Daily Walk Through the New Testament
November 26
Read 1 Corinthians 8:9-9:23

We are so self-absorbed that we often see the effects of our sin on ourselves but fail to see it on others. In the Christian life, we are to be our brother’s keeper. We must not just live to ourselves; we have to consider how our actions and attitudes affect others. This is one of the most glaring yet overlooked problems in the Christian community today. If we truly practice the second greatest commandment, to love our neighbors as ourselves, then how can we be content to ignore becoming a stumbling block to others for whom Christ died?
Paul stated that some Christians were offended by other believers eating meat offered to idols. Today, many believers are offended by those who drink alcohol. Many Christian social drinkers make their case as to why it is permissible, but Paul clearly stated, “When you thus sin against the brethren . . . You sin against Christ” (8:12). What a strong indictment! Paul would not even take a minister’s salary so as not to offend anyone “for the gospel’s sake” (9:23). Neither should we offend others for the gospel’s sake!
Be careful not to be a stumbling block or offense to others today.