Romans 15:1Amplified Bible (AMP)

Self-denial on Behalf of Others – – Now we who are strong [in our convictions and faith] ought to [patiently] put up with the weaknesses of those who are not strong, and not just please ourselves.

I include here the editorial note from the Amplified Bible version because it better explains what is going on in these opening verses of Romans 15. Denial of our old tendencies is not natural. It is not instinctual. It is faith based which has to be learned, it is unnatural.

Think of the difference between a baby slapping your face because he lacks proper motor skills and a man slapping you in anger. Your natural response is difference. Your faith based response should be, there is no difference, neither had the skills to control their hands.

Growth in Christ has to go beyond mere learning. If not then the difference between a baby slap and a man’s slap is merely height and weight. Self-control is the last fruit of the spirit listed and is practiced in self-denial, to restrain natural instincts in favor of our new nature in Christ.

Growing up in the natural is not a matter of self-control. It is genetic. Growing in Christ is not genetic, it is a conscious effort, a force of will, a commitment which requires effort on our part. We have all witnessed grown men who act like children and that is shameful. Is that what you want of your spiritual self?

Romans 12:2 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.

The transformation of the mind, making the mindset new, comes for studying God’s Word, believing the Word and then acting out by faith that which you know to be true.

Hebrews 10:24-25 And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near. ESV

Do you love me? You should. If I have lived according to God’s Word you should be able to love me without hesitation. How about if I mess up? Will you love me then? It is easy to love people who are loveable.

Colossians 3:12-14 Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering; Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye. And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness.

You will be given a chance to practice these instructions within the body of Christ. You may receive mercy before you have opportunity to exhibit mercy. You might not be experienced in these blessings but practice makes perfect. It is the difference between playing church and being a church. The church is the body of Christ, not a building.

Ephesians 4:11:12 And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ:

We do not send out babes in Christ to minister to a cruel world. He equips you first.

Hebrews 13:21 Make you perfect in every good work to do his will, working in you that which is wellpleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ; to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.