Scripture: 1st Corinthians 8:1-7
Now concerning food sacrificed to idols: we know that “all of us possess knowledge.” Knowledge puffs up, but love builds up. Anyone who claims to know something does not yet have the necessary knowledge; but anyone who loves God is known by him. Hence, as to the eating of food offered to idols, we know that “no idol in the world really exists,” and that “there is no God but one.” Indeed, even though there may be so-called gods in heaven or on earth—as in fact there are many gods and many lords— yet for us there is one God, the Father, from whom are all things and for whom we exist, and one Lord, Jesus Christ, through whom are all things and through whom we exist. It is not everyone, however, who has this knowledge. Since some have become so accustomed to idols until now, they still think of the food they eat as food offered to an idol; and their conscience, being weak, is defiled.
Thought for the Day: I am a strong supporter of free speech, even when I don’t like the speech that is offered. I also believe there are groups that should be protected as hate speech is violence, often leading to injury or even death. Now I will let Constitutional Scholars debate where the line is drawn as such arguments are complex — always trying to find the balance between individual rights, the common good, and the desire for domestic tranquility.
Yet as Christians, we have an additional voice to balance in all of this. The Apostle Paul struggled with those who continued to fear meat that had been sacrificed to idols. These concerned individuals believed that somehow the meat was tainted with the power of these other gods. Paul thought such thinking was foolish, but I love how he doesn’t speak dismissively to those who believed otherwise. There is respect, and though our translation has Paul describing them as weak, the word really describes someone who is not established or is not standing where we are standing.
In the news today, there is a lot of talk about groups creating images that depict the Prophet Muhammed. There are cartoon competitions that are described as opportunities for free expression, but their only intention is to be antagonistic and stir trouble. In a country that supports free speech, I am deeply saddened by such disrespect and hate mongering, but I a remain a voice for free speech. But as a Christian speaking to Christians, I believe the words of the Apostle Paul remind us of a higher calling. We need to respect people – individuals – who do not stand where we stand, and for that reason, they may view things differently. Others should not interfere with our ability to practice our faith, but by the humility and grace shown in Jesus Christ, shouldn’t we strive to be respectful of other people and their faith expressions — always remembering that historically Christians have not been tolerant of “controversial” art, especially art that depicted Jesus or Mary in ways that were deemed offensive. At one time, Christians killed Christians for such things. It is always a tough balance, but as a follower of Jesus, I will always try to err on the side of humility, love and respect.
Prayer: By your mercy, O Lord, I seek to follow Jesus and his loving kindness. I love my nation and its commitment to free speech, but keep me humble and respectful. Amen.
TOMORROW’S SERMON
Leap before you Look
Don’t Forget
Tomorrow – June 7
Congregational Meeting
9am in the Forum
Noon in the Centrum
To vote on the new Bylaws
