Love Over Knowledge, the Gospel Over Rights.

In 1 Corinthians 8, Paul explains that although we may have knowledge of God, acting purely based on that knowledge—such as eating food sacrificed to idols—can cause others whose faith is weaker to stumble and even lose their faith.

In other words, just because we have the freedom to enjoy something doesn’t mean we should always do so. We are called to live with love and consideration for others. A mature faith is one that takes into account the hearts and consciences of others. That’s why self-control is necessary. Love is a greater power than knowledge.

In chapter 9, Paul applies this teaching to himself. Even though he had the right to enjoy many privileges, he gave them up for the sake of the gospel. The work of God’s Kingdom, he says, is not built on claiming our rights, but on sacrifice and service.

When we insist on exercising all our rights, conflicts arise. We must learn to be patient and to yield. This is true in our homes, in the church, and in the workplace.

When we sacrifice for the gospel, we experience true freedom. When we lay down our desires and comfort, real freedom comes. Giving up our free time to worship, adjusting our schedules to serve others—this is what sacrifice looks like.

Such discipline—learning self-control and the willingness to give up our rights—makes us mature and spiritual people. Giving up things we could enjoy in order to keep our prayer time, read the Word, worship faithfully, and serve others in the church—these are the practices that help us grow, mature, and bear fruit.

Then in chapter 10, Paul expands this teaching further: even in eating and drinking, we should do everything for the glory of God. We must ask ourselves whether our thoughts, words, and actions bring glory to God, and live by that standard.

When we drift away from living for God’s glory and begin to focus on ourselves, sin inevitably finds its way in through our fleshly desires. Sin begins with small compromises. Therefore, we must make God’s glory the measure for everything we do.

In 1 Corinthians 11:1, Paul says, “Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ.” The life of faith is about following the path that Jesus and the pioneers of faith walked before us—it is something we both model and pass on.

We should desire to follow our Lord Jesus Christ, who set the perfect example for us, and also become examples of faith ourselves. Our faith should not be one that stands alone, but one that helps and builds up others. May we all become such people of faith, in the name of the Lord.