The Work of Saving People

Summary:Paul teaches that while all things may be lawful, not all are beneficial or edifying. Believers should act not for their own advantage but for the good of others. They may eat whatever is sold in the market or served by unbelievers without raising questions of conscience, but if someone points out that the food was offered to idols, they should abstain for the sake of that person’s conscience. Whatever they do—eating, drinking, or anything else—should be done for the glory of God. They must avoid giving offense to Jews, Greeks, or the church of God, just as Paul seeks to please everyone, not for his own gain but that many may be saved. Teaching:There is a process by which a person comes to attend church and receive salvation, and the way we believers act contributes step by step to that person’s salvation. All food is permissible because all food is given by God; therefore, we should be able and willing to eat anything. The taste of food depends on our attitude. So even if tastes differ, when someone serves you food, eat it with appreciation. At the very least, believers should show this level of consideration. In the Old Testament, there were distinctions between clean and unclean foods, but the New Testament allows flexibility—this flexibility exists for the purpose of winning people. To win others, it may be right to eat food offered to idols, and in some cases, not to eat it. Act according to the other person’s standard in order to win them. “If I partake with thankfulness, why am I slandered concerning that for which I give thanks?”Whatever you eat or do, do it with gratitude. Therefore, do everything for the glory of God. The way to glorify God is to act in consideration of others’ consciences, tastes, and perspectives—to care for those before you and to win them for God. Lead them so that they may receive salvation. Excerpt from the sermon by Pastor Lee, Oct 28, 20251 Corinthian 10:23-33