Bearing weaknesses and building up (15:1–6)

Says The strong ought to bear the weaknesses of those without strength and not please themselves (15:1). Each should please his neighbor for his good, to build him up (15:2). Christ did not please himself; what is written says the reproaches of those who reproached you fell on me (15:3). What was written beforehand was written for our instruction, so that through endurance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope (15:4). The God of endurance and encouragement would grant one mind according to Christ Jesus, so that with one mind and one mouth they glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ (15:5–6).

Implies βαστάζειν (bastazein, “to bear, to carry”) with ἀσθενήματα (asthenēmata, “infirmities”) pictures carrying a burden, and can mean to endure. The duty continues the weak and strong concern of Romans 14. οἰκοδομή (oikodomē, “building up”) names the aim of pleasing the neighbor (15:2). παράκλησις (paraklēsis, “encouragement” or “comfort”) from the Scriptures, with ὑπομονή (hypomonē, “endurance”), sustains hope (15:4–5).

Uncertain “Bear” may mean patient endurance of others’ scruples or active help. Both fit the verb. No lean is taken here.

The printed text has ἐγράφη as the second verb at 15:4; RP and TR read προεγράφη there (var.Rom.15.4.egraphe). WH reads πάντα εἰς; the others read εἰς. TR omits the second διά before τῆς παρακλήσεως; RP and the printed text keep it. Tregelles reverses Χριστὸν Ἰησοῦν at 15:5. Comparison of the 15:3 citation with Psalm 69 awaits the Hebrew note.