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"Not all things edify."

Text: 1 Corinthians 10:23

BIBLICAL TEACHINGS AS APHORISM

“Paul was a master at putting Biblical doctrines into a “nutshell. These become “aphorisms”. While this is useful there are limitations. These must be explained further.

“All things are lawful for me, but not all things are helpful;
all things are lawful for me, but not all things edify.
Let no one seek his own, but each one the other’s well-being.”
1 Corinthians 10:23-24

1. “All things are lawful for me”

a) This was first stated in 1 Corinthians 6:12.

b) This aphorism is now applied here in 1 Corinthians 10:23.

c) Paul maintained that he was not bound by “the law” because of his freedom in Christ.

d) Nevertheless, he knew that he must be careful how he applied this aphorism in life!

2. The applications are slightly different

a) The declaration is important to note. All things are indeed “lawful” (Same phrase in 1 Corinthians 6:12 and 10:23).

b) Not “all things” are helpful.

c) Not “all things” are edifying.

3. “Let no one seek his own”

a) This was a major problem in the church in Corinth.

i) There wasn’t much sensitivity to others.

ii) There was altogether too much self-interest!

b) Many were not conscious of others and their needs.

i) The weak had needs.

ii) They were particularly vulnerable.

c) Seeking one’s own interest may result in the following:

i) A careless attitude towards others.

ii) A callous attitude may ultimately result.

iii) Some may be hurt.

iv) Some others may be stumbled.

v) The so-called “strong” may end up sinning against the Lord.

vi) There may be in danger of provoking the Lord to anger.

And this could happen if they continued to be “in fellowship with demons!”