Our scripture this morning is 1 Corinthians 10:31-33.
So whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God. Don’t give offense to Jews or Gentiles or the church of God. I, too, try to please everyone in everything I do. I don’t just do what is best for me; I do what is best for others so that many may be saved.
This passage concludes Paul’s teaching on giving up one’s rights out of love. There was discussion of whether eating meat that was sacrificed to idols was permitted in 1 Corinthians 8. Paul tells us we may know the action is not wrong (since idols are nothing) but it may cause others to weaken in faith and that is not Christian living.
This speaks to what we say and do as the family of God, that our words and actions have eternal consequences, both for ourselves and others. It doesn’t mean we follow whatever the current whim of society is, but that we do our best to live our faith gently when possible and firmly when needed.
Following Jesus is all about giving glory to God in all we do, and doing what’s best for others as the example. This is living out the Greatest Commandment to love God and neighbor. We must be willing to deny ourselves as Christ did in order that “many may be saved.”
Heavenly Father, we are grateful to be called part of Your family. Help us to live in faith as Your children, sharing Your love and bringing the world to You. Amen.
