Romans 14

“As for the man who is weak in faith, welcome him, but not for disputes over opinions. One believes he may eat anything while the weak man eats only vegetables” (Rom. 14:1-2). As we begin chapter 14 of Romans, Paul warns us not to have disputes over food. He describes some Christians as “the weak” while presumably others would be “the strong.” Orthodox Christians might be surprised about who is considered “weak” and who is considered “strong.” Who are these groups in the Roman Church, and what lesson is St. Paul teaching us about the observance of food regulations?