Romans 14:19 – “Let us therefore make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification.”

Extended Explanation

This verse is a call for believers to prioritize peace and encourage one another. Paul has been addressing issues in the Roman church where believers were arguing over personal convictions—things like food laws and religious customs. Instead of focusing on disagreements, Paul urges them to focus on what builds up the church.

Two key phrases stand out:

1. “Make every effort to do what leads to peace”
   • Peace in the church doesn’t happen by accident. Believers must actively work toward unity and avoid arguments over minor issues.
   • Instead of letting disagreements create division, Christians should seek ways to build bridges and maintain harmony.
2. “Mutual edification”
   • The word “edification” means to build up, strengthen, or encourage.
   • Instead of tearing each other down over personal differences, believers should help each other grow in faith.

Paul’s message is clear: stop focusing on small disagreements, and start focusing on building up the body of Christ.

Historical Context

Paul wrote this letter to a divided church in Rome.

• Jewish Christians followed Old Testament food laws and observed special religious days.
• Gentile Christians did not have these customs and felt free to eat anything.

This led to judgment and division in the church:

• Some Jewish believers criticized Gentiles for eating foods they considered unclean.
• Some Gentile believers looked down on Jews for holding onto old traditions.

Paul steps in and says: Stop arguing over food and traditions! Instead, pursue peace and build one another up.

This was a crucial message because division over small issues weakens the church. Paul wanted believers to focus on what truly matters—living in love and unity.

Theological Implications

This verse teaches several important truths:

1. Christians should be peacemakers.
   • God calls His people to live in peace with one another (Matthew 5:9).
   • Peace is not just the absence of conflict—it is actively working toward unity.
2. The Christian life is about building up, not tearing down.
   • Instead of criticizing others, we should encourage and strengthen their faith.
   • Words and actions matter—we can either help someone grow in faith or cause them to stumble.
3. Unity is more important than personal opinions.
   • Not every disagreement needs to be won. Sometimes, the best response is to let go of minor issues for the sake of peace.
   • Love is more important than proving we are “right” on disputable matters.

Paul reminds us that our mission is not to win arguments—it is to build up the body of Christ.

Literary Analysis

Romans 14:19 follows Paul’s pattern of contrast and encouragement.

• “Let us therefore” – Paul is summarizing everything he has said so far. This is a conclusion based on his previous arguments.
• “Make every effort” – This is an active command. Peace and unity require work; they don’t happen automatically.
• “To do what leads to peace” – The focus is on actions that create harmony in the church.
• “Mutual edification” – The phrase emphasizes encouraging one another rather than tearing each other down.

This verse reinforces that Christianity is not just about individual faith—it is about building up the whole body of believers.

Biblical Cross-References

• Matthew 5:9 – “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.” Jesus calls His followers to actively create peace.
• Romans 12:18 – “If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.” Peace requires effort from believers.
• 1 Thessalonians 5:11 – “Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.” Encouragement is part of the Christian life.
• Hebrews 12:14 – “Make every effort to live in peace with everyone and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord.” Peace is linked with holiness and obedience to God.

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

This verse is especially relevant for Christians today. Many churches still struggle with division over minor issues.

• Some believers argue about worship styles (traditional vs. modern).
• Others debate over dress codes or what kinds of entertainment Christians should enjoy.
• Still, others divide over politics or personal opinions.

Paul’s message is clear: instead of fighting over differences, Christians should focus on unity and encouragement.

Living out this verse means:

1. Choosing peace over conflict.
   • Not every disagreement needs to turn into an argument.
   • Sometimes, it is better to let go of non-essential debates for the sake of unity.
2. Encouraging other believers.
   • Look for ways to build up fellow Christians rather than criticize them.
   • Strengthen someone’s faith with kind words, support, and prayer.
3. Focusing on what truly matters.
   • Instead of getting distracted by minor issues, focus on growing in faith and helping others do the same.

Paul’s challenge to the church still applies today: Are we building up the body of Christ, or are we dividing it over small things?

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

God’s love is seen in His desire for unity among His people.

• God does not want His children fighting over minor issues. He calls us to peace, love, and encouragement.
• God is a builder, not a destroyer. He wants His church to be strong, not divided (1 Corinthians 3:9).
• God’s love should shape how we treat others. Since He has shown us grace, we should extend grace to fellow believers.

This verse reflects God’s heart for His people—that they would live in harmony and build one another up in love.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

Jesus is the ultimate peacemaker and encourager.

• He brought peace between God and people. Through His death and resurrection, Jesus removed the barrier of sin (Ephesians 2:14).
• He built up His followers. Jesus spent His ministry teaching, encouraging, and strengthening people’s faith.
• He calls His followers to unity. In John 17:21, Jesus prayed that His people would be one, just as He and the Father are one.

If Jesus valued peace and encouragement, then His followers should do the same.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. Do you tend to focus on differences, or do you look for ways to create peace among believers?
2. Are you more likely to encourage others or to criticize them?
3. How can you “make every effort” to promote peace in your church, family, or friendships?
4. Are there any disagreements in your life that you need to let go of for the sake of unity?
5. How can you follow Jesus’ example of building up others instead of tearing them down?