As we got back into our "Tour of 1 Corinthians,"
we encountered a passage which on the surface doesn't look like it really applies to us--food sacrificed to idols.
In reality this passage has pervasive principles to apply in how we live out our Christian life. This passage deals with our conscience, that our actions demonstrate that we actually believe. The Scriptures are clear that we ought not violate our conscience, for to do so is sin. Our conscience is just that--our conscience and we can't look down our nose at our brother or sister for what their conscience is telling them. The ramifications about this cover all sorts of grey issues.
The point of the passage though is to exhort the Corinthians (and US) to come alongside and defer to the weaker brother. To demonstrate love, not arrogance towards other Christians. There is a pure
invitation to education and to training the conscience of the less mature believer.
If a more mature Christian just champions what they know and arrogantly deliver it to others...it has a terrible effect.
"
Then the weak person, the brother for whom Christ died, is ruined by your knowledge. Now when you sin like this against the brothers and wound their weak conscience, you are sinning against Christ." (1 Corinthians 8:11, 12 HCSB)
Listen to Pastor Phil's message online Recordings from the Easter Season:The Resurrection is the Final Stamp - Phil Helfer (Easter Sunday Message)
Calvary's Love - Choir Musical (Palm Sunday)
The Greeks Seek Jesus in the Passion Week - Phil Helfer (Message on 4/6)
