THURSDAY, OCTOBER 25
1 Corinthians 10:23-24
1 Corinthians 6:12

“Let no man seek his own ...”

EDIFICATION IS THE GOAL

1 Corinthians 10:23 is very similar to 1 Corinthians 6:12. However, their applications differ. In 1 Corinthians 6:12, Paul was applying the principle of Christian liberty concerning the use of the Christian’s body. They must use their bodies to serve righteousness rather than unrighteousness. Christians must control their bodies for Christ’s sake, and not let their bodies control them!

However, in 1 Corinthians 10:23, Paul was applying the principle of Christian liberty with respect to Christians edifying one another. While there are certain things in life that may be lawful in the sense that they do not infringe any morals, yet they may not necessarily be helpful in promoting the spiritual good of the individual and of others.

Unregenerate men will naturally seek their own (Phil 2:21). However, the believer goes by a different principle. Because he loves his neighbour as himself, he will consider the welfare of his fellow men first. “Let no man seek his own, but every man another’s wealth” (1 Cor 10:24). In the light of the Corinthian situation, it involves the strong considering the conscience of his weaker fellow brethren. While certain things may be lawful, yet a Christian will not partake of those things so as not to defile a weaker brother’s conscience.

Whenever we participate in any activity or decision, consider the following: Will it be good for others? Will it do harm to them? Will it also do damage to my spiritual life? When in doubt, do not proceed! As an application, some online activities and games may be harmless in themselves. You may be able to engage in these activities without being addicted. However, your friend who joins you in this activity may become addicted. It would be good to refrain from this activity so that your friend will not become addicted!

THOUGHT: We must seek to admonish one another in the Lord.
PRAYER: Lord, help me to edify my brethren in the faith.