Day 4: Positive Influence Part IV

Throughout this week, we’ve looked into 1 Corinthians 8 and tried to evaluate it in context of who it was originally written to, and how it would apply to us in our culture today. One final aspect of 1 Corinthians 8 is to recognize that Paul’s concern wasn’t just for a ‘weaker’ individual. Instead, Paul’s concern was how situations could impact the whole of the church, and even the larger society.

For example, if Person A would happen to eat food sacrificed to idols and Person B (who may be ‘weaker’ in the faith) would happen to see them and stumble as a result, they themselves may do something that would cause another individual to stumble. This pattern may continue over and over again. In fact, this pattern was happening in many ways over and over again throughout the church in Corinth, which is why Paul wrote such a lengthy letter to them to begin with! 

But in his wisdom, Paul was always thinking about the bigger picture. What kind of people must Christians be in order to be a positive example? What kind of decisions must Christians make in order to show they’re thinking through things well? How must Christians live in order to show they’re living full, abundant lives? As you read today, consider this: In what ways is Christianity having a positive influence on our culture and society? 

READING: 1 CORINTHIANS 8:1-13

In what ways is Christianity having a positive influence on our culture and society?

Do you feel like Christians, in general, are truly focused on having a positive influence on our culture and society? 

What is one thing you can be doing in our own community to have more of a positive influence?

F260 READING: (A Scripture Reading Plan for Busy Believers)

Read: Esther 1 & 2

Reflect: What did you H.E.A.R. from God today?

PRAYER:

Heavenly Father, I’m not sure I can recall a time in which I’ve questioned whether the food somebody was putting on the table had been sacrificed to an idol. But I’ve been in many situations that impact how others see me, my family, or my church. Today, I simply pray that I will recognize and live out the full, abundant life You’ve provided me. And may I do so in a way that will build others up, not tear them down. I pray in Jesus’ name. Amen. 

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