“Everything is permissible,” but not everything is helpful. “Everything is permissible,” but not everything builds up. No one should seek his own good, but the good of the other person.

Eat everything that is sold in the meat market, asking no questions for conscience’ sake, for the earth is the Lord’s, and all that is in it. If one of the unbelievers invites you over and you want to go, eat everything that is set before you, without raising questions of conscience. But if someone says to you, “This is food offered to an idol,” do not eat it, out of consideration for the one who told you, and for conscience’ sake. I do not mean your own conscience, but the other person’s. For why is my freedom judged by another person’s conscience? If I partake with thanks, why am I slandered because of something I give thanks for?

Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do everything for God’s glory. Give no offense to the Jews or the Greeks or the church of God, just as I also try to please all people in all things, not seeking my own profit, but the profit of many, so that they may be saved. Imitate me, as I also imitate Christ.

Today’s scripture invites us to reflect on the concept of freedom and responsibility in the Christian life. Although we have the right, we must use wisdom to discern if our actions are beneficial and edify others or just self-serving. Paul was writing to the Corinthians, who were a group of individuals living in a sophisticated, cosmopolitan city. Judging from Paul’s letters, they were pushing boundaries and living by a mantra that echoes today’s society—”I have the right to do anything.” Such a mindset can lead to actions that may not be wrong per se but may not necessarily build others up.

The real essence of Christian freedom, Paul suggests, is the freedom to seek the good of others ahead of our own. It’s the liberty to volunteer our rights in love in order to build up others without demanding anything in return. Our actions should not be guided by whether we can do something, but whether what we do shines the light of Christ, benefiting and encouraging others.

Paul concludes by urging us to follow his example, as he follows Christ. It’s a beautiful call to discipleship. Discipleship is about mirroring Jesus in thought, word, and deed—it’s choosing to live as He lived, understanding His teachings, and striving to follow His example.

Remember, it’s not about exercising our rights and freedoms but about using them to reflect Godly wisdom, love, and charity. Our aim should always be to edify, shed light, and lead others to Christ. Let us continually remind ourselves to heed Paul’s challenge: “Imitate me, as I also imitate Christ.”

Daily Life Application:

• Use Freedom Wisely: We have freedom in Christ, but we must use it responsibly, making decisions that are constructive and avoiding temptation. Always consider if your choices reflect Jesus’ love and grace.
• Prioritize Others: Christian liberty focuses on the welfare of others. This applies in all aspects of life, like in relationships or at work. Actions should contribute to other’s welfare, not just our own.
• Be a Role Model: Believers should emulate Christ and inspire others to do the same. Live a life that exemplifies Christian faith and guides others towards Jesus.

Questions to Ponder:

1. How does Apostle Paul’s message in this passage inspire us to glorify God not just in our religious acts, but also in our daily activities?
2. What actions can you start implementing in your life to ensure that everything you do is for the glory of God?
3. What specific elements of Jesus’ character and actions can you emulate in your day-to-day life?

Continue Reading:

• Romans 14:1-23, Galatians 5:13-15, Philippians 2:3-4

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Scripture quotations marked HCSB are taken from the Holman Christian Standard Bible®, Used by Permission HCSB ©1999,2000,2002,2003,2009 Holman Bible Publishers. Holman Christian Standard Bible®, Holman CSB®, and HCSB® are federally registered trademarks of Holman Bible Publishers.