May 23, 2004
Morning Sermon Outline
“Convictions, Opinions, and Christian Unity”
Romans 14

Let us learn from the Apostle Paul

1. He was a master of Christian Doctrine
2. Romans was and is his masterpiece
3. Reformed Presbyterians, like us, tend to love Paul for his commitment to Sound Doctrine, which is right
4. Yet, there is danger, even in the best things
5. First Corinthians 8:1

1 Corinthians 8:1 Now concerning things offered to idols: We know that we all have knowledge. Knowledge puffs up, but love edifies.
6. Presbyterians tend to fall into this trap, hence our nick-name – “The Frozen Chosen”

How can we grow in the knowledge of God, without being ‘puffed up’ or ‘big headed?’

I. Let us learn how to recognized the little things

1. The little things of Paul’s day – kosher food, food offered to idols, veggies, religious holidays
2. The little things of our own day – health food, drinking, T.V., movies
3. Some things are not worth fighting for –

II. Let us lovingly debate the bigger issues

1. No such thing as biblical non-essentials
2. Why debate and disagreement among Christians is not the worst thing
3. Debate can be a beautiful thing

III. Let us live unto the Lord and not judge our brothers

1. These statements speak to our focus, we live and die unto and are accountable to the Lord
2. For this reason we should not judge our brother / sister
3. We should rather be thoughtful and charitable toward the brethren, as we are toward ourselves

IV. Conclusion

1. Be committed to God’s truth
2. Let not knowledge go to your head
3. Be committed to your brothers and sisters in Christ

Pastor Arnold Brevick