1 Corinthians 8

KJV · Chapter 8/16

1Now as touching things offered unto idols, we know that we all have knowledge. Knowledge puffeth up, but charity edifieth.

2And if any man think that he knoweth any thing, he knoweth nothing yet as he ought to know.

3But if any man love God, the same is known of him.

4As 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.

5For though there be that are called gods, whether in heaven or in earth, (as there be gods many, and lords many,)

6But 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.

7Howbeit 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.

8But meat commendeth us not to God: for neither, if we eat, are we the better; neither, if we eat not, are we the worse.

9But take heed lest by any means this liberty of yours become a stumblingblock to them that are weak.

10For 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;

11And through thy knowledge shall the weak brother perish, for whom Christ died?

12But when ye sin so against the brethren, and wound their weak conscience, ye sin against Christ.

13Wherefore, if meat make my brother to offend, I will eat no flesh while the world standeth, lest I make my brother to offend.

📖 Chapter study

Summary

Paul addresses the question of eating meat sacrificed to idols, a common practice in the markets of Corinth. He teaches that the knowledge that idols do not exist should not override love for a brother with a weaker conscience.

Explanation

In Corinth, much of the meat sold in the market came from pagan temple sacrifices. More 'knowledgeable' Christians knew idols had no real power and ate this meat without guilt, but others, coming from an idolatrous past, still associated the act with worshiping false gods and felt troubled or tempted to sin against their own conscience. Paul teaches an enduring principle: being theologically correct does not give license to act without considering the effect on another's faith. Love for the weaker brother must outweigh the full exercise of one's own freedom. Today this applies to any gray area of Christian conduct, where consideration for one's neighbor should moderate personal freedom.

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