The Danger of Knowledge

 1 Corinthians 8:1-3: Now about food sacrificed to idols: We know that “We all possess knowledge.” But knowledge puffs up while love builds up. 2 Those who think they know something do not yet know as they ought to know. 3 But whoever loves God is known by God.

No one likes a know-it-all. We all have that one person in our lives that just ahs to always be right, or has to flaunt their knowledge. I'll admit, I can be guilty of this sometimes, especially if it's an area that I am very knowledgeable in, such as music or certain aspects of theology.

Scripture warns against this kind  of attitude. 

I was originally going to just write about 1 Corinthians 8:1, but, upon further reflection, I realized that the context of this passage was especially important. Here, Paul is referring to whether or not it would be okay for a Christian to eat meat that had been sacrificed to idols. This was a big issue within the Corinthian church and was a crucial point Paul wanted to make as he opened a section on Christian liberty-- how do we enjoy our freedom in Christ while still being pleasing fragrances to God.

I recently had a similar discussion on Facebook. I'm a big time metal head but it's no secret that many heavy metal bands (especially the more extreme genres, which I am a fan of) can often have lyrics that are blasphemous, satanic and anti-Christian. This is the question that I posted:

"Romans 11:36:  “For from him and through him and to him are all things. To him be glory forever. Amen.”

This verse struck me today when I was thinking about, of all things, bands with overtly Satanic lyrics. God invented music. There would be no music without God, so, I got to thinking, if a band or artist makes music, that music by its nature glorifies God, even if the lyrics don’t. By making music, you are acknowledging the creation and the glory of God.

I’m not condoning or condemning those that listen to bands with Satanic or blasphemous lyrics, but what do ya’ll think of the idea that all music glorifies God, even if the lyrics don’t?"

The results of the discussion were mixed, and I imagine that the meat issue in Corinth was mixed as well. Essentially, Paul says in verse 13: ""Therefore, if food makes my brother stumble, I will never eat meat again, lest I cause my brother to stumble." Basically, the argument is laid to rest. Your liberty as a Christian only extends as far as how your actions are received by your brothers and sisters in Christ. If you want to drink a beer, drink a beer. But if you're spending time with a brother or sister that has struggles with alcohol, don't drink your beer. Your liberty is not more important than the spiritual well being of your brother or system.

So where does knowledge come in? 

In this particular verse, Paul is again referring to Christian liberty, noting that many of those ins Christ did not/do not have knowledge of their liberty in Christ. These believers were using taboos and legalism instead of liberty. There is no love in legalism, only haughtiness. Love is most important. This scripture says that love edifies. Love builds up. Operating with a knowledge of Christian liberty allows you to love your brothers and sisters who may not be on the same spiritual level as you. They may have different experiences, different upbringings and even different values. 

You can have all of the theological knowledge in the world. You can have the entire Bible memorized. You can have a deep understanding of Jesus and His word... but, if you lack love, you're a just a clanging symbol (1 Corinthians 13:1).

It's good to pursue knowledge of Scripture and to study theology.... but don't forget that knowledge without love can lead to arrogance and pride, which does not please the Lord.