Daily Devotional for Tuesday, July 8

The Confusion

“As concerning therefore the eating of those things that are offered in sacrifice unto idols, we know that an idol is nothing in the world, and that there is none other God but one,” 1 Corinthians 8:4.

One of the most principal beliefs that we stand upon as Christians today, is that there is only one true God. “Thus saith the Lord the King of Israel, and his redeemer the Lord of hosts; I am the first, and I am the last; and beside me there is no God” (Isaiah 44:6). It is true that there are many false gods in the world, but they were created by the imaginations of men. Some have even made men and women into gods to be worshiped, but they have no real power except that which is concocted in the heart of evil men. Beautiful temples have been built for their worship and sacrifices made to their honor, but it is all meaningless. Our God alone is the only true God!

Some of the members of the church at Corinth had this knowledge and were strong in faith and doctrine. It would not trouble them to have eaten food offered to idols because they were aware that an idol is nothing. However, this liberty caused confusion to arise amongst the weaker members. These were most likely babes in Christ and new converts to the church. Eating food sacrificed to idols would be troublesome to their conscience and cause them to stumble.

This should cause us to look at our own example to the weaker members of the church where we are. We may be strong in an area where a brother or sister is weak. Do not look down on them or leave them feeling confused. Come alongside them and help them to grow in their faith and relationship with Jesus Christ. Strengthen the brethren.

REFLECTION

“And he that doubteth is damned if he eat, because he eateth not of faith: for whatsoever is not of faith is sin” (Romans 14:23).

Darla Goodrum