The “Weak” and the “Strong” in Romans 14:1–15:13

Elijah Baidoo, PhD Student

Abstract

Romans 14:1–15:13 addresses a pressing tension within the early Roman church involving disputes over dietary practices and the observance of specific days. This exegetical study investigates the identity of the “weak” and “strong” and the cultural-religious dynamics underlying these disagreements. While many scholars view Paul’s counsel as a general parenetic appeal for tolerance, this study argues that Paul’s exhortation in Romans 14–15 responds to a real historical situation during the post-Claudian period in the context of the Roman congregation, specifically tensions over kosher practices and Jewish feast days, rather than offering a general moral exhortation. Employing historical-literary analysis by examining the structure and rhetorical features and theological logic of Romans 14–15, the study argues that the “days” likely reference Jewish feast days and the “food” concerns stem from kosher sensitivities and possible idolrelated contamination, not from Mosaic dietary laws per se. Paul’s call for mutual acceptance is argued to be more than an accommodation to cultural diversity. It is a profound theological necessity rooted in God’s universal salvific purpose. The repeated use of προσλαμβάνω, “receive,” in Rom 14:1 and 15:7 presents Paul’s call to unity as a missional and ecclesiological imperative. The study finally concludes that Paul's prioritization of God’s redemptive work and community harmony over personal convictions provides a paradigm for Christian unity in diversity.