Now as touching things offered unto idols, we know that we all have knowledge. Knowledge puffeth up, but charity edifieth.
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As concerning therefore the eating of those things that are offered in sacrifice unto idols, we know that an idol is nothing in the world, and that there is none other God but one.
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For though there be that are called gods, whether in heaven or in earth, (as there be gods many, and lords many,)
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But to us there is but one God, the Father, of whom are all things, and we in him; and one Lord Jesus Christ, by whom are all things, and we by him.
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Howbeit there is not in every man that knowledge: for some with conscience of the idol unto this hour eat it as a thing offered unto an idol; and their conscience being weak is defiled.
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But meat commendeth us not to God: for neither, if we eat, are we the better; neither, if we eat not, are we the worse.
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But take heed lest by any means this liberty of your's become a stumblingblock to them that are weak.
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For if any man see thee which hast knowledge sit at meat in the idol's temple, shall not the conscience of him which is weak be emboldened to eat those things which are offered to idols;
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Wherefore, if meat make my brother to offend, I will eat no flesh while the world standeth, lest I make my brother to offend.
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Chapter Study & Analysis
Overview
1 Corinthians 8 deals with the issue of eating food sacrificed to idols. Paul argues that while "knowledge puffeth up, charity edifieth." He stresses that our liberty should never become a stumblingblock to those with weaker consciences.
CONTEMPORARY APPLICATIONS
1. The Priority of Love: Knowledge alone can lead to pride; only love builds up the community (v. 1). Our theological understanding must always be tempered by concern for our brothers and sisters.2. Sensitivity to the Weak: Just because something is technically "permissible" doesn’t mean it’s helpful (v. 9). We must be willing to limit our own freedom if it helps preserve the faith of another.
3. One Lord, One God: Regardless of the "gods many" in the world, we acknowledge only one God the Father and one Lord Jesus Christ (v. 6). This exclusive devotion should simplify our moral choices.
Practical Lessons
FORMAL PRAYER
Gracious Father, grant us a heart of charity that edifies Thy people. Deliver us from the pride of knowledge and help us to walk circumspectly, that we may never cause a brother to stumble, but always seek the good of others for Christ’s sake. Amen.