God’s Truth for Trying Times - 9/12/20

We need God’s truth in trying times. Read the Scripture passage, think about what it is saying, then pray; by yourself or with your household. Let the Word of Christ dwell in you richly (Col. 3:16).

READ: ‬‭‭1 Corinthians‬ ‭10:31-33‬ 

“So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God. Give no offense to Jews or to Greeks or to the church of God, just as I try to please everyone in everything I do, not seeking my own advantage, but that of many, that they may be saved.” (1 Corinthians‬ ‭10:31-33‬)

CONSIDER: A quandary many Christians in the early Church had was regarding eating or drinking something that had been associated with idols. Was is it harmful to their spiritual life? What Paul is getting at here is that while there was nothing inherently evil about it, it should not cause believers or unbelievers to be offended and thereby reject the gospel message on that basis. He did not want what they approved of doing to be spoken of as evil. He did not want their gospel witness soiled. This is a question for us today as it relates to our choices. Will we choose what is best for us or what is best for those around us? Will we choose selfishly or according to what will advance the gospel most?

THINK: What does this declare about God? What are God’s people being called to do? What assurance is given? How does the Word of God transform our hearts and lives and relationships?