritual. The mature believer must exercise patience as the weaker taunts, criticizes, and sometimes falsely accuses him/her, without breaking relationship.

To be strong in faith in God is to rest in full assurance of His acceptance, to the point where no amount of taunting can cause us to distance ourselves from the weaker accuser.

To be strong in faith is to be free from the need of human approval.

To be strong in faith is to be able to stand beneath the vitriol of man and not open the mouth in self defense.