1 Corinthians – Chapter 8

New Testament13 Verses

1Now concerning those things that are sacrificed to idols: we know we all have knowledge. Knowledge puffeth up: but charity edifieth.

2And if any man think that he knoweth any thing, he hath not yet known as he ought to know.

3But if any man love God, the same is known by him.

4But as for the meats that are sacrificed to idols, we know that an idol is nothing in the world and that there is no God but one.

5For although there be that are called gods, either in heaven or on earth (for there be gods many and lords many):

6Yet to us there is but one God, the Father, of whom are all things, and we unto him: and one Lord Jesus Christ, by whom are all things, and we by him.

7But there is not knowledge in every one. For some until this present, with conscience of the idol, eat as a thing sacrificed to an idol: and their conscience, being weak, is defiled.

8But meat doth not commend us to God. For neither, if we eat, shall we have the more: nor, if we eat not, shall we have the less.

9But take heed lest perhaps this your liberty become a stumblingblock to the weak.

10For if a man see him that hath knowledge sit at meat in the idol's temple, shall not his conscience, being weak, be emboldened to eat those things which are sacrificed to idols?

11And through thy knowledge shall the weak brother perish, for whom Christ hath died?

12Now when you sin thus against the brethren and wound their weak conscience, you sin against Christ.

13Wherefore, if meat scandalize my brother, I will never eat flesh, lest I should scandalize my brother.

Reflection for Today

As you read 1 Corinthians Chapter 8, the Catholic Church invites you to encounter God's living Word through the lens of Sacred Tradition. The Catechism teaches that Scripture must be read "within the living Tradition of the whole Church" (CIC 113). The same Holy Spirit who inspired these words continues to guide the Church in understanding them today.

In Catholic theology, every passage of Scripture points ultimately to Christ and finds its fullest meaning in the Church's sacramental life. The Magisterium—the teaching authority of the Pope and bishops—guides the faithful in authentic interpretation. As you meditate on these verses, consider how the Church Fathers and saints have understood them.

Through lectio divina—the ancient Catholic practice of prayerful reading—allow these words to transform your mind and heart, drawing you deeper into communion with Christ and His Church. Ask the Holy Spirit to illuminate these verses and show you how they call you to deeper faith, hope, and love.

💡Catholic Reflection • Church Teachings

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