1 Corinthians Week 7
Notes for the September 20, 2026 message:
Scriptures used: 1 Corinthians 8:1, 9-13; 9:19-27; 10:6-13, 16-17, 23-24, 31-33; 11:23-29; Colossians 3:5
Scriptures referenced: 1 Corinthians 8-10; Acts 15:19
Growing in Spiritual Maturity
As we grow, we move from simply following rules to learning how to make wise decisions.
God’s truth is clear, but there are areas in life where we need the Holy Spirit to guide us.
Spiritual maturity is seen in how faithfully we apply God’s truth when there isn’t always a simple answer.
“What Is the Wise Thing to Do?”
The question isn’t simply, “What am I free to do?” A better question is, “What is the loving, wise, and Christ-honoring thing to do?”
Just because we can do something doesn’t always mean we should.
Our freedom should never become more important than another person’s spiritual well-being.
Let Love Govern Your Knowledge
Knowledge can become a source of pride.
Love should govern our knowledge and our freedom.
We should be careful that our choices don’t become a stumbling block for someone else.
Watch for Idols in Your Life
An idol is anything we give more importance to than our relationship with God.
When something becomes more valuable to us than it should be, we may become willing to do whatever it takes to obtain it.
If you peel back the layers of sin, you may find an idol underneath it.
Use Your Freedom for God’s Glory
Our ultimate goal isn’t simply to protect our rights or preferences. Whatever we do should be done for the glory of God.
Sometimes following Christ means surrendering our preferences for the sake of the Kingdom.
The gospel is more important than everyone seeing every situation exactly the way we see it.
Live to Reach Others
We aren’t called to compromise biblical truth, but we are called to sacrifice personal preferences for the sake of others.
Remember What the Lord’s Supper Represents
Communion is a proclamation of the gospel. It reminds us that our identity is found in Christ.
The Lord’s Supper was meant to demonstrate unity, grace, reconciliation, and our shared relationship with Jesus.
The Bottom Line
Am I more concerned with what I can do in my spiritual freedom or what I can do for God’s kingdom?
Personal Application & Reflection
Have I fully surrendered to the Lordship of Jesus?
Is there any sin I need to repent of?
Is there anyone I need to forgive or ask forgiveness from?
Am I contributing to division within the body of Christ?
Is there an idol in my life—something I value more than my relationship with God?
Am I putting my preferences first, or am I putting the Kingdom first?
Is the goal of my life to honor God and lead others to Christ?
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