1 Corinthians 10:1-13
We have to remember where we are. In chapter 8, Paul introduced the problem of meat that had been offered to idols. In the first few verses, Paul laid out two big ideas—one, that there is only one God (and therefore, food offered to idols is morally neutral) and two, that a Christian should be guided by love for other people. Even if we have knowledge, we should show consideration for the ignorance of others. Under that point, Paul established what I called 'The Principle of Renunciation'--sometimes it is wise and loving to avoid something, even though it is not a sin, or to do something, even though it is not a duty. In chapter 9, Paul showed himself as an example of this—he showed how he gave up many of the rights he had as an apostle. He did this out of his love for God and his desire to win others. But he ended the passage by speaking of living carefully because of the danger of temptation and backsliding. That leads to a second principle he establishes in chapter 10. Paul ...
