Scripture - 1 Corinthians 8:1-3 Now concerning things offered to idols: We know that we all have knowledge. Knowledge puffs up, but love edifies. And if anyone thinks that he knows anything, he knows nothing yet as he ought to know. But if anyone loves God, this one is known by Him.
Observation – Paul addresses a common problem in that day that addresses a common principle in this day… when it comes to Christian liberty, it’s not my knowledge that rules the day and helps me ultimately make MY decisions; it’s the Spirit of God and my love for Him that directs my steps so that edification both in my life and the lives of those I relate with, can be built up.
The temptation is always to have knowledge so that we can feel superior to, or relate with others from a position of authority rather than to serve out of a heart of love for God and being a minister of His love to others.
It’s not that knowledge is bad; it’s that knowledge without love doesn’t accomplish God’s purpose. Paul relates this principle also in 2 Corinthians 13:10 Therefore I write these things being absent, lest being present I should use sharpness, according to the authority which the Lord has given me for edification and not for destruction. Paul recognizes that his authority and his purpose is to build up not to tear down and I believe that is what the point of our actions are supposed to be; to always seek, in love, to build up others and to be an example that builds up.
Application – My freedom in some areas of my faith walk can sometimes cause conflict for others in their walk of faith. I need to be careful that my knowledge doesn’t cause me to be puffed up with pride but instead to be motivated to serve and build others up with a balance of love.
I need that! Lately, because of how God has been leading me, I have gotten frustrated with others (especially fellow pastors and leaders) with my perception of where they are lacking. This is wrong. The knowledge I have must be tempered and/or balanced with love so that I do not give place to an air/error (both words are applicable here) of superiority but instead continue to contend for the building up of the body of Christ in love.
I’m called to serve… not lord over anyone… in thoughts, words, or actions. This does not mean that I cannot correct or be corrected, but that my motive must be love, not my ideas or delusions of superior knowledge.
Prayer – Father, this is a needed word for me today; to understand that You do give instruction and increase me in knowledge as I seek You and read Your word. You do that out of Your love for me, not to show me how miserably low I am. Forgive me for treating others with contempt instead of seeking how You want me to serve and to lovingly encourage and build up my brothers and sisters. I realize that while knowledge increases, my need for Your love in my heart must also increase. To do otherwise is to allow my flesh to seek the glory and Your word says that “No flesh should glory in Your presence.”
Restore a right heart and a renewed mind to do Your will with the knowledge and love You impart.
