Verse 13
The Greek word translated "obstacle" (NASB) or "stumbling block" (NIV; proskomma) refers to an object on a path against which someone strikes his foot and consequently stumbles or falls (cf. 1 Corinthians 8:9). The stronger brother’s liberty might retard the weaker brother’s progress as he walks the Christian path. It might set him back temporarily or even do permanent damage to his sensitive conscience (cf. Matthew 18:6-7; Mark 9:42; Luke 17:1-2).
Another Greek word translated "stumbling block" (NASB) or "obstacle" (NIV; skandalon) describes a snare used to catch an animal or victim as it walks by (cf. Matthew 16:23; 1 Corinthians 8:13). The stronger brother’s liberty might even constitute a temptation for the weaker brother to sin. It might tempt him to go beyond his stronger brother’s behavior and cast off restraint in moral as well as amoral (Gr. adiaphora, indifferent) matters.
"Here now is indeed a field for judging! and it is ourselves, not our brother, which we are to judge!" [Note: Newell, p. 510.]
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