A STUMBLING BLOCK? by Ray Eddy

Paul admonishes the Christians in Corinth not to let their liberty become a stumbling block to other Christians who were immature in their faith. The occasion of their liberty had to do with eating meat that had been offered to idols. Those who were weak were convinced that to do so was a sin, an affront to God.

The obvious point here is that our actions, no matter how innocent can become a ‘stumbling block’ to others. In 1 Corinthians 8:9 Paul says: “But beware less somehow this liberty of yours becomes a stumbling block to those who are weak.”

The word from which ‘stumbling block’ is translated was also the word that was used for the ‘bait-stick’ which was placed in an animal trap. The purpose of the bait-stick was to entice the unwary animal into the trap.

Those who have come to the faith with a teaching of legalism (a strong emphasis on not doing certain things which most Christians find unrestrictive) are often enticed by the actions of other Christians. They then begin to do those things, but with a deep sense of guilt. Until they become strong in the faith and realize the foolishness of legalism, their actions can become a ‘bait-stick’, a stumbling block.

Paul tells us in verse 1 of this chapter that knowledge “puffs-up,” but we should use our knowledge through love to edify others. Read verses 1-13 and do not allow your liberty to become a stumbling block.

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