1 Corinthians 8 - Introduction

Things Offered Unto An Idol First Corinthians Eight

Paul knew that some brethren in Corinth had knowledge. Knowledge used the right way is a good thing. The Corinthians were so full of pride that they did not properly use knowledge; especially concerning the eating of meats sacrificed to idols. These brethren had allowed themselves to become worldly. Often the worldlier one becomes the prouder he seems to be. Paul said their knowledge had puffed them up. (1 Corinthians 8:1) Charity or love builds up the body of Christ. Pride puffs up and destroys the body.

Love will always consider what is fitting and proper, not only what lawfully may be done; as in the situation concerning eating things sacrificed to idols. If a man has knowledge but no love in his heart he is still useless in spreading the Gospel! If we want to be accepted by God we must lovingly obey! This love must manifest itself in the way we deal with our weak brethren. If we love as we should we will not want to be a stumbling block.

Today we understand that an idol is nothing at all. It is just a piece of wood, rock or metal. Idols are nothing in the world, since there is only one God! Christians are not only in Christ but they are likewise in the one true God. (1 Corinthians 8:6) The reason Paul gave emphasis to not eating meat offered to idols was that it might cause some weak brother to believe that an idol was really something, instead of nothing. Eating meat offered to idols would not commend you to God nor would it make you a worse person. However, we must be very careful concerning our example least we destroy one for whom Christ died.