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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.
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INTRODUCTION
Christian believers possess a broad spectrum of knowledge. For instance, some believers are weak in the Lord with little knowledge concerning the Lord or His word. Other believers are stronger, possessing a deeper understanding of the word of God. One man may understand that an idol means nothing. He may understand that meat given to an idol is merely meat. However, the less knowledgeable man may not possess that same level of understanding. Christians more scripturally knowledgeable should never mock or disdain any weaker believer, nor should they seek to allow themselves to become a stumblingstone toward these weaker brethren. If the more knowledgeable person is not careful, he may allow his superior knowledge to puff him up. Instead of pride, stronger believers should demonstrate charity.
DEVOTIONAL THOUGHTS
- (For children): Do you laugh at a baby because he cannot do math? Of course not—he simply needs to grow and learn. 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...; Hebrews 5:13-14 [13] For every one that useth milk is unskilful in the word of righteousness: for he is a babe. [14] But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.
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 did (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...). - (For everyone): Have you ever had the experience of another believer mocking 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
TEMPLES OF THE HOLY GHOST
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Proverbs 29:6
In the transgression of an evil man there is a snare: but the righteous doth sing and rejoice.