What commands and exhortations does Paul call us to in this passage?

What reasons does Paul give for why Christians should bear with one another, and strive to build each other up?  (15:1-3)

Read Psalm 69.  How does that psalm inform how we understand the point that Paul is making in 15:3?

According to Paul, what are (at least some of) the reasons why the Bible was written?  (15:4)

Why do you think it is important for a Christian (or a church) to have a high view of Scripture?  And to see it as authoritative?

According to 15:8-9, what are (at least some of) the reasons why Jesus came?

Look up the Old Testament passages that Paul cites in 15:9-13.  (2 Samuel 22, Psalm 18, Deuteronomy 32, Psalm 117, Isaiah 11)  Why do you think that Paul cites these particular passages?  What point is he trying to make?

Why do you think that Jewish people in the first century were so offended and scandalized at the thought of Gentiles being incorporated into the people of God?

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