The Christian and Others: Learning vs. Loving 1 Corinthians 8:1-13
Some find chapters 8-10 a little hard to follow, but if considered together, we see they are about one thing: Idolatry, in general, and in particular, whether or not to eat meat which had been sacrificed in pagan temples. In chapter eight, Paul explains that even though to a thoroughly knowledgeable believer, an idol is nothing, others (new Christians) have not quite processed that thought. What about them? Then, in chapter nine, Paul uses himself as an example. Even though as an apostle, he is “free” on many levels, he voluntarily gives up those rights for the gospel, so that people will be saved. Chapter ten ties it all together, warning the arrogant, assuring the weak, and giving practical examples which show that we must do all things, even mundane eating and drinking, to the glory of God in the salvation of sinners. He concludes the section in 11:1 with, “Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ.” It’s all back to Jesus.