We who are strong have an obligation to bear with the failings of the weak, and not to please ourselves. Let each of us please his neighbour for his good, to build him up. For Christ did not please Himself, but as it is written, ‘The reproaches of those who reproached you fell on me.’ (Romans 15:1 – 3) None are more unjust in their judgments of others than those who have a high opinion of themselves. - Charles Spurgeon How far you go in life depends on your being tender with the young, compassionate with the aged,sympathetic with the striving, and tolerant of the weak and strong. Because someday in your life you will have been all of these. - George Washington Carver Sermon Outline: Our Obligation is to bear with one another and please our neighbour (15:1 – 2) Our Inspiration comes from Christ who did not live to please Himself (15:3) Our Instruction comes from the Scriptures which strengthens our hope (15:4) 4. Our Motivation comes from God our Father and a life lived for His glory (15:5 – 13) Study and Discussion Questions: The Call to Accept One Another As Christ has Accepted Us Romans 15:1 – 13 Open It How does it feel to owe someone money? Does it affect the relationship? How often do you choose to NOT get your way so that you can please another person? Explore It What is the responsibility of a strong Christian toward others? (15:1-2) How does Psalm 69:9 refer to Christ? (15:3) What is the purpose of Scripture? (15:4) What does God want to give each believer to guide his or her Christian life? (15:5-6) By what standards should a person accept others? (15:7) For what reason was Jesus sent to the Jews? (15:8-12) Get It With what does God want to fill us? (15:13) What life-style rules and issues do Christians argue about today? What practice would you be willing to give up if it proved to be a bad influence on others? When Scripture is not clear, how should a person decide what is right and wrong? What are some areas that we should examine carefully for practices that cause others to sin? How can Christians share a spirit of unity despite having different views on certain practices? Apply It What area of your life can you examine that may cause difficulty for another Christian? What can you do this week to spread peace and mutual edification among Christians?