Picture of children's church recap from March 22, 2026 In a world that often values being right over being loving, Christians face a unique challenge. How do we handle the truth we've discovered in Christ without becoming prideful or divisive? This question isn't new—it's one the apostle Paul addressed directly when writing to the church in Corinth. What Does It Mean That "Knowledge Puffs Up, But Love Builds Up"? Paul opens his discussion in 1 Corinthians 8 with a striking statement: "'This knowledge puffs up, but love builds up'" (1 Corinthians 8:1). The Corinthian believers had gained newfound freedom through the Gospel, but some were using their knowledge as a weapon rather than a tool for building others up. The issue at hand involved food sacrificed to idols. In ancient Corinth, much of social life revolved around temples where food was offered to various gods like Apollo, Aphrodite, and Poseidon. After being sacrificed, this food was often served at social gatherings—birthdays, weddings, and other celebrations. Some Christians understood that these idols had no real power, so they felt free to eat this food. Others, particularly new converts from idol worship, struggled with participating in anything connected to their former religious practices. Why Does God Care More About Who He Knows Than What We Know? Paul makes a profound shift in verse 3: "'But if anyone loves God, he is known by God'" (1 Corinthians 8:3). This isn't just wordplay—it's a fundamental truth about our relationship with God. The question isn't simply "Do you know God?" but "Does God know you?" This echoes throughout Scripture: - "'I have known him'" - God speaking about Abraham (Genesis 18:19) - "'Before I formed you in the womb, I knew you'" - God to Jeremiah (Jeremiah 1:5) To be known by God means to be chosen, loved, and called into relationship with Him. This knowledge—God's knowledge of us—matters infinitely more than our accumulation of facts or theological understanding. How Does Jesus Embody Perfect Truth and Love? Paul doesn't just give abstract principles; he points to Jesus as the embodiment of truth. In verses 4-6, he rewrites the Jewish Shema (the daily prayer declaring God's oneness) to include Christ: "'Yet for us there is one God, the Father, from whom are all things and for whom we exist, and one Lord Jesus Christ, through whom are all things and through whom we exist'" (1 Corinthians 8:6). Jesus is the truth personified—not just information to be learned, but a person to be known and followed. He demonstrates how to handle knowledge and rights perfectly. What Did Jesus Do With His Rights and Knowledge? Philippians 2 shows us Jesus' example: "'Though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross'" (Philippians 2:6-8). Jesus had ultimate knowledge and ultimate rights as God, yet He laid them down for our sake. This is the pattern for how we should use our freedom and knowledge—not for self-advancement, but for the good of others and the glory of God. How Should Christians Handle Their Freedom in Controversial Issues? The principle Paul establishes extends far beyond food sacrificed to idols. Whether the issue is alcohol, entertainment choices, political views, or lifestyle decisions, the question remains: How can I use my freedom to build others up rather than tear them down? Paul's approach involves several key considerations: Consider the Weak Conscience : Some believers struggle with certain practices due to their background or spiritual maturity. Rather than dismissing their concerns, we should consider how our actions might affect them. Prioritize Relationships Over Rights : "'Therefore, if food makes my brother stumble, I will never eat meat, lest I make my brother stumble'" (1 Corinthians 8:13). Paul was willing to give up his freedom permanently if it would help a fellow believer. Seek Others' Good : As Paul later writes, "'Let no one seek his own good, but the good of his neighbor'" (1 Corinthians 10:24). What Questions Should Guide Our Decisions? When facing decisions about how to use our Christian freedom, several questions can guide us: Do I need more knowledge? Sometimes we need to study Scripture more deeply to understand God's heart on an issue. The goal isn't just information, but transformation. Where do I find the greatest freedom in Christ? Identify the areas where you feel most liberated by the Gospel. These are often the areas where you'll be most tempted toward pride or insensitivity toward others. Am I willing to give up my rights? This is perhaps the most challenging question. Are you willing to limit your freedom for the sake of others' spiritual growth? Does this glorify God? Paul's ultimate test: "'So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God'" (1 Corinthians 10:31). Life Application This week, identify one area where you have strong convictions or feel significant freedom in Christ. Instead of focusing on whether you're "right," ask yourself: How can I use this freedom to build others up? Consider having a conversation with someone who might see this issue differently, not to prove your point, but to understand their perspective and show Christ's love. Ask yourself these questions: - Am I more concerned with being right or being loving? - How might my actions or attitudes be affecting other believers, especially those newer in their faith? - What rights or freedoms might God be calling me to lay down for the sake of others? - Does my approach to controversial issues reflect the humility and love of Christ? Remember, the mark of a mature Christian isn't superior knowledge—it's love that builds others up. When we follow Christ's example of laying down our rights for others, we demonstrate the Gospel in powerful ways and create space for others to encounter the truth and love of Jesus.