How does 1 Corinthians 8:4 affirm the existence of only one true God? Introducing the Verse “So then, about eating food sacrificed to idols: We know that an idol is nothing at all in the world, and that there is no God but One.” Why This Statement Matters • Paul moves from the practical issue of idol-meat to the foundational truth behind it. • He roots Christian liberty in an unshakable reality: only one true God exists; everything else worshiped is empty. Two Key Declarations in the Verse 1. “An idol is nothing at all in the world” • Idols possess no real divinity or power. • They are man-made images, empty of the life, glory, and authority that belong solely to God. 2. “There is no God but One” • Straightforward proclamation of monotheism. • Leaves no room for rival deities, regional gods, or spiritual forces that can compete with the Lord. Echoes Throughout Scripture • Deuteronomy 6:4 — “Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is One!” • Isaiah 44:6 — “I am the first and I am the last, and there is no God but Me.” • Isaiah 45:5 — “I am the LORD, and there is no other; there is no God but Me.” • 1 Corinthians 8:6 — “Yet for us there is but one God, the Father… and one Lord, Jesus Christ…” • 1 Timothy 2:5 — “For there is one God and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus.” • James 2:19 — “You believe that God is one. Good for you! Even the demons believe that—and shudder.” • John 17:3 — “This is eternal life: that they may know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom You have sent.” How 1 Corinthians 8:4 Affirms One True God • Unambiguous wording: “no God but One” mirrors Israel’s ancient confession and reaffirms it for the New-Covenant church. • By dismissing idols as “nothing,” Paul dismisses every alternative claim to divinity. • He underlines that every ethical choice (such as eating meat) must flow from correct theology; right living begins with right believing in the one true God. Practical Takeaways • Worship exclusively the Lord; avoid syncretism or divided loyalties. • Evaluate cultural pressures—anything that claims ultimate allegiance is a modern “idol.” • Find assurance: the single sovereign God rules history, secures salvation, and guides daily life. • Share the gospel confidently, knowing all people ultimately stand before the same Creator and Redeemer. |
    |