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Romans Commentary Chapters 9-16  /  Romans 14:14-23: Respecting the Conscience of Others  /  Discussion Questions
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Question 7
Bercot connects Romans 14:17 (“not food and drink”) with early Christian assumptions about frugality and self-control, citing Novatian and Clement on simple eating; how does that early Christian reading challenge modern Christian habits around abundance, pleasure, and “freedom,” especially in food and drink?
Another way to ask: If early Christians linked Romans 14:17 with simple eating and self-control, how does that challenge how Christians today think about having plenty, enjoying pleasure, and claiming “freedom,” especially with food and drink?

Direct Answer The early Christian reading Bercot cites challenges the idea that “freedom” means indulgence; instead, even when food is permitted, Christians should practice frugality, self-control, and simple eating. It reframes Romans 14:17 as not only avoiding quarrels, but also resisting excess.

Support from Transcript:

  • Paul’s main point: “the kingdom of God is not food and drink,” so Christians “should not quarrel about food and drink.”
  • Bercot adds that early Christians also took it to mean “Christians are to eat moderately and simply.”
  • Novatian (quoted): though food use is “universally given,” it is “only within the law of frugality and self-control,” and “Nothing restrains excess eating and drinking as much as the gospel.”
  • Novatian also says Christ gave “strict laws against gluttony.”
  • Clement of Alexandria (quoted): “Our food is to be simple and truly plain… ministering to life, not to luxury.”
Discussion Follow-ups How might “simple and plain” eating function as a spiritual discipline today, especially in cultures where abundance is normal and celebrated?

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