November 11, 2014

1 Corinthians 10: 23 “All things are lawful,” but not all things are helpful. “All things are lawful,” but not all things build up.

 Paul is explaining things to his church again. The issue of the law never leaves the early church. Paul acknowledges the past, but he says that Jesus changed everything. The law no longer binds Christians, but they should be bound by a duty to their fellow man. Feel free to do as you like, but be careful that you are making the most of your time on Earth.

 Paul really sets me on edge at times. In the very next chapter, we get the misogynist Paul. True, he is a product of the culture he was raised in. But it's hard to take when he so clearly hears the voice of God in one chapter, like this one, and he is so far from my prayerful insights in the next. I am going to accept the misogyny coming in his next chapter by holding it up to the standard of this verse. All things, including equal status for women was always lawful, but it was not helpful in his day. Today the Lord needs powerful women to see that His will is done, to build up His church.

 Prayer: Lord, guide my study of the Bible. I am seeking Your will in Your word. Let me find what I need in order to follow the path You would have me take. I praise You and the gift of faith You have granted me. Help me to grow in faith. Amen to