In their earlier letter to Paul (1 Corinthians 7:1), the Corinthians seem to have raised the issue of eating food offered to idols. Perhaps they are challenging his former teaching to them about it by saying that "all of us possess knowledge." Paul has pointed out two problems with knowledge. First, knowledge alone creates only pride, while love builds people up (1 Corinthians 8:1). Second, just because someone believes they know does not mean they actually know (1 Corinthians 8:2).

Paul adds again that love is what truly matters, especially when that love is directed toward God. Here again, he uses the Greek root word agapao, referring to a selfless and sacrificial love.

Even better than having knowledge of God is to be known by Him. Those who love Him are known by Him. Being known by God, in turn, means that we belong to Him. Those who belong to God, Paul will eventually show, must completely separate themselves from demons, the real force behind the worship of idols and gods (1 Corinthians 10:20–21).

First Corinthians 8:1–13 begins Paul's longer response to the question of attending functions in idol temples or eating food offered to idols. This appears to blend Paul's own statements with references to the Corinthians' own remarks. It seems the Corinthians had previously written to Paul saying they are not ''worshiping'' the idols. They know idols don't really exist and that only God is real. Paul replies that the problem here is not lack of knowledge but lack of love. Some brothers and sisters in Christ cannot eat idol food with clear consciences. Those who are stronger risk leading those who are weaker into sin and, in that way, sinning themselves.

Paul responds to Corinthian objections about restrictions on eating in idol temples, or eating food offered to idols. Those were activities deeply integrated into everyday Corinthian society. Paul agrees that idols are nothing and food is only food. The problem is that some Christians from idol-worshiping backgrounds cannot eat idol food with a clear conscience. To do so is sin, for them. If those with stronger consciences—those who understand the truth better—lead their weaker brothers into sin, they themselves will also be guilty of sinning against their brothers and against Christ.

First Corinthians 8 begins Paul's response to another issue raised by the Corinthians. Earlier passages dealt with sexuality; this section discusses idolatry and food. Paul agrees that idols don't truly exist and only God is real. The problem is that some of the less-developed Christians aren't convinced of that. For those believers, they violate their consciences by eating idol food. Even if it's misguided, violating one's conscience is a sin (Romans 14:23). If those with stronger consciences lead these weaker brothers and sisters into sin, they will be guilty of sin themselves. Paul continues to balance liberty with care for others over the next chapters.

First Corinthians is one of the more practical books of the New Testament. Paul writes to a church immersed in a city associated with trade, but also with corruption and immorality. These believers are struggling to properly apply spiritual gifts and to resist the ungodly practices of the surrounding culture. Paul's letter gives instructions for real-life concerns such as marriage and spirituality. He also deals with the importance of unity and gives one of the Bible's more well-known descriptions of love in chapter 13.

Accessed 5/5/2024 8:02:48 AM

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