1Now concerning things sacrificed to idols : We know that we all have knowledge . Knowledge puffeth up , but love edifieth . 2If any man thinketh that he knoweth anything , he knoweth not yet as he ought to know ; 3but if any man loveth God , the same is known by him .
The Reality of Idols
4Concerning therefore the eating of things sacrificed to idols , we know that no idol is anything in the world , and that there is no God but one . 5For though there be that are called gods , whether in heaven or on earth ; as there are gods many , and lords many ; 6yet to us there is one God , the Father , of whom are all things , and we unto him ; and one Lord , Jesus Christ , through whom are all things , and we through him .
The Principle of Love in Action
7Howbeit there is not in all men that knowledge : but some , being used until now to the idol , eat as of a thing sacrificed to an idol ; and their conscience being weak is defiled . 8But food will not commend us to God : neither , if we eat not , are we the worse ; nor , if we eat , are we the better . 9But take heed lest by any means this liberty of yours become a stumblingblock to the weak. 10For if a man see thee who hast knowledge sitting at meat in an idol ’ s temple , will not his conscience , if he is weak, be emboldened to eat things sacrificed to idols ? 11For through thy knowledge he that is weak perisheth, the brother for whose sake Christ died . 12And thus , sinning against the brethren , and wounding their conscience when it is weak, ye sin against Christ . 13Wherefore , if meat causeth my brother to stumble , I will eat no flesh for evermore, that I cause not my brother to stumble .