Paul discusses a specific situation in Corinth, which
caused a problem for Christians. Pagans participated in offering animal
sacrifices to their gods. Part of the meat was burned on an altar and the rest
was sold for food at the markets. Some Christians had no qualms of buying such
meat for home consumption while others were conscience-stricken at the idea,
for it seemed to them that they were participating in a pagan practice. Paul
says no one should object to meats offered to idols because idols have no
existence. God is the one and only true God. However, if some weaker brothers
still feel it is wrong, those who have the knowledge that God alone is God
should not each such meat to prevent offense and the destruction of their
faith.
There is a difference between knowledge and truth. Not
all knowledge deals with truth. There is a knowledge that just puffs up the
pride of man. The truth of God is authoritative and liberating. Truth is self-authenticating.
It needs no defense nor apology. A knowledge of the truth brings the authority
and liberation to the one who knows. Thus, we constantly emphasize the need for
more and more education.
Luther speaking of “Christian liberty” once said the
Christian is the freest of all men but the servant of all. Our knowledge of God
frees us from superstition, legalism, and a bad conscience, but love enslaves
us for the welfare of our brother who might not yet have such knowledge. How
many Christians today are willing to sacrifice their freedom of life-style to
prevent offending a narrow Christian?
O God, you
know that we cannot withstand the dangers, which surround us. Strengthen us in
body and spirit so that with your help, we may be able to overcome the weakness
that our sins has brought upon us.[1]
[1] A Collect for the Epiphany Season, Lutheran Service Book © 2006 Concordia Publishing House, St. Louis
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