Note 14 at 1 Cor. 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 effect others. Paul taught that we have a duty to others (Rom. 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 Jn. 5:44, p. 157). 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" (2 Tim. 3:12), someone could take Paul's statement here to such an extreme that he becomes snared by a fear of what others will think (Prov. 29:25). On the other hand, a person who ignored this obligation to a weak brother's conscience could use his liberty in such a way that many Christians under his influence would stumble and perish (v. 9-11).

Paul gives us two test 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 which are important and would defile our conscience 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 (v. 8). "The kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost" (Rom. 14:17).

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

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