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"Concerning things offered to idols"

Text: 1 Corinthians 8:1

THE PRACTICE OF IDOLATRY

The problem of idolatry was a widespread problem in the first century. It was rife in the city of Corinth. Paul’s advice was sought on how the believer ought to view this subject of idolatry.

“Now concerning things offered to idols:
We know that we all have knowledge.
Knowledge puffs up, but love edifies.
And if anyone thinks that he knows anything,
he knows nothing yet as he ought to know.”
1 Corinthians 8:1-2

1. “Now concerning things offered to idols”

a) This was a specific reference.

b) What about the “things offered to idols?”

c) This was the question that must have been put forward to Paul.

2. “We know that we all have knowledge”

a) As an apostle of the Lord Jesus Christ, Paul would have been well-instructed.

b) Thus, he can claim to have knowledge of the subject of food offered to idols.

c) However, he was aware that there were others who claimed to have as much knowledge on the subject.

3. “Knowledge puffs up”

a) Is knowledge alone sufficient?

b) The phrase “puffs up” is important to note.

i) It is closely related to the idea of that which comes from the natural man.

ii) Thus, one may distinguish between “natural knowledge” and “revealed knowledge”.

iii) Natural knowledge is not what God has given.

iv) It arises from within the man.

v) This was the knowledge that Paul warned against.

This kind of knowledge leads to arrogance (the idea of being “puffed up”).

4. “But love edifies”

a) It is interesting to see that “love” was offered as a direct contrast to “natural knowledge”.

b) Love is offered as the better alternative rather than mere human knowledge (that everyone has).

5. “If anyone thinks that he knows”

a) Paul was aware that many in Corinth had their own ideas how to approach this subject.

b) His advice was to be humble and to be prepared to learn as one who has yet to be taught fully.