Scripture: 1st Corinthians 8:9-10
But take care that this liberty of yours does not somehow become a stumbling block to the weak. For if others see you, who possess knowledge, eating in the temple of an idol, might they not, since their conscience is weak, be encouraged to the point of eating food sacrificed to idols?
Thought for the Day: This is part of what might be Paul’s most famous argument. The issue is whether it is ok to eat food sacrificed to idols. The simple answer, “Of course! There are no other gods and so there is nothing to concern us.” Great, let’s eat! Paul then offers a “but”…a very important one. What about those who are very young in their faith. What about those who just last week were at the temples where these idols were worshiped. It is hard to break old habits, and now you want to eat meat that these new converts might have seen sacrificed to that idol just last week. Paul doesn’t want to give an inch on his belief in only one God, but he is also very practical in his teachings – especially when he is dealing with a church that has a very practical problem. One of the great challenges in the church – no matter what century – is how to balance sound theology and pastoral care. There are times that they align perfectly, and then there are those times when one will need to give a little. And most of the time, it will mean a slight bending of the theology to make room for love and compassion – and maybe in the end, that is good sound theology.
Prayer: Your grace, Lord God, has always provided extra room to show compassion and concern for sisters and brothers. Thank you, Lord, for those times when I will need that little extra understanding and love. Amen.
BIG SATURDAY
AT CYPRESS CREEK
2 thoughts on “Ecclesiological Etchings: 01-26-17”
Fantastic Pastor! And its only January!
Luke 10:27 ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind’; and, ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.'”
I think if it involves love, Jesus is going to be OK with it.
Having been thrown out of one church and asked to leave another I think God wants me to be in His creation playing golf Sunday morning. Bit if I did go to church again I would go to yours. Not sure if that’s a ringing endorsement.
I think I might purchase an ad and use your words as one of the best endorsements ever! Thanks, Bill!!!