Note 16 at Ro 14:21: A casual reading of Paul's instructions here might leave people with the impression that Paul was only suggesting that we not offend the weak brethren in this area. However, this is not the case.

The Jerusalem church had already issued a command to the Gentile Christians that they abstain from meat that had been offered to idols (Ac 15:20 and 28-29). Paul agreed with this mandate and became one of the messengers who delivered this decree to the churches (Ac 15:25 and 30).

Paul also commented on this same subject in 1Co 8 and 10: "But when ye sin so against the brethren, and wound their weak conscience, ye sin against Christ" (1Co 8:12). That doesn't sound optional. He also gave a direct command in 1Co 10:28 not to eat meat sacrificed to idols, for the sake of the weak brethren.

However, the greatest proofs that this abstinence from meat offered to idols was not optional are the comments of Jesus Himself. In Re 2:14 and 20, the Lord rebuked two churches for allowing individuals to teach in those churches that the people could eat meats sacrificed to idols.

Therefore, even though these scriptures do explain that the actual eating of meats sacrificed to idols is not wrong in itself, it does not give believers the right to indulge. They are to abstain strictly because of the effect their actions would have upon the weaker Christians' consciences.