Paul continued to answer their questions. They were seeking guidance about what foods were approved for them to eat. Paul said, "...'all of us have knowledge', as they say. Such knowledge, however, puffs a person up with pride; but love builds up." (8:1) Paul instructed them that food won't bring them closer or take us away from God. Be sensitive around weaker people and don't expose them deliberately to things they cannot withstand.
Paul stated that he had the right to earn a living from his work as an apostle. He said he had the same right as the other apostles to bring his wife along on his preaching tours. But Paul had made a different choice regarding asking for money, as well as having a wife. Paul made himself everyone's slave for the gospel.
Paul reminded the people of their ancestors when they were guided by Moses. Paul admonished the people to take it as a cautionary example of what not to do. Those people disobeyed God again and again and wouldn't do His will. He told them not to test God or complain. Paul encouraged them to stand firm and not get too comfortable. "Every test that you have experienced is the kind that normally comes to people. But God keeps his promise, and he will not allow you to be tested beyond your power to remain firm; at the time you are put to the test, he will give you the strength to endure it, and so provide you with a way out." (10:13) Many people use this scripture as the basis for their comment, 'God never gives us more than we can bear.' Paul told them to stay away from idols. For the Lord's Supper, they share the cup containing the blood of Christ, when they eat the body or bread they are sharing the loaf. This is done just as they are one body as the body of Christ. Whatever you do, do it for God's glory. Don't cause trouble and consider the good of others. Imitate Christ.
Paul said that Christ is supreme over every man, and a husband is supreme over his wife, and God is supreme over Christ. Men were't supposed to cover their heads and women were. Nowadays it depends on the congregation. Paul said that the man reflects the glory of God and the woman reflects the glory of man, since woman was created from man. Also, man wasn't created for woman, but woman was created for man. Paul then points out that just as women depend on men, men can't be born without women. Then Paul said to judge for yourself whether a woman should cover her head or not. Paul discusses hair length. Paul couldn't praise them for their worship meetings because they did more harm than good. They were eating their own food in church (like a picnic) and letting some go hungry. Paul instructed them again in the proper use of the Lord's Supper. First we are to examine ourselves, then partake. Paul advised them to eat meals at home.
No one can say "Jesus is Lord" unless he is guided by the Holy Spirit. One Spirit gives many different kinds of spiritual gifts. The Spirit's presence is shown in some way in everyone. There are many different gifts: wisdom, knowledge, faith, healing power, working miracles, speaking God's message, discernment, languages, and interpretation. As he wishes, the Spirit gives different gifts to people.
Tomorrow read 1Corinthians 12:12-15:28
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