Day 63
Today’s reading: 1 Corinthians 8:1-13
Love is Sacrifice
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Love is Sacrifice 〰️
Reflections
In the life and ministry of Jesus, one recurring theme stands out above all—love. Jesus frequently rebuked the Pharisees and scribes, not for their knowledge of the law, but for their lack of love. Throughout Scripture, we see that God deeply cares about how we love others. It is not enough to have knowledge of the gospel or to understand our rights and freedoms in Christ; love must govern that knowledge. Love must shape our actions. Love must guide how we speak the truth.
In today’s world, we may not face the issue of food offered to idols, but consider something like alcohol. You may understand that drinking alcohol is not inherently sinful, but imagine you have a fellow believer who refuses to go near it. Love means being mindful of their convictions and choosing not to drink in their presence, so as not to cause them to stumble. Perhaps they have experienced the dangers of alcohol firsthand or seen its destructive effects, leading them to equate it with sin. Love is not just avoiding actions that may harm another’s faith—it is also being able to speak the truth with compassion and patience, helping them grow in understanding while honoring their journey.
Study Questions
According to Paul in this chapter, who is a “weak believer”?
In what ways could your knowledge and the way you express it lead a “weaker Christian” back into sinful practices? How can you show honor and consideration for fellow believers, regardless of their spiritual maturity?
What does Paul mean in verse 9 when he warns that our freedom should not become a stumbling block? How can we apply this principle in our daily lives?
What did you learn about God’s nature, His ways and His will from today’s reading?
Highlight
“yet for us there is one God, the Father, from whom are all things and for whom we exist, and one Lord, Jesus Christ, through whom are all things and through whom we exist.” 1 Corinthians 8:6 ESV
