1 Corinthians 8:9
Verse
Context
Food Sacrificed to Idols
8But food does not bring us closer to God: We are no worse if we do not eat, and no better if we do.9Be careful, however, that your freedom does not become a stumbling block to the weak.10For if someone with a weak conscience sees you who are well informed eating in an idol’s temple, will he not be encouraged to eat food sacrificed to idols?
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
But take heed - Lest by frequenting such feasts and eating things offered to idols, under the conviction that an idol is nothing, and that you may eat those things innocently, this liberty of yours should become a means of grievously offending a weak brother who has not your knowledge, or inducing one who respects you for your superior knowledge to partake of these things with the conscience, the persuasion and belief, that an idol is something, and to conclude, that as you partake of such things, so he may also, and with safety. He is not possessed of your superior information on this point, and he eats to the idol what you take as a common meal.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
this liberty of yours--the watchword for lax Corinthians. The very indifference of meats, which I concede, is the reason why ye should "take heed" not to tempt weak brethren to act against their conscience (which constitutes sin, Rom 14:22-23).
John Gill Bible Commentary
But take heed lest by any means,.... This is either a reply to the instance of such as argued in favour of eating things offered to idols; or a limitation and explanation of the apostle's own concession, that it made a man, with respect to the favour of God, neither better nor worse: yet care should be taken, lest this liberty of yours become a stumblingblock to them that are weak; he owns they had a liberty, or a right, or power, as the word may be rendered, of eating, or not eating, as they pleased; but then they ought to be cautious, lest they should be the means of offending, or causing to offend, such who were weak in the faith, and had not that knowledge of Christian liberty they had: not the use of their power and liberty is here denied, but the abuse of it is guarded against; for though the action itself was indifferent, yet as it might be used, it might be sinful, being attended with very bad consequences, such as hereafter mentioned.
1 Corinthians 8:9
Food Sacrificed to Idols
8But food does not bring us closer to God: We are no worse if we do not eat, and no better if we do.9Be careful, however, that your freedom does not become a stumbling block to the weak.10For if someone with a weak conscience sees you who are well informed eating in an idol’s temple, will he not be encouraged to eat food sacrificed to idols?
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
(Basics) 70. Proving God's Perfect Will(3)
By Zac Poonen2.4K13:05PRO 11:14MAT 6:33ROM 12:2ROM 14:131CO 8:91JN 2:171JN 2:28In this sermon, the speaker discusses how to find the perfect will of God for our lives. They emphasize that in the new covenant age, God primarily speaks to us through our renewed mind and the Holy Spirit. The speaker provides twelve questions that we can ask ourselves to determine if a course of action aligns with God's will. These questions include considering if it is in line with the teachings of Jesus and the apostles, if it can be done with a clear conscience, if it brings glory to God, and if it can be done in fellowship with Jesus. The speaker also highlights the importance of seeking guidance from wiser and more mature believers.
Following Christ (Springfield Conference)
By Paul Washer2.1K44:50Following JesusPRO 3:5MAT 5:28MAT 22:37ROM 12:11CO 8:91TI 4:7JAS 1:19In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of understanding who God is and what He has done for us in Christ as the motivation for living the Christian life. The first 11 chapters of the book of Romans are highlighted, where Paul addresses the fallen state of humanity and the radical depravity of mankind. However, Paul also reveals the great work that God has done for us in Christ, offering salvation by faith. The speaker encourages believers to offer their lives as a response to God's grace and to discipline themselves to godliness through studying the Word of God and seeking godly counsel.
The Year That We Flourish
By Carter Conlon1.9K45:16PSA 133:1MRK 9:241CO 1:31CO 6:181CO 8:91CO 9:141CO 10:121CO 13:13This sermon emphasizes the importance of unity, faith, purity, forgiveness, and selflessness in the church community. It calls for a commitment to flourishing in God's way, walking in the power of the Holy Spirit, and living for the benefit of others. The speaker urges the congregation to learn from past mistakes, embrace God's promises, and be faithful in prayer and service.
Epistle 362
By George Fox0Christian LibertyServing OthersACT 6:9ROM 8:211CO 8:91CO 10:29GAL 2:4GAL 5:1GAL 5:131PE 2:162PE 2:192PE 2:22George Fox emphasizes the importance of standing firm in the liberty granted by Christ, urging believers to use their freedom not for selfish desires but to serve one another in love. He warns against the dangers of false liberty that leads to corruption and encourages the faithful to be vigilant against those who would seek to undermine their freedom in Christ. Fox highlights the apostolic teachings that call for a careful and responsible exercise of this liberty, ensuring it does not become a stumbling block for others. Ultimately, he calls for a life lived in the heavenly order of Christ, filled with His spirit and power, for the glory of God.
1 Corinthians 8:1
By St. John Chrysostom0ROM 14:101CO 8:11CO 8:41CO 8:71CO 8:91CO 8:11John Chrysostom preaches about the importance of considering the impact of our actions on others, especially the weak in faith, emphasizing the need to prioritize love over knowledge. He warns against causing others to stumble by our behavior, even if we have the freedom to do certain things. Chrysostom highlights the significance of abstaining from actions that may harm our brothers and sisters in Christ, reminding us that Christ died for all, including the weak. He urges believers to prioritize the well-being of others over personal liberties, showing love and consideration for fellow believers.
Day 125, Romans 14
By David Servant0ROM 14:31CO 8:9GAL 5:13COL 2:161TH 5:221TI 5:21JAS 4:12David Servant preaches on the importance of respecting and loving one another despite differing personal convictions, using the example of believers in Rome and Corinth who had conflicting views on eating meat sacrificed to idols. He emphasizes the need for mutual respect and understanding, rather than judgment and contempt, among believers with varying convictions. Paul's message in Romans 14 highlights that the kingdom of God is about righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit, not about non-essential matters like food or drink. The sermon addresses contemporary issues like Sabbath-keeping, alcohol consumption, and holiday celebrations, urging Christians to be fully convinced in their own minds and to prioritize love and respect for one another.
Rules for the Conduct of Celibate Brethren
By Clement of Rome0ROM 14:131CO 8:9PHP 2:151TH 4:31PE 1:15Clement of Rome emphasizes the importance of maintaining purity and avoiding situations that may cause others to stumble. He instructs believers to be mindful of their actions and interactions with the opposite sex, ensuring they conduct themselves in a blameless manner. By upholding these standards, they demonstrate their reverence for God and strive to live without causing offense to anyone.
How Carefully Stumbling-Blocks Must Be Avoided
By Clement of Rome0PRO 4:23MAT 5:8ROM 14:131CO 8:91CO 10:321TH 5:221TI 5:21PE 2:111JN 2:10Clement of Rome emphasizes the importance of being cautious and avoiding situations that may lead to temptation or false accusations, even if it means refraining from good deeds like praying or reading Scriptures in the presence of a lone believing woman. He urges believers to prioritize the well-being and spiritual growth of others over personal desires, especially in matters that could cause a fellow believer to stumble or be led astray. Clement stresses the need to love God and neighbor by being vigilant not to be a stumbling block to anyone, whether Jew, Gentile, or fellow Christian, and to always act in a way that promotes purity and righteousness.
Guidelines for the Godly Man
By Eli Brayley0GEN 4:6GEN 5:3LEV 19:28PSA 1:1PSA 5:3PSA 55:17PSA 103:2PRO 8:8PRO 10:11PRO 10:19PRO 15:3ISA 29:23MAT 5:16MAT 6:1MAT 12:37MAT 18:20MAT 23:25MRK 2:16LUK 3:11LUK 6:45LUK 12:57JHN 3:30JHN 14:5JHN 17:4JHN 17:15ACT 2:441CO 8:91CO 10:311CO 12:41CO 15:332CO 5:20GAL 2:20PHP 1:27PHP 3:81TI 4:82TI 2:21JAS 3:111PE 3:31PE 3:161JN 3:14Eli Brayley preaches on the calling of the man of God to live a life of full consecration, obedience, and service unto the Kingdom of God. The purpose of the man of God is to conform to the image of the Father, just as Jesus Christ did on earth, bringing glory to God in all things. This calling requires a solitary practice of devotion through regular study of the Word and prayer, done privately for God's eyes only. In the public sphere, the man of God must represent God on earth by displaying the fruit of the Spirit, maintaining an above-reproach lifestyle, and presenting Christ through every aspect of his being.
Relations With Our Brethren
By R.V. Court0ROM 14:151CO 8:91CO 8:11PHP 2:5In this sermon by R.V. Court, Paul addresses the Corinthian church members with 'knowledge' who understand their liberty in Christ but are causing stumbling blocks for weaker believers. He emphasizes the importance of being mindful of our actions, especially in areas where others may be uncertain or weaker in faith, as it can lead them astray. Paul highlights the preciousness of every believer to Christ, urging the more knowledgeable Christians to consider the impact of their behavior on those who may be easily influenced. The apostle's message revolves around the sacrificial love of Christ and the responsibility we have towards our fellow believers to not cause harm or lead them into sin.
Part 3: Conclusion of the Treatise
By Martin Luther0ROM 3:28ROM 14:11CO 8:91CO 10:231CO 10:32GAL 5:1GAL 5:13EPH 2:8JAS 2:261PE 2:16Martin Luther concludes his treatise by emphasizing the balance between faith and works in the Christian life. He explains that while faith alone justifies a person before God, good works are necessary for serving others and subduing the body. Luther warns against seeking justification through works alone, highlighting the importance of faith in Christ's mercy. He encourages Christians to live in liberty of faith, understanding that works are done out of love for God and service to others, not for personal merit or salvation. Luther urges believers to navigate the balance between liberty in faith and respect for ceremonial traditions, showing love and consideration for both the weak in faith and the obstinate legalists.
Concerning True Liberty
By George Fox0True LibertyChristian FreedomJHN 8:36ACT 6:9ROM 6:181CO 8:92CO 3:17GAL 2:4GAL 5:1GAL 5:131PE 2:162PE 2:19George Fox emphasizes the importance of true liberty in Christ, urging believers to stand firm in their freedom while serving one another in love. He warns against using this liberty as a cover for wrongdoing and highlights the dangers of false freedom that leads to corruption. Fox references the apostolic teachings, reminding the faithful to be vigilant against those who would seek to undermine their liberty in Christ. He encourages Christians to discern between true and false liberty, ensuring their actions glorify God. Ultimately, he prays for the preservation of believers in the heavenly order of Christ.
The Freedom of Simple Christians
By Robert H. Boll0ISA 29:13ROM 14:4ROM 16:171CO 1:101CO 8:9GAL 5:1EPH 4:32TI 2:151PE 4:10Robert H. Boll addresses the importance of being simply Christians, distinct from sectarian bodies, by belonging solely to the New Testament church. He emphasizes that a true Christian is one who is wholly committed to Jesus Christ, accepting Him as Lord and Savior without divided loyalties to human authorities. The New Testament church consists of baptized believers who are free from human creeds, united by their faith in Christ and mutual love, responsible directly to the Lord for their actions, and committed to growing in unity through studying God's word together.
Can God Use Rock Music?
By Keith Green01SA 16:7PRO 4:23MAT 15:18ROM 14:161CO 8:91CO 9:221CO 10:31GAL 5:13COL 3:171TH 5:21Keith Green addresses the controversial topic of using rock music in Christian ministry, sharing his personal struggles and insights on the matter. He discusses the differing opinions within the Christian community regarding the use of rock music for evangelism and worship, emphasizing the importance of examining one's motives and heart condition. Green highlights the need for Christians to surpass worldly standards and focus on glorifying God with pure intentions, rather than seeking self-exaltation. He challenges the notion of labeling music as inherently 'evil,' stressing that it is the heart behind the music that determines its impact.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
But take heed - Lest by frequenting such feasts and eating things offered to idols, under the conviction that an idol is nothing, and that you may eat those things innocently, this liberty of yours should become a means of grievously offending a weak brother who has not your knowledge, or inducing one who respects you for your superior knowledge to partake of these things with the conscience, the persuasion and belief, that an idol is something, and to conclude, that as you partake of such things, so he may also, and with safety. He is not possessed of your superior information on this point, and he eats to the idol what you take as a common meal.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
this liberty of yours--the watchword for lax Corinthians. The very indifference of meats, which I concede, is the reason why ye should "take heed" not to tempt weak brethren to act against their conscience (which constitutes sin, Rom 14:22-23).
John Gill Bible Commentary
But take heed lest by any means,.... This is either a reply to the instance of such as argued in favour of eating things offered to idols; or a limitation and explanation of the apostle's own concession, that it made a man, with respect to the favour of God, neither better nor worse: yet care should be taken, lest this liberty of yours become a stumblingblock to them that are weak; he owns they had a liberty, or a right, or power, as the word may be rendered, of eating, or not eating, as they pleased; but then they ought to be cautious, lest they should be the means of offending, or causing to offend, such who were weak in the faith, and had not that knowledge of Christian liberty they had: not the use of their power and liberty is here denied, but the abuse of it is guarded against; for though the action itself was indifferent, yet as it might be used, it might be sinful, being attended with very bad consequences, such as hereafter mentioned.