Watch Your Conduct

TEXT: 1 CORINTHIANS 10:14-33
Pst W F Kumuyi
Key Verse: “Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God” (1 Corinthians 10:31).

In the ancient idolatrous system of sacrifices, which was the pivot around which the religious, social and domestic life of the first century world revolved, part of the sacrifice was offered to the idol in a temple. This would then be followed by a meal, the remainder of which would either be eaten within the immediate surroundings of the temple or at home. Sometimes, part of the food was sent to the market to be sold.

An invitation to these meals, whether in the temple or in a private house, was a common feature of the social life of the people of Corinth. This posed a serious challenge to a Christian so invited. His decision to accept or decline the invitation was an indication of his attitude to idol worship. In dealing with this problem, Paul the apostle, warned that it would amount to double allegiance by trying to share in the table of the Lord (the Lord's Supper) and the table of demons (verses 21,22).

The Christian is so called because he has been redeemed by the blood of Jesus Christ. He cannot therefore have communion with Christ and the devil at the same time. The Christian today is faced with a choice to remain completely married to Christ or go back to the world of unrestrained liberty or revelling in such societies, clubs and associations whose practices are not just worldly, but run counter to God's commands.

Our guiding principle as believers is that our conveniences and appetites should neither govern us nor determine our Christian practice and conduct.

At all times, our supreme objective should be to do those things that will bring honour to God, lift up the name of Jesus and edify the Church of God. As we pray to God, He will grant us the grace to do so.

 
THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: Aim only for what will glorify God, and nothing more.