protecting the conscience

Good morning brothers and sisters,
This section of Paul's letter is about being Christian in a pagan society and in particular the relation of Christians to idols. It seems that a lot of the meat available in cities like Corinth at that time was offered to idols in some form before being sold. Paul tells his readers that they don't need to screen their meat or examine where it comes from because idols have no power and all good gifts come from God. They are also free to eat whatever a friend serves them for the same reason. But if their host tells them that the meat they are eating was sacrificed to idols, the Christian should decline to eat it. The reason is that they want to avoid the appearance of supporting idol worship.

Obviously, meat sacrificed to idols isn't a big deal for us today, but the principle is very important. The point is that Christians are free to do pretty much anything, but we are also called to protect the conscience of others and to reflect on how our actions represent our faith. That means often we might decide not to do something, not because it's bad, but because it risks giving someone the wrong impression. We're called to live peacefully with others and to do everything we can to show the world Christianity at its best. Our freedom is important, but our witness to God's love is even more important.
blessings as you bear witness today,
Sam

1 Corinthians 9:23-33

23“All things are lawful,” but not all things are beneficial. “All things are lawful,” but not all things build up. 24Do not seek your own advantage, but that of the other. 25Eat whatever is sold in the meat market without raising any question on the ground of conscience, 26for “the earth and its fullness are the Lord’s.” 27If an unbeliever invites you to a meal and you are disposed to go, eat whatever is set before you without raising any question on the ground of conscience.


28But if someone says to you, “This has been offered in sacrifice,” then do not eat it, out of consideration for the one who informed you, and for the sake of conscience— 29I mean the other’s conscience, not your own. For why should my liberty be subject to the judgment of someone else’s conscience? 30If I partake with thankfulness, why should I be denounced because of that for which I give thanks? 31So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do everything for the glory of God. 32Give no offense to Jews or to Greeks or to the church of God, 33just as I try to please everyone in everything I do, not seeking my own advantage, but that of many, so that they may be saved.