1 Corinthians is a letter of reproof and correction in which Paul plainly and directly addresses problems that he had heard about in this church. He also answers questions they had written to him about. Apparently they did not bring up the problems in their letter because Paul heard about them from others (1:11; 5:1). Before he answers their questions he deals with the problems and gets to the root of it all (3:1-3).
There are basically 3 kinds of people:
1. The natural (2:14) – those without the Spirit
2. The spiritual (2:15-16) – those in the Spirit that also walk in the Spirit
3. The carnal (3:1-3) – those in the Spirit that walk after the flesh
Notice that Paul calls the carnal “babes in Christ." One of the identifying marks of a carnal person is spiritual immaturity. One of the ways this immaturity shows up is in the inability to judge (6:1-5). It also shows up in making self the #1 issue (8:1). On the other hand, one of the identifying marks of a spiritual person is spiritual maturity. One of the ways this maturity shows up is in the ability to judge (5:3). It also shows up in putting Christ and others before yourself (8:13). In chapter 9 Paul explains why he so often DENIED himself!
All believers have the position of adopted sons (Gal. 4:1-7). The Spirit within our hearts makes this position in Christ real to us as we grow in the faith. Children must have many regulations to guide them because they do not have the ability to make proper decisions on their own. Mature people are discerning and do not need everything spelled out for them. Compare the detailed rules of the law with the spiritual principles of Paul’s epistles.
In chapters 6-10 Paul gives key principles that will guide the believer in always making the best decision (Phil. 1:9-11). It is apparent that the church at Corinth was making poor choices. For example, there was dispute over doubtful things like eating meat offered to idols. Some thought it was sinful just to eat the meat. Others knew it was not a sin but did not care about their weaker brothers. Spirituality is to have knowledge WITH charity! Paul shows that though it is not a sin to eat that meat it may not be the best thing to do (8:8-9). It is possible to do something that in and of itself is not sinful but if it is done with the wrong attitude is becomes sinful (8:12).
1. Is it expedient? (6:12a)
Expedient - Literally, hastening; urging forward. Hence, tending to promote the object proposed; fit or suitable for the purpose; proper under the circumstances. Many things may be lawful, which are not expedient. The word expedient is similar to expedite. Will it be profitable for us on our journey in Christian growth (Phil. 3:12-14)? Anything that hinders your Christian growth needs to be laid aside, whether it is a sin or not (Heb. 12:1).
2. Can it bring me under bondage? (6:12b)
We must not mess with anything that has the potential to enslave us in the flesh. How can we serve Christ if we are serving something else (Rom. 6:12-23)?
3. Will it be a stumblingblock to others? (8:9)
What about the weaker brethren (Rom. 14:13-23)? Will it hinder the gospel (9:12, 23)?
4. Is it spiritually edifying? (10:23)
To edify is to build up. Will it help build up the new man (Acts 20:32)?
5. Does it glorify God? (10:31)
If you know the scriptures, you will know what glorifies God. Can you do it as to the Lord and in His name (Col. 3:17, 23)?
If we will honestly ask ourselves these five questions when making a decision, we will know what to do.
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