What Really Matters in God’s Kingdom
Romans 14:17, in modern English, says: “For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.” Let’s break down what this means in straightforward, everyday language.
The Big Idea: What’s Most Important?
The main point of Romans 14:17 is that being part of God’s kingdom—a life following Jesus—has nothing to do with rules about what you eat or drink. Instead, it’s all about inner qualities and your relationship with God. The verse is telling us that true spiritual life isn’t about what’s on your plate, but what’s in your heart.
Spiritual Priorities vs. Outward Actions
In Bible times, people (especially in the early church) were arguing about what foods were okay to eat and what weren’t. Some thought eating certain foods was wrong, while others didn’t see a problem. Paul, the author of Romans, steps in to say, “You’re missing the point!” The kingdom of God isn’t about those outside rules. It’s about what God does inside us.
Instead of focusing so much on what you eat or drink, pay attention to things that matter more:
· Righteousness: Living in a way that is right and pleasing to God. It means treating people fairly, being honest, and doing your best to live a good life.
· Peace: Getting along with others, not fighting over small things, and keeping harmony in your friendships and church. It’s about building bridges, not walls.
· Joy: A deep happiness and contentment that comes from knowing God loves you, no matter what. It’s not just about being happy when things go your way, but having a sense of joy even when life is tough, because you trust God.
How Do We Get These Qualities?
These aren’t things we can create on our own by trying harder or following lots of rules. Romans 14:17 says these come “in the Holy Spirit”—in other words, God’s Spirit living in us gives us the power to do what’s right, live in peace, and experience true joy. It’s a gift from God, not something we earn.
The Context: Why Did Paul Write This?
If you read all of Romans 14, you’ll see Paul is talking to Christians who disagree on certain points—especially about diets and religious days. He’s encouraging them not to judge or look down on each other about these “disputable matters.” Instead, he wants them to focus on what really matters: loving God, loving each other, and living out the core values of the kingdom.
Paul’s message: Don’t let arguments about small stuff (like what to eat or drink) get in the way of unity and love. If doing something—even if it’s allowed—might hurt someone else’s faith, it’s better to give it up for their sake. In other words, relationships and spiritual growth are more important than being “right” about the little things.
How Does This Apply to Us Today?
Even now, people can get wrapped up in debates about traditions, church rules, or lifestyle choices. Romans 14:17 reminds us that what God cares about most isn’t those external things, but the kind of person we’re becoming:
· Are we just following rules, or are we growing in love, kindness, and joy?
· Are we building up others, not tearing them down over things that don’t really matter?
· Are our lives showing the difference that God’s Spirit makes inside us?
Summary
Romans 14:17 tells us that God’s kingdom is not about following a bunch of rules about food and drink, but about living lives marked by righteousness (doing what’s right), peace (getting along with others), and joy (real happiness)—all made possible by the Holy Spirit. So, let’s focus on what really matters: loving God, loving people, and letting God’s Spirit shape us from the inside out.
Minister A Francine Green
afrancinegreen.com 