19 Therefore let us pursue the things which make for peace and the things by which one may edify another.
19 Therefore
“Therefore” here harks back to verse 18, which centers on serving Christ. If we serve Him, then part of that service is doing what is necessary to keep peace in the congregation, especially with immature Christians.
let us pursue
The Greek word “pursue” means to run swiftly in order to catch something, to run after. Metaphorically, it carries the idea to seek after eagerly. It is a waste of time to pursue the question of what kinds of food we should eat or the day on which we should worship. We should place our emphasis on higher values, such as what is in the best interests of fellow Christians.
The exhortation to “pursue” means that we are not to take lightly the things that make for peace among believers and the issue of edification. When we pursue, we take the issues seriously. The Greek word carries the idea of running after. We are to make every effort to pursue peace and the building of the body of Christ.
the things which make for peace
“Peace” here is harmony among believers in the congregation. This is something that is necessary to pursue. We cannot be casual about it.
PRINCIPLE:
The mature will relinquish their liberty for the sake of immature Christians.
APPLICATION:
There are times when the mature must relinquish their liberty for the sake of others. There are times when use of the grace principle is not constructive because immature believers are not ready to fully absorb it. This is a serious issue that mature Christians need to keep in mind.
1 Co 8:9, But beware lest somehow this liberty of yours become a stumbling block to those who are weak.
