1 Corinthians 8:1-13, 10:14-11:1

The issue of whether it was OK to eat meat that had previously been used in idolatry is a very specific issue that may, at first, seem irrelevant. But Paul deals with it so thoroughly that we are able to gain some vital principles to help us deal with corresponding issues today.

1. The issue
-animals were sacrificed to pagan gods
-the meat was then sold in the marketplace

This situation provoked a number of practical questions for the Corinthian Christians. Were they free to buy and/or eat such meat? What if an unbeliever invites them to dinner and serves it? What if they are invited to the pagan temples themselves?

2. The argument FOR eating
a. the idols aren't real. there's only 1 God (8:4-6)
b. the food doesn't make the man (8:8, mark 7:15-20)
c. God made all food, be thankful and eat (10:26, 30)
SO It is permissible. We are free. We have the right.

3. The argument AGAINST eating
a. It may hurt your brother, which IS a sin (8:7, 9-12)
b. Rights and freedoms are sometimes better off refused (9:1-27)
c. It's very easy to fall back into idolatry (10:1-14)
d. Eating it is in some sense participating with demons (10:15-22)
SO It is not beneficial. We sacrifice. We submit (10:23-24)

4. Applications of the Principles (10:25-11:1)
a. Don't be overly paranoid/worried about the meat (10:25-27)
b. If the connection is made clear, don't eat (10:28-30)
~ not b/c you can't, but b/c you won't
c. Put your love for God and others first (10:31-11:1)
~ like Jesus did

5. Corresponding issues in our culture?