Just Because You Can Under Grace, Doesn’t Mean You Should

In the intricate dance between Christian liberty and responsibility, 1 Corinthians 10:23-33 serves as a crucial guide for believers navigating life under grace. It elucidates that while we may enjoy freedom from the law and its condemnation, our actions still matter and are capable of either hindering or edifying those around us.

Expedient and Edifying Things

“[23] All things are lawful for me, but all things are not expedient: all things are lawful for me, but all things edify not. [24] Let no man seek his own, but every man another's wealth.” – 1 Corinthians 10:23-24 

The declaration that "all things are lawful for me, but all things are not expedient" (1 Corinthians 10:23) captures the essence of Christian discernment. Liberty under grace is not a blanket permission to act without consideration. Instead, it comes with an obligation to pursue what is beneficial and constructive to both ourselves and others (Romans 6:14-18). The truly expedient actions are those grounded in truth, motivated by love, and demonstrated through good works, which the Bible upholds as profitable for all (1 Timothy 4:8, 2 Timothy 3:16, Titus 3:8).

Paul urges believers not to seek their own advantage but to consider the well-being of others. This selfless mindset is at the heart of edifying the church — it's about seeking the spiritual prosperity of our brothers and sisters in Christ (Romans 14:19, Philippians 2:4).

For Conscience Sake

“[25] Whatsoever is sold in the shambles, that eat, asking no question for conscience sake: [26] For the earth is the Lord's, and the fulness thereof. [27] If any of them that believe not bid you to a feast, and ye be disposed to go; whatsoever is set before you, eat, asking no question for conscience sake. [28] But if any man say unto you, This is offered in sacrifice unto idols, eat not for his sake that shewed it, and for conscience sake: for the earth is the Lord's, and the fulness thereof: [29] Conscience, I say, not thine own, but of the other: for why is my liberty judged of another man's conscience? [30] For if I by grace be a partaker, why am I evil spoken of for that for which I give thanks?” – 1 Corinthians 10:25-30

In the matter of eating food sold in the market or accepting a meal from an unbeliever, Paul encourages believers to partake without scruple, asserting that "the earth is the Lord’s, and the fulness thereof" (1 Corinthians 10:25-26). The underlying principle is that, since all creation belongs to God, there is no inherent spiritual contamination in the food.

However, if it's pointed out that the food is idol-sacrificed, believers are to abstain, not for their own conscience, but for the conscience of the other person (1 Corinthians 10:28). It is a call to consider others whose understanding may not yet fully grasp the breadth of Christian liberty (Romans 14:13-21, 1 Thessalonians 5:22). This consideration extends to ensuring that our freedom does not become a stumbling block to others but instead serves to edify them in love (Galatians 5:13).

Doing All for God’s Glory 

“[31] Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God. [32] Give none offence, neither to the Jews, nor to the Gentiles, nor to the church of God: [33] Even as I please all men in all things, not seeking mine own profit, but the profit of many, that they may be saved.” – 1 Corinthians 10:31-33

Ultimately, whatever we do should be done for the glory of God (1 Corinthians 10:31). This means that our actions and decisions should align with God's truth, express His love, and lead to His glorification. Just because you can do something under God’s grace doesn’t mean you should: if your conduct and behavior prevent other’s growth, that’s a huge problem (1 Corinthians 8:9-13, 2 Corinthians 6:1-3).

Paul models this principle by not seeking his own profit but the profit of many (1 Corinthians 10:33). He refrained from using his freedom in Christ to please himself but rather used it to benefit others spiritually, aiming for their salvation and edification (Romans 15:1-2). This reflects a balanced approach to being all things to all people — it's not about people-pleasing in the worldly sense but about accommodating others within the parameters of truth for their spiritual benefit (1 Corinthians 9:22, Galatians 1:10).

Conclusion

The lessons from 1 Corinthians 10:23-33 are clear: under grace, our actions are not just about lawful versus unlawful, but about what is helpful and edifying. As believers, we are to exercise our freedom with a view toward serving others and glorifying God, showing that while we can do many things under grace, we should always consider whether we should.