What is the meaning of 1 Corinthians 10:23? “Everything is permissible,” Paul echoes a slogan the Corinthians seemed to cherish. In Christ we are truly free: our salvation is secure, the Mosaic ceremonial code is fulfilled, and human rules cannot add to Calvary. • Galatians 5:1 reminds, “It is for freedom that Christ has set us free.” • Colossians 2:16 – 17 urges believers not to let anyone judge them over food or festivals. • Earlier, 1 Corinthians 6:12 records the same phrase, showing that Paul has already affirmed legitimate liberty. This opening line establishes that the gospel does not clamp chains on the redeemed; life in Christ begins with wide–open freedom. but not everything is beneficial Freedom is never a license to harm ourselves or others. The word “beneficial” steers us toward what advances God’s purposes. • Galatians 5:13 cautions, “do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh; rather, serve one another in love.” • Hebrews 12:1–2 calls us to lay aside every weight and run the race set before us. Questions to weigh when assessing “benefit”: – Does this choice draw me nearer to Jesus? – Does it strengthen my witness? – Does it protect my body and mind, bought at a price (1 Corinthians 6:19–20)? Liberty is precious; squandering it on what dulls spiritual appetite is shortsighted. “Everything is permissible,” Paul repeats the slogan to drive home that he is not retreating into legalism. The gospel neither adds hidden fine print nor retracts our freedom on technicalities. • Romans 14:14 acknowledges that “nothing is unclean in itself,” yet leaves room for conscience. • 1 Peter 2:16 advises living “as free men” while remaining “servants of God.” This second echo reassures believers that discipline does not annul liberty; it rightly guides liberty. but not everything is edifying “Edifying” looks outward: will my choice build up the church? • Ephesians 4:29: “Only what is helpful for building up the one in need.” • 1 Thessalonians 5:11: “Therefore encourage and build one another up.” Practical checkpoints: – Could a weaker believer stumble by following my example (1 Corinthians 8:9–13)? – Does this activity foster unity or provoke division? – Will it leave others more hopeful, more holy, more hungry for God? True maturity gladly surrenders even lawful pleasures if doing so strengthens Christ’s body. summary 1 Corinthians 10:23 balances two great truths: in Christ everything is permissible, yet the believer joyfully limits personal liberty for what is beneficial and edifying. Freedom is God’s gift; love is the governing principle. When decisions are guided by what advances personal holiness and builds up others, liberty and love walk hand in hand, and Christ is glorified. |
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