Self-denial in behalf of Others

15 Now we who are strong ought to bear the weaknesses of (A)those without strength, and not just please ourselves. Each of us is to (B)please his neighbor [a]for his good, to his (C)edification. For even (D)Christ did not please Himself, but as it is written: “(E)The taunts of those who taunt You have fallen on Me.” For (F)whatever was written in earlier times was written for our instruction, so that through perseverance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope. Now may the (G)God [b]who gives perseverance and encouragement grant you (H)to be of the same mind with one another, according to Christ Jesus, so that with one purpose and one [c]voice you may glorify (I)the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Therefore, [d](J)accept one another, just as Christ also accepted [e]us, for the glory of God.

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Footnotes

  1. Romans 15:2 Lit for what is good to edification
  2. Romans 15:5 Lit of perseverance
  3. Romans 15:6 Lit mouth
  4. Romans 15:7 I.e., accept into fellowship
  5. Romans 15:7 One early ms you

Living to Please Others

15 We who are strong must be considerate of those who are sensitive about things like this. We must not just please ourselves. We should help others do what is right and build them up in the Lord. For even Christ didn’t live to please himself. As the Scriptures say, “The insults of those who insult you, O God, have fallen on me.”[a] Such things were written in the Scriptures long ago to teach us. And the Scriptures give us hope and encouragement as we wait patiently for God’s promises to be fulfilled.

May God, who gives this patience and encouragement, help you live in complete harmony with each other, as is fitting for followers of Christ Jesus. Then all of you can join together with one voice, giving praise and glory to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Therefore, accept each other just as Christ has accepted you so that God will be given glory.

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Footnotes

  1. 15:3 Greek who insult you have fallen on me. Ps 69:9.