Re:Verse reading–1 Corinthians 8 and 1 Corinthians 10:22-33 (day two) All things are lawful, but not all things are profitable. All things are lawful, but not all things edify. 10:23
If I can have it, and I want it…I should get it, right? Notice nothing in that question stated motive or circumstance. If you can have something, meaning it is not immoral, illegal, or harmful, then why should there be a problem getting what you want?
Here is Paul stated another way: Just because you can do something, it does not mean that you should do that thing.
If we have a Christian world-view our hearts should constantly burn for an unbelieving world. If abstinence from some activity will help strengthen your witness, are you willing to give up a behavior? Paul is reminding us that the action in question may not be “bad”, but we are called to consider others. There are larger issues at stake than our own creature comforts and desires. Is being a stumbling block to your unsaved friends worth it?
