1 Corinthians 10:23-33

“Conscience tells us that we ought to do right, but it does not tell us what right is–that we are taught by God’s word,” once wrote the 19th century editor and author H. C. Trumbull.

This text deals with matters of conscience, Christian freedom, and personal responsibility. It speaks to our relationship to fellow Christians to respect their conscience, while not allowing others’ conscience to be our guide.

The specific issue involved eating meat. But it wasn’t a matter of healthy eating or diet. But it involved personal scruples regarding meat that came from animal sacrifices.

The first century Greco-Roman world was idolatrous and pagan. Worship of their gods often involved animal sacrifices. The meat from those animals was sold in markets. While this sounds strange to us, whether to purchase and eat that meat was an issue in the first century church.

It bothered the consciences of Gentile converts who identified the meat with their previous pagan worship. For others, it was no big deal. Yet, it was serious enough that the Holy Spirit devoted this text, 1 Corinthians 8 and Romans 14 to the issue.

Through the years there have been many issues among brethren that involve celebration of holidays, choices of entertainment, personal lifestyle, political affiliation, career choices, participation in government, and involvement in various organizations or clubs.

The principles enunciated regarding the eating of meat are timeless and provide some insight and direction for modern day conscience challenges.

#1 The edification principle.

Paul said, “All things are lawful for me, but not all things are helpful; all things are lawful for me, but not all things edify.”

An activity may not necessarily be sinful, but does it encourage my spirituality? Does it build up? Does it control me or do I control it? Furthermore, does it tear down, discourage, or hinder others who I may involve in this activity?

#2 The “Golden Rule” principle.

Paul implored, “Let no one seek his own, but let each one the other’s well being.”

Am I treating others the way I want to be treated? Am I seeking their welfare? Are my choices selfish to the point of hindering other Christians?

In Romans 15:1-2 the Bible says, “We who are strong have an obligation to bear with the failings of the weak, and not to please ourselves. Let each of us please his neighbor for his good, to build him up.”

Christians should be careful to avoid things that offend and hurt the conscience of a weaker brother.

#3 The “no questions asked” principle

Paul advised, “Eat whatever is sold in the meat market, asking no questions for conscience’ sake.”

He further instructed if you’re invited to someone’s house, eat what you’re offered “asking no questions.”

There are times it is better not to know or bring up an issue that causes concern, controversy or consternation. The old adage “let sleeping dogs lie,” is often a good rule to follow.

#4 The live to win souls principle.

Paul was concerned about winning and saving souls. He didn’t want to abuse his freedom in Christ or wield it in an irresponsible way. Liberty does not give us license to behave in a way which harms the souls of others. Soul saving must be of the highest priority.

#5 The glorify God principle.

“Whatever you do, do all to the glory of God,” Paul concluded.

Do my attitudes, actions, choices and interactions with others give God glory? I must ask is “God pleased with my behavior?” Putting God in the center of our decision making will solve a lot of our personal problems, as well as relationships issues within the church.

The application of this first century problem reminds us that our freedom in Christ must be balanced by personal responsibility toward others.

–Ken Weliever, The Preacherman