Romans 14:17
“For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost.”
Romans 14:17 (KJV):For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost.
This verse is part of a larger passage in the book of Romans where the apostle Paul addresses the topic of "disputable matters" within the Christian community. In this particular section, Paul is discussing issues related to dietary restrictions and observing specific days as holy.
In Romans 14:17, Paul emphasizes that the kingdom of God is not primarily concerned with external factors such as what one eats or drinks. Instead, he highlights three important aspects of the kingdom of God:
Righteousness:Righteousness refers to living in right relationship with God and others. It involves adhering to God’s moral standards and seeking to do what is right in God’s eyes. In the context of Romans 14, Paul encourages believers not to pass judgment on one another based on personal convictions regarding food or special days.
Peace:Peace refers to the harmony and reconciliation that comes from being in a right relationship with God. In the context of Romans 14, Paul urges believers to pursue peace and unity rather than engaging in disputes or causing division over non-essential matters.
Joy in the Holy Ghost:Joy is a deep sense of delight and contentment that comes from the presence and work of the Holy Spirit in the lives of believers. It is not dependent on external circumstances but is rooted in the assurance of salvation and the hope of eternal life. Paul encourages believers to find joy in their shared faith rather than focusing on minor disagreements.
Overall, Romans 14:17 reminds us that the kingdom of God is about spiritual realities rather than external rituals or practices. It calls believers to prioritise righteousness, peace, and joy in their relationships with God and one another, rather than getting caught up in secondary matters that can cause division or judgment. It encourages a focus on the essentials of the faith and unity within the body of Christ.
