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Through Thy Knowledge - 1 Corinthians 8:1-13
Through Thy Knowledge - 1 Corinthians 8:1-13 [1] Now as touching things offered unto idols, we know that we all have knowledge. Knowledge puffeth up, but charity edifieth.
[2] And if any man think that he knoweth any thing, he knoweth nothing yet as he ought to know.
[3] But if any man love God, the same is known of him.
[4] As concerning therefore the eating of those things that are offered in sacrifice unto idols, we know that an idol is nothing in the world, and that there is none other God but one.
[5] For though there be that are called gods, whether in heaven or in earth, (as there be gods many, and lords many,)
[6] But to us there is but one God, the Father, of whom are all things, and we in him; and one Lord Jesus Christ, by whom are all things, and we by him.
[7] Howbeit there is not in every man that knowledge: for some with conscience of the idol unto this hour eat it as a thing offered unto an idol; and their conscience being weak is defiled.
[8] But meat commendeth us not to God: for neither, if we eat, are we the better; neither, if we eat not, are we the worse.
[9] But take heed lest by any means this liberty of your's become a stumblingblock to them that are weak.
[10] For if any man see thee which hast knowledge sit at meat in the idol's temple, shall not the conscience of him which is weak be emboldened to eat those things which are offered to idols;
[11] And through thy knowledge shall the weak brother perish, for whom Christ died?
[12] But when ye sin so against the brethren, and wound their weak conscience, ye sin against Christ.
[13] Wherefore, if meat make my brother to offend, I will eat no flesh while the world standeth, lest I make my brother to offend.
See All...
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INTRODUCTION
Christianity is comprised of a broad spectrum of knowledge. Some believers are weak in the Lord, knowing little about the Lord and the Bible. Other believers may be stronger, possessing a deeper understanding of the word of God. One man may understand that an idol is nothing. He may understand that meat given to an idol is merely meat. However, another man may not possess the same level of knowledge. More knowledgeable Christians should never mock weaker believers, nor should they seek opportunities to be a stumbling stone. If one is not careful, he will allow knowledge to puff him up. Instead of pride, stronger believers ought to demonstrate charity.
DEVOTIONAL THOUGHTS
- (For smaller children) Do you laugh at a baby because he can't do math? Of course not--he needs to grow. Converts also need to grow (1 Peter 2:2As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby:
See All...; He-brews 5:13-14
See All...). We should help them (1 Corinthians 14:26How is it then, brethren? when ye come together, every one of you hath a psalm, hath a doctrine, hath a tongue, hath a revelation, hath an interpretation. Let all things be done unto edifying.
See All...b; Ephesians 4:29Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers.
See All...) as Jesus did (Mark 10:1And he arose from thence, and cometh into the coasts of Judaea by the farther side of Jordan: and the people resort unto him again; and, as he was wont, he taught them again.
See All...) and Paul (Acts 20:20And how I kept back nothing that was profitable unto you, but have shewed you, and have taught you publickly, and from house to house,
See All...). - Have you ever had another believer mock you because you lacked understanding in a certain area? Did that encourage you to learn more or discourage and embarrass you?
- Have you ever mocked a believer for his or her lack of knowledge in the scriptures? Should you have handled the situation differently? Can you make it right at this point?
PRAYER NEEDS
- Thank God for His graciousness with you.
- Ask God to help you deal with others in a charitable manner.
HYMN
Take My Life, and Let It Be
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Proverbs 22:24
Make no friendship with an angry man; and with a furious man thou shalt not go: