1 Corinthians: “I Will Never Eat Meat, Lest I Make My Brother Stumble”

There are some things which are inherently not sinful that still violate the consciences of some within the church.  In such cases, those whose consciences are weak have a divinely ordained responsibility to “grow up in every way” (Eph. 4:15) and heed biblical teaching which shows that what they are concerned about is not intrinsically sinful (e.g., 8:8; 10:23a, 25-27, 29-30).  In the meantime as they are learning and growing in their comprehension, their brethren who already understand that they have the freedom to participate in this non-sinful activity must also put the spiritual welfare of their weaker brethren before their freedoms and rights and abstain from this action which currently offends their brethren (e.g., 8:9-13; 10:23b-24, 28, 32-33).  This requires the agape love God wishes all of us to have (8:1). … Read More 1 Corinthians: “I Will Never Eat Meat, Lest I Make My Brother Stumble”

1 Corinthians: The Easy Way…Or The Hard Way?

Not all of the Corinthians were receptive to sound doctrine. These “arrogant” opponents did not think Paul would set foot in Corinth again and admonish them in person.  However, he assured the church that he would come to see them personally soon.  Once he arrived, Corinth would see that his opponents were “all talk,” but Paul had divine power on his side.  He ends his discourse on this subject by asking them if they wished him to discipline them harshly with miraculous power, or in a more loving and gentle manner.… Read More 1 Corinthians: The Easy Way…Or The Hard Way?