Saturday January 27th, 2018 1 Corinthians 8:1-13
But take care that this liberty of yours does not somehow become a stumbling block to the weak. (verse 9)
A controversy had arisen in Corinth, dealing with eating meat sacrificed to idols. The apostle Paul dealt with this controversy with as much love and discretion as possible. Pagans in Corinth would offer animal sacrifice to an idol. Some meat would be saved to be eaten by those who had offered it. Paul said on the one hand, since Christians do not believe in idols, he saw no problem in eating the meat. On the other hand, those new to Christianity from pagan backgrounds could find such eating very confusing and contradictory to their new Christian beliefs.
Paul proposed a compromise of sorts. Yes, it would be legal for Christians to eat such meat. But sensitivity to some in the community and simple respect said otherwise. For the sake of the fragile faith of others, Paul asked the whole community to refrain from eating meat sacrificed to idols.
I doubt if this controversy is front and centre in any of our Canadian parishes. But we can still learn significant lessons about love, respect and understanding for others in our communities. My actions can be hurtful to others. My insensitivity can sour others on the Christian faith. My caring attitude can draw others to Christ.
Loving God, may I not hinder others on their Christian journey. Amen. — JRG
Contributed by Stumbling Blocks
A controversy had arisen in Corinth, dealing with eating meat sacrificed to idols. The apostle Paul dealt with this controversy with as much love and discretion as possible. Pagans in Corinth would offer animal sacrifice to an idol. Some meat would be saved to be eaten by those who had offered it. Paul said on the one hand, since Christians do not believe in idols, he saw no problem in eating the meat. On the other hand, those new to Christianity from pagan backgrounds could find such eating very confusing and contradictory to their new Christian beliefs.
Paul proposed a compromise of sorts. Yes, it would be legal for Christians to eat such meat. But sensitivity to some in the community and simple respect said otherwise. For the sake of the fragile faith of others, Paul asked the whole community to refrain from eating meat sacrificed to idols.
I doubt if this controversy is front and centre in any of our Canadian parishes. But we can still learn significant lessons about love, respect and understanding for others in our communities. My actions can be hurtful to others. My insensitivity can sour others on the Christian faith. My caring attitude can draw others to Christ.
