The Corinthian Christians were very interested in their rights and freedom. They didn’t appreciate anyone telling them what to do. An overly narrow legalism was not a problem in this church. Without advocating a system of specific rules governing the details of Christian behavior, in chapters 8 – 10 Paul explains how limiting our freedom can further the cause of the gospel.
Every church has to deal with differing levels of maturity and biblical knowledge within its congregation. This can lead to differing opinions on issues of conscience regarding what may or may not be done. In this chapter Paul teaches us that love is a better guide than knowledge on issues of conscience. Love considers what is best for others above our own personal freedom.
Morality was very confused in Corinth. So, it was hard for people, new and growing Christians, to fathom the rights and wrongs of marriage. Was singleness better? Was celibacy a superior spiritual state? Or was marriage holier? That is what many of the rabbis taught. The Corinthians were confused, so Paul is going to clear this up for them – and us.
The Corinthian church thought they were pretty smart. Paul knocks them down a few notches in this chapter, pointing out that they really don’t know very much. He asks them the question “Do you not know?” six times in the chapter’s 20 verses. Let’s be sure to learn these lessons so that we can be a spiritually intelligent church.
Central Reflections 