1 Now as touching things offered unto idols, we know that we all have knowledge. Knowledge puffeth up, but charity edifieth. 2 And if any man think that he knoweth any thing, he knoweth
nothing yet as he ought to know.
3 But if any man love God, the same is
known of him.
4 As concerning therefore the eating of those things that are
offered in sacrifice unto idols, we know that an idol is nothing in the
world, and that there is none other God but one. 5 For though there be
that are called gods, whether in heaven or in earth, (as there be gods
many, and lords many,)
6 But to us there is but one God, the Father, of
whom are all things, and we in him; and one Lord Jesus Christ, by whom
are all things, and we by him.
7 Howbeit there is not in every man
that knowledge: for some with conscience of the idol unto this hour eat
it as a thing offered unto an idol; and their conscience being weak is
defiled. 8 But meat commendeth us not to God: for neither, if we eat, are
we the better; neither, if we eat not, are we the worse.
9 But take
heed lest by any means this liberty of yours become a stumblingblock to
them that are weak. 10 For if any man see thee which hast knowledge sit
at meat in the idol's temple, shall not the conscience of him which is
weak be emboldened to eat those things which are offered to idols; 11
And through thy knowledge shall the weak brother perish, for whom Christ
died? 12 But when ye sin so against the brethren, and wound their weak
conscience, ye sin against Christ.
13 Wherefore, if meat make my brother to offend, I will eat no flesh while the world standeth, lest I make my brother to offend.