Note 14 at 1Co 8:9: Paul's argument against eating food that had been sacrificed to idols was not based on any sin in the physical act, but rather, he condemned the practice because of how it could affect others. Paul taught that we have a duty to others (Ro 1:14). In evaluating the propriety of our actions, we have to take into account the effect those actions will have on others.

However, this does have to be combined with a seemingly opposing truth that we have to be true to God regardless of public opinion (see note 22 at Joh 5:44). Instead of contradicting each other, these truths balance each other. Taking either one of these truths without the equalizing effect of the other could lead to problems.

Without understanding that "all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution" (2Ti 3:12), people could take Paul's statement here to such an extreme that they become snared by a fear of what others think (Pr 29:25). On the other hand, those who ignore this obligation to a weak believer's conscience could use their liberty in such a way that many Christians under their influence would stumble and perish (1Co 8:9-11).

Paul gave us two tests to evaluate whether we should refrain from taking our liberty, because of love, or stand firm without compromise, because of conviction. First, we need to objectively analyze what the effects of doing without will be on us. There are some things that are important and would defile our consciences if we compromise, and there are other things that are optional. In this instance, Paul said that it wouldn't hurt the believers to do without this meat (1Co 8:8). "The kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost" (Ro 14:17).

Second, Paul made it clear that the effect of this action (eating meat that had been sacrificed to an idol) on the weak believer would be disastrous (1Co 8:11). Therefore, the degree of damage done to those who don't understand is certainly one criterion in evaluating our actions. There are some issues that are important and others that aren't.

Therefore, if failure to follow our convictions would defile our consciences and the effect on others is minute, then we should "stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free" (Ga 5:1). If our actions would destroy others and the issue in question is nonessential, we should honor others above ourselves.