Romans 14:15

But. Rather, “for,” apparently connecting this verse with the preceding argument.

Be grieved. The weak brother is pained and troubled in conscience by seeing more experienced believers indulging in what he considers sinful. This grief may result in his destruction, for either he may be turned away from the Christian faith, which seems to be associated with practices he regards sinful, or he may be led by the example of his stronger brethren into a cowardly acquiescence in a course of action which to him appears to be sinful (see 1 Cor. 8:10-12).

Meat. Gr. broma, a general term for “food.”

Walkest thou. That is, you live, you behave (cf. on ch. 13:13).

Not charitably. Literally, “not according to love.” Compare ch. 13.

Destroy not. Whatever tends to influence anyone to violate his conscience may result in the destruction of his soul. A conscience once violated has been greatly weakened. One violation may lead to another until the soul is destroyed. Therefore a Christian who, by selfish indulgence even in something he regards as perfectly proper, exerts such a destroying influence, is guilty of the loss of a soul for whom Christ died (cf. 1 Cor. 8).

With thy meat. Literally, “by your food.” See on Mark 7:19.

Christ died. Christ died to save the “weak” (v. 1) brother, and his fellow believers must not destroy him for the sake of indulgence in certain foods. A very small sacrifice is asked in comparison with what Christ gave. He gave His life. Surely Christians who are strong in faith will be willing to forgo the pleasure of some favorite item of food or drink for the sake of their weaker brother.