Romans 14:18

For he that in these things, &c. The "for" indicates a connexion somewhat as follows: "the privileges of the Gospel are above all things spiritual: forthe subjects of God's evangelical kingdom approve themselves as loyal to their King, and worthy of their privileges in the eyes of men, not so much by insisting on ceremonial freedom, as by bringing the influence of their spiritual peace and joy to bear on their service of Christ." "In these things:" another reading, not so well supported, is "in this thing." If adopted, the "this" must refer to the whole idea of spiritual privilege.

serveth The word bears a suppressed emphasis. The assertor of ceremonial libertyis reminded that he is the bondmanof the Lord, precisely in virtue of his freedom from the doom of the law. See ch. 6.

acceptable to God As the servant who uses the Master's talent in the Master's business.

approved of men As standing the testof sincerity and reality. (The Gr. word suggests the idea of testing, assaying.)

Fact abundantly illustrates the Apostle's words. The disciple who "in thesethings serveth Christ" may or may not be popularwith men around him; but he is quite sure, on the whole and in the long run, to be recognized as real. No doubt the "strong" Christian is implicitly warned that punctilious assertions of libertyare very likely to have the opposite result.