Bible Reading: 1 Corinthians 10
1 Corinthians 10:24 Let no man seek his own, but every man another's wealth.
What a thought! Do you really think that is what the Bible means? How would you make a living is you sought another’s wealth and not your own? Are we really supposed to focus on helping others to prosper? The context of this scripture is that of eating meat sacrificed to idols. The Bible is speaking of seeking the spiritual wealth of others as we are careful not to violate another’s conscience. Paul is very pointed that he worked hard not to violate another’s conscience by his liberty. In other words, there was meat that had been sacrificed to idols. He said if you don’t know where the meat came from, simply eat it and thank God for it. But if you know that it was offered in sacrifice to an idol, don’t eat it.
That is simple but challenging. The reality is that Gentiles who worshipped idols were really worshipping devils.
1 Corinthians 10:20 But I say, that the things which the Gentiles sacrifice, they sacrifice to devils, and not to God: and I would not that ye should have fellowship with devils.
Don’t participate in the worship of devils. By this you are a testimony to two groups of people. You are a testimony to the idol worshipper that you will not join with him in his worship. You are also a testimony to a new believer in Christ that you are not trying to straddle the fence.
Do you see eating as a part of your worship of God? Well, it is.
1 Corinthians 10:31 Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.
Eating and drinking are things we should do to the glory of God. If you cannot eat food and glorify God, then don’t do it. This would apply today to certain restaurants and places to eat. Can you eat there and glorify God? If not, then don’t go. As a believer if your being there could cause someone to stumble, don’t go. It is not about you. It’s about God and others.
1 Corinthians 10:33 Even as I please all men in all things, not seeking mine own profit, but the profit of many, that they may be saved.
Live to help others be saved!
In Christ,
Rody
