1 Corinthians 8:7-9
However, not all possess this knowledge. But some, through former association with idols, eat food as really offered to an idol, and their conscience, being weak, is defiled. Food will not commend us to God. We are no worse off if we do not eat, and no better off if we do. But take care that this right of yours does not somehow become a stumbling block to the weak.
Tag: Knowledge vs Love
In the early Greek culture knowledge was to be pursued and was valued more than other virtues. This culture, during Paul's day, had infiltrated the church. The believers at Corinth were enamored by such knowledge. The "Gnostics" were a philosophical and religious sect that believed that participation with the Divine was through a "knowing." The more they "knew" the more they would become closer to godliness. This "knowing" would , hence, separate them from those who did not "know" at the same level. In the above text Paul is stating that it is true that some believers have more revelation than others (He would later attempt to prove that about himself ... see 1 Corinthians 12). Our current society boasts that, "knowledge is power." It is hard to argue such frameworks of life. But, Paul does. In the above text Paul is states that knowledge is not more powerful than love. He is telling us that "if we love others" we will be conscious of their level of knowledge. We will not put a stumbling block in front of them, but put them first and our preferences second. To Paul "Love is Power." Paul is not preaching a brand of ignorance for Christians, however. His entire life was dedicated in growing the church in knowledge. In chapter three, verse two, of this book he confronts this very church about their staying on "milk" and not ready for "solid food." Paul does not want us ignorant and unknowing. But, he does want us to put the love of others before our own rights, based upon our more perfect knowledge. Love trumps knowledge.
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