Stumbling Block!

Read 1 Corinthians 8:1-6

Let me give some background from the trusty ESV Study Bible.

Because pagan temples offered parts of animals in sacrifice to the gods, they also often functioned as butcher shops and banqueting halls. Sometimes meals for trade guilds, clubs, and private dinner parties were held in a temple dining room. Often meat from a temple was sold to the public in the marketplace.

So Paul is calling the church in Corinth to not eat this food in the temple. Food itself is not bad. But this food was offered to pagan gods. To put it in simple terms, the meat is unclean.

Read 1 Corinthians 8:7-13

The reason why Paul urges them not to eat in the temples is to protect their weaker brothers and sisters. Not only is it idolatry, it making the church look bad and it is hindering the walks of brothers and sisters in Christ. How does this relate to us? It calls us to sacrifice our bad habits. But doing so will not earn favor with God, instead we are serving God by looking out for the spiritual well-being of those young in their faith. Therefore, if you are doing something that is making a stumbling block for another person, don't do it! This is how we should live in relationship with our brothers and sisters in Christ.

Reflect upon what this looks like in our lives.

Think about the higher expectations we are called to.

Friday: Pray for the Church (Big C)
Pray for our brothers and sisters in Christ who are being persecuted around the world.