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Idols – Day 27

1 Corinthians 8:1

Now about food sacrificed to idols: We know that “We all possess knowledge.” But knowledge puffs up while love builds up.

The Thought

In the previous chapter Paul tells us that he is responding to questions the Corinthians have asked in an earlier communication (1 Corinthians 7:1). First he responds to their questions about marriage, sexual activity, staying celibate and circumcision.

At the beginning of today’s chapter he continues those subjects giving the Corinthian church his ideas and advice about marriage and widowhood, then suddenly he changes to the subject of idolatry. I wonder if in his mind there is a link! But we don’t know, so we will just stay with what is clear from Biblical records.

Paul continues confirming that There is no God but one (verse 4).

We can feel his sadness and frustration as this committed disciple tells us in verses 7 and 8:- But not everyone possesses this knowledge… they eat sacrificial food, thinking of it as being sacrificed to a god, and since their conscience is weak they are defiled. But food does not bring us nearer to God; we are no worse if we do not eat, and no better if we do.

This whole chapter is a real encouragement to us all to watch what sort of example we are setting to others. If we think we know it all, then we are full of pride. That is what is suggested by the verse today!

Action

Ask yourself today if your behaviour is always the same in every circumstance.

Do you pray before meals no matter who you are with? Within your close family unit, with friends, with people from church, with non-believers, neighbours and the people who see you at work?

Pray for God to show you any insincerity in your behaviour, and if you are affected by the company you are with.

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