Paul writes about eating things offered to idols. This must have been something of a conflict because it was also mentioned in the book of Romans (chapter 14).
But notice how Paul enters the conversation dealing with this subject, “Now concerning food sacrificed to idols, we know that we all have knowledge. Knowledge makes one conceited, but love edifies people. If anyone thinks that he knows anything, he has not yet known as he ought to know; but if anyone loves God, he is known by Him…Therefore…” 1 Corinthians 8:1-3, 4a
Paul writes about knowledge and love. In modern vernacular we might say, “you think you know, but you really don’t.” We can be quick to throw out what knowledge we have when dealing with certain situations such as this one Paul writes about. But what’s more important our knowledge or love?
There are things permissible we can partake in for sure, but are those things worth stumbling those around you? Did Paul know it was okay to eat meat offered to idols? Absolutely! To Paul it was more important to encourage and edify his brother even if it meant giving up some pleasures in this life. Paul ends the conversation with, “Therefore, if food causes my brother to sin, I will never eat meat again, so that I will not cause my brother to sin.” 1 Corinthians 8:13
Do with this what you will… let the Spirit of God give you discernment. Be led by the Holy Spirit. But let the display of our love be greater than the display of our knowledge.
- To Know Jesus. To Live on Mission.