To Eat or not to eat

Scripture Reading 8:1-13

Be careful, however, that the exercise of your freedom does not become a stumbling block to the weak.

Observation

In this chapter of fist Corinthians Paul tackles an issue that is not common to our culture, what to do with the meat sacrificed to idols? This is not a problem that we face today, yet it is at the same time. What was happening was that in the grace of Christ some Christians in Corinth were happily eating meat that had been sacrificed to idols. They knew that Christ was victorious and that to them the meat was fine. What Paul brings up however is that their actions could confuse or weaken others who did not understand the power of Christ.

What Paul is saying is live your life not just for yourself but for the whole community of Christ. Love, care and support all those we live with. This is what the ‘Church’ is meant to be, it is meant to be a place where each part supports the other parts. So just because you may live in grace enough for you to participate in such and such, be sure that others are not weakened in their faith by your actions.

Application

What do I do that could impact others and may weaken them? Do I look for every opportunity to build others up in their faith?

Prayer

Lord God creator of all things, I thank you that there is abundant grace found in you, may I have a double portion of your blessing, that I may love those around me, that I may build them up and in no way weaken their faith in you.