Tag: 1 Corinthians 8:13
One True God
Scripture reading for July 16: 1 Corinthians 8
“For although there may be so-called gods in heaven or on earth–as indeed there are many “gods” and many “lords”–yet for us there is one God, the Father, from Whom are all things and for Whom we exist, and one Lord, Jesus Christ, through Whom we exist. However, not all possess this knowledge. But some, through former association with idols, eat food as really offered to an idol, and their conscience, being weak, is defiled. Food will not commend us to God. We are no worse off if we do not eat, and no better off if we do. But take care that this right of yours does not somehow become a stumbling block to the weak.” 1 Corinthians 8:5-9
Although our nation was founded on Christian principles, we are far from trusting in the “One God” and “One Lord” that Paul spoke of to these Corinthians. In their culture there were many ‘gods’ and many ‘lords’ that competed for attention. Idolatry was common and people worshiped through bringing sacrifices, keeping rules, eating foods, and sexual contacts. Here Paul was dealing with foods served at the idol temples. These had often been animal sacrifices offered to idols. Corinthian believers had come out of this idolatry and looked upon the meat as tainted and thought they would be defiled if they went back to eat it. Paul told them that these idols and false gods were really nothing and had no influence.
But this knowledge could make a believer proud and the pride could keep them from loving God and those made in His image. To love each person where they were was the example and calling of Jesus and God the Father. Mature believers must always act in love towards those still not understanding accurately the influence of these false idols. Some believers were being hindered by the liberty of those flaunting their ability to eat the meat sacrificed to idols. Paul stated, “Therefore, if food makes my brother stumble, I will never eat meat, lest I make my brother stumble.” 1 Corinthians 8:13
Have you ever struggled to limit your freedom in Christ for the sake of a new believer coming out of idolatry? Is it easier to act on knowledge and rules than to show genuine love through restraint? How does Jesus advise us to handle believers who have a weak conscience?
Prayer: Father, thank You for being patient with me when I was lacking knowledge and understanding of truth. Help me to show Your love and patience towards newer believers as they struggle to come out of idolatry and often fail to understand the new liberty given by grace and faith. Amen.