The construction of this week’s epistle text is a literary form called “ring composition.” Paul’s first discussion (vv.1-3) and his final argument (vv.10-12) employ the same language (“weak/strong,” “despise/judge”) to make similar points. The central section of this unit (vv.4-9) provides the theological “meat” between these sandwiching statements. The apostle reminds the church that all disciples, whether “weak” or “strong,” ultimately answer to God, the final judge over all.

Perhaps one of Paul’s most important revelations is expressed in v.1. Here he recognizes that sometimes a “welcome” is not a “welcome.” Inviting others with different opinions to join the community of faith largely in order to obtain fodder for infighting is utterly “counter-Christian.” An invitation extended “for th…