“1 Now we who are strong have an obligation to bear the weaknesses of those without strength, and not to please ourselves.”
In chapter 14, Paul primarily described how Christians are to think about and use their God-given Christian liberties, especially when there is a difference in doctrinal opinion and conviction of the conscience. In chapter 15, Paul will explain the motivation we should have while serving other Christians by forfeiting our liberty. Throughout the first half of the chapter, Paul will continue to use the designators of a “strong” and “weak” Christian as was used in chapter 14.
Paul begins verse 1 by calling those Christians who understand the liberties secured for them in Christ (the strong) to meet their obligation and help those who do not exercise these liberties, but rather abide by the conviction of their consciences (the weak). Paul says in his letter to the Galatians,
“Carry one another’s burdens; in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” — Galatians 6:2
When we bear the burdens of those who are weak, we fulfill the law of Christ. Remember what Jesus said about the law of God?
“He said to him, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the greatest and most important command. The second is like it: Love your neighbor as yourself. All the Law and the Prophets depend on these two commands.”” — Matthew 22:37-40
When we love our fellow brothers and sisters by carrying their burdens, we are loving our neighbor as we do ourselves. When we do this with the right attitude, we glorify God. When we love others in this way, we are fulfilling the law of God by our love.
“So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do everything for the glory of God.” — 1 Corinthians 10:31
Paul is telling us that we have an obligation to help the weak and bear their burdens. What does that look like? It is as Jesus said, “…Love your neighbor as yourself…” (Matthew 22:39). We ought to take care of the weak the same way we take care of ourselves. Paul further explains this in his letter to the Thessalonians, where he tells the Christians there that they cannot be found idle. We must constantly be at work to help those who are weak and to comfort those who are discouraged.
“And we exhort you, brothers and sisters: warn those who are idle, comfort the discouraged, help the weak, be patient with everyone. See to it that no one repays evil for evil to anyone, but always pursue what is good for one another and for all.” — 1 Thessalonians 5:14-15