Some Corinthian believers had no qualms about eating food that had been offered to idols, and Paul confirmed that they had every right to do so. But in the process, they were placing a stumblingblock in front of weaker brethren, whose consciences were being defiled by engaging in behavior they believed to be wrong. Paul encouraged the Corinthians, therefore, to be willing to forgo certain permissible behaviors, if they might have the unintended consequence of causing a weaker brother to stumble. Paul illustrates the principle by pointing out that although as an apostle, he had every right to be supported by the congregations to which he ministered, he chose to not assert that right, rather than give someone the occasion to think that he may be in the ministry for personal gain. Although Paul chose to be the exception to the rule, here we see the principle confirmed: "...they who preach the gospel should live from the gospel." We are also reminded by the fact that Paul had to defend his apostleship even to those he personally pointed to Christ, that if Satan can foment dissent even against one as gifted as Paul, he can do so in any church. We see here, thirdly, a noble sacrifice. Paul spent his days forming animal skins into tents, when he could have been studying or preaching or teaching. This because he was so zealous for the gospel. Finally, we consider what the gospel is not, quoting an article from a Lutheran pastor's wife that refers to her infant grandson, through "the miracle of baptism," being "forgiven, delivered from death and the devil, and given everlasting life." Is this the gospel---SALVATION BY SPRINKLING, THE JUST SHALL LIVE BY BAPTISM?
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Born and raised in Baltimore MD, then moving to Florida in his youth, Russ came to faith in Christ as a third year college student through the testimony of his brother Doug. Russ transferred from the University of Florida to Shelton College which is affiliated with the Bible...
