1 Corinthians 10:23-11:1 The Passion Translation (TPT)
Disciples of Christ have been commissioned to reach out into the world and make more disciples. Many believers “understand” the call of Christ to proclaim the Good News and some passionately “share” with others the need to be born again. Fewer believers actively “participate” in coming along side other believers to help them mature as they live in God’s glory. Learning to walk in the love of God is challenging. In order to do so, we must break free of the worldly mindset of thinking only of ourselves. We must shake off the fear the enemy sends to halt the progress of righteousness. We must care as much for the spiritual formation of others as we care for ourselves. In our passage today, the Apostle Paul reminds the early church in Corinth to use the freedom grace provides to help others grow up in Christ’s love.
1 Corinthians 10:23-11:1 Living for God’s Glory
23 You say, “Under grace there are no rules and we’re free to do anything we please.” Not exactly. Because not everything promotes growth in others. Your slogan, “We’re allowed to do anything we choose,” may be true—but not everything causes the spiritual advancement of others. 24 So don’t always seek what is best for you at the expense of another. 25 Yes, you are free to eat anything without worrying about your conscience, 26 for the earth and all its abundance belongs to the Lord.
27 So if an unbeliever invites you to dinner, go ahead and eat whatever is served, without asking questions concerning where it came from. 28 But if he goes out of his way to inform you that the meat was actually an offering sacrificed to idols, then you should pass, not only for his sake but because of his conscience. 29 I’m talking about someone else’s conscience, not yours. What good is there in doing what you please if it’s condemned by someone else?
30 So if I voluntarily participate, why should I be judged for celebrating my freedom? 31 Whether you eat or drink, live your life in a way that glorifies and honors God. 32 And make sure you’re not offending Jews or Greeks or any part of God’s assembly over your personal preferences. 33 Follow my example, for I try to please everyone in all things, rather than putting my liberty first. I sincerely attempt to do anything I can so that others may be saved.
Prayer: Lord, help me to be willing to voluntarily live in such a way that honors and glorifies you, as well as provides an example of love for other believers to follow. In Jesus’ name. Amen.