The Weak and the Strong

Romans 15:1-13

1. We who are strong ought to bear with the failings of the weak and not to please ourselves.

2. Each of us should please his neighbor for his good, to build him up.

3. For even Christ did not please himself but, as it is written: "The insults of those who insult you have fallen on me."[a]

4. For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through endurance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope.

5. May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you a spirit of unity among yourselves as you follow Christ Jesus,

6. so that with one heart and mouth you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.

7. Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God.

8. For I tell you that Christ has become a servant of the Jews [b] on behalf of God's truth, to confirm the promises made to the patriarchs

9. so that the Gentiles may glorify God for his mercy, as it is written:
"Therefore I will praise you among the Gentiles;
I will sing hymns to your name."[c]

10. Again, it says,
"Rejoice, O Gentiles, with his people."[d]

11. And again,
"Praise the Lord, all you Gentiles,
and sing praises to him, all you peoples."[e]

12. And again, Isaiah says,
"The Root of Jesse will spring up,
one who will arise to rule over the nations;
the Gentiles will hope in him."[f]

13. May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.

Footnotes:

[a] Romans 15:3 Psalm 69:9
[b] Romans 15:8 Greek circumcision
[c] Romans 15:9 2 Samuel 22:50; Psalm 18:49
[d] Romans 15:10 Deut. 32:43
[e] Romans 15:11 Psalm 117:1
[f] Romans 15:12 Isaiah 11:10

God Bless You & Yours-
Countess