23 All things are lawful, but all are not profitable; all things are lawful, but all do not edify. 24 Let no one seek his own [advantage], but that of the other. 25 Everything sold in the shambles eat, making no inquiry for conscience sake. 26 For the earth [is] the Lord's and its fulness. 27 But if any one of the unbelievers invite you, and ye are minded to go, all that is set before you eat, making no inquiry for conscience sake. 28 But if any one say to you, This is offered to holy purposes, do not eat, for his sake that pointed it out, and conscience sake; 29 but conscience, I mean, not thine own, but that of the other: for why is my liberty judged by another conscience? 30 If I partake with thanksgiving, why am I spoken evil of for what I give thanks for? 31 Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatever ye do, do all things to God's glory. 32 Give no occasion to stumbling, whether to Jews, or Greeks, or the assembly of God. 33 Even as I also please all in all things; not seeking my own profit, but that of the many, that they may be saved.
Matthew Henry's Commentary on 1 Corinthians 10:23-33
Commentary on 1 Corinthians 10:23-33
(Read 1 Corinthians 10:23-33)
There were cases wherein Christians might eat what had been offered to idols, without sin. Such as when the flesh was sold in the market as common food, for the priest to whom it had been given. But a Christian must not merely consider what is lawful, but what is expedient, and to edify others. Christianity by no means forbids the common offices of kindness, or allows uncourteous behaviour to any, however they may differ from us in religious sentiments or practices. But this is not to be understood of religious festivals, partaking in idolatrous worship. According to this advice of the apostle, Christians should take care not to use their liberty to the hurt of others, or to their own reproach. In eating and drinking, and in all we do, we should aim at the glory of God, at pleasing and honouring him. This is the great end of all religion, and directs us where express rules are wanting. A holy, peaceable, and benevolent spirit, will disarm the greatest enemies.