Knowledge and Love

Introduction

A. Some sins are easily recognized as sin. Things like immorality, dishonesty, jealousy, etc.

B. Many things fall into an area that is not as clear-cut. How do we make decisions on these?

1. The Corinthians had a problem in this area.

2. Verses and state the problem of eating meat sacrificed to an idol.

3. The Scriptural answers to their problem ought to help us make decisions in the so-called “gray” areas.

I. Two Fine Helpers are Knowledge and Love (vv. )

A. Knowledge.

1. Remember, Paul was educated but he gives warnings about knowledge.

2. “Knowledge puffs up” (v. ).

B. Love.

1. The Corinthians had knowledge.

2. Some scholars think that Paul refers to their knowledge in verses .

C. Knowledge and love must be kept in balance.

1. Knowledge without love can lead to pride and legalism.

2. Love without knowledge can lead to wrong doing.

II. Factors That Help Balance Knowledge and Love (vv. )

A. Be careful about freedom (v. ).

1. We have more freedom as we mature physically. This same truth holds in the spiritual realm.

2. Don’t use your Christian freedom as a stumbling block to others who are not spiritually mature.

B. Be careful about conscience (v. ).

1. Conscience operates in accordance with the way we are taught.

2. A “weak conscience” may be overly sensitive and judgmental.

3. Verses and can be applied to many questions of right and wrong.

4. Our actions and lifestyle must always consider our influence on others (v. ).

Conclusion

A. There are some things we do not do because of others.

B. We may also live by some rules that we must not force on other Christians.

C. Make every attempt to keep knowledge and love in proper balance.

Illustration

As a child, I was constantly warned by my mother about things that could hurt and harm. As a mature person, I no longer need those warnings. However, my maturity gives me an obligation toward those who are immature. I must not leave situations that might harm them.

I have read that conscience might be viewed as an “internal court.” It comes to me that courts in different counties may be regulated by different laws and come to different conclusions. Our conscience must be regulated and educated by the word of God.

Ben Merold, Sermon Outlines on 1 Corinthians, ed. Sam E. Stone, Standard Sermon Starters, (Cincinnati, OH: Standard, 1995), 31–32.