1 Cor 8:1-13
We all possess knowledge. Knowledge puffs up, but love builds up.
The man who loves god is known by God.
But food does to bring us near to God; we are no worse if we do not eat, and no better if we do.
Be careful that the exercise of your freedom does not become a stumbling block to the weak
Why?
It was hard in Corinth to make a clean break with paganism. Trade groups and clubs held their social functions at the temples. Most of the meat sold in the shops had first been offered in sacrifice.
Some Christians maintain that since other gods do not really exist they are free to eat meat and attend club dinners. But others are worried. Freedom is right, says Paul. But no one should exercise personal freedom at the expense of another person's conscience. Love is more important than knowledge.
The issue is not so much the food as where it is eaten. It is never right - not even on social occasions - to eat at the table of demons in a pagan temple. This was only an issue for the social elite: the poor were not normally invited to temple feasts.
How?
Exercise of Freedom is an knowledge but love others, do not stumble others by our knowledge.
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