Romans 14:21

It is good. The strong Christian should be willing to give up his freedom in these comparatively inconsequential matters rather than to offend a weaker brother (cf. 1 Cor. 8:13).

Flesh. Gr. krea, “flesh foods.” The word occurs only here and in 1 Cor. 8:13. In Rom. 14:15, 20; etc., broma, the word for food in general, is used.

Wine. Flesh and wine were evidently the principal objects of the weaker brother’s religious scruples, probably because they were customarily used by the pagans in sacrifice to their idols.

Nor any thing. The words “any thing,” though supplied, are clearly implied in the Greek. Paul adds this general caution to cover any activity that, though legitimate in itself, may upset or confuse the brother who is not yet persuaded that such actions are divinely permitted. The Christian who is contemplating a certain course of action will not only ask, Is this lawful? but also, How will this affect my brother’s soul?

Stumbleth. Gr. proskopto, “to strike against,” “to stumble,” “to beat against,” metaphorically, “to take offense at.”

Offended. Textual evidence may be cited (cf. p. 10) for the omission of “or is offended, or is made weak.” However, these ideas are implicit in “stumbleth.”

Is made weak. Literally, “is weak,” meaning that the stronger brother is to be careful in all matters about which his brother’s unenlightened conscience may be easily grieved.