Freedom but restraint
Scripture reading for July 18: 1 Corinthians 10
“”All things are lawful,” but not all things are helpful. “All things are lawful,” but not all things build up. Let no one seek his own good, but the good of his neighbor. . . .So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God. Give no offense to Jews or to Greeks or to the church of God, just as I try to please everyone in everything I do, not seeking my own advantage, but that of many, that they may be saved.” 1 Corinthians 10: 23-24, 31-33
When we come humbly to Christ in repentance, we find salvation from sin’s penalty and a new liberty from the rules of religion and culture. The early followers of Christ in Corinth came out of of idolatry or Judaism’s rules and traditions. They no longer had to follow the rules or works of religion. But Christ’s followers also were indwelt by the Holy Spirit and were becoming like Jesus Christ Who loved sinners and called them to repentance. Jesus ate with sinners and broke tradition. Jesus healed and ministered to people on the Sabbath, drawing religious leaders ire. Jesus loved God totally and loved people where they were that they might be led to repentance by an understanding of God’s love and mercy.
Paul, Christ’s Apostle, taught the new believers that although their liberty was real, they should voluntarily limit their liberty for the sake of the weak consciences of the new believers or unbelievers. Our liberty may be ‘lawful’ but not ‘helpful’ to building up new believers. We should consider the needs of others and how their consciences are developed. If eating idol meat was considered sinful, Paul said he would never eat meat again to help those believing this. His goal was God’s glory and salvation for all!
Do you find yourself judging people or arguing with them about their personal choices and beliefs? Does this mean that we should never confront sinful behavior or destructive choices? How does Paul’s attitude of doing all for God’s glory help you?
Prayer: Father God, thank You for caring about all people and desiring their salvation. Help me to live in such a way that I bring glory in all I do to Jesus Christ and further the Gospel. Give me wisdom and self-control and help me to consider the good of my neighbor and their salvation. Amen.
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