1 Corinthians 8:1

1 CORINTHIANS—NOTE ON 1 Corinthians 8:1 Because pagan temples offered animal parts in sacrifice to the gods, they also often functioned as butcher shops and banqueting halls. Sometimes meals for trade guilds, clubs, and private dinner parties were held in a temple dining room. Often meat from a temple was sold to the public in the marketplace. Paul gives clear guidance about the use of such food. He first urges the Corinthians not to eat in pagan temples (1 Corinthians 8:10) because it might lead to the destruction of a weaker brother or sister (ch. 1 Corinthians 8:1). He then offers himself as an example of giving up something one is convinced is a right for the spiritual edification of others (ch. 1 Corinthians 9:1). He urges the Corinthians not to eat in pagan temples because doing so is idolatry (1 Corinthians 10:1). Finally, he says that eating meat purchased in the marketplace (which may have come from a pagan temple) is not wrong unless it hinders the advancement of the gospel (1 Corinthians 10:23).