1 Corinthians 10:24–26: Let no one seek his own, but each one the other’s well-being. Eat whatever is sold in the meat market, asking no questions for conscience’ sake; for “the earth is the Lord’s, and all its fullness.”
The Christian has a tremendous liberty in Christ. However, we are to seek the welfare of the other man. So a Christian’s life should not be primarily directed and dictated by liberty. Liberty is limited by love. A Christian is not pinned down by legality; he is not circumscribed by strict rules. He is limited by love. He should be concerned about his influence and effect on others. That is the thought which Paul has here. The Christian can enjoy all the things of God’s creation—the beauties of it and the produce of it. The Lord has provided it. Now Paul is going to give a very practical suggestion. He says that when you go out to eat, don’t say to your host, “This is a very lovely steak that you have here today. Where did you get it? My butcher doesn’t have meat like this to sell to the public.” Then your friend may tell you that he went to the temple to buy the meat. The best thing to do is not to ask where the meat came from. 1
Application
- Read 1 Corinthians 13:7. What are four things that love will do?
- How does God’s grace help you bear and endure all things that are difficult in a relationship with a spouse or family member? How does God deposit His hope to your heart in order to believe the best?
Thought to Share
My Christian liberty must be balanced by my Christian love. – TWEET IT
Prayer
Lord, teach me to be a leader that loves others like You do.
1. McGee, J. V. (1991). Thru the Bible commentary: The Epistles (1 Corinthians) (electronic ed., Vol. 44). Nashville: Thomas Nelson.
