Articles
When We Differ
First-century Christians were divided about whether to eat meat. Their debate had little to do with the health benefits of being a vegan. It was a matter of principle, a complex issue rooted in religious practices.
Jewish Practice
The Law of Moses divided animals into clean and unclean categories (Leviticus 11). Only the former could be eaten. Even though Jesus declared all foods clean (Mark 7:19), some were evidently not so sure (Romans 14:14). It is easy to understand how a Jew who had grown up observing such distinctions had a hard time now dismissing them (e.g., Acts 10:14).
Gentile Practice
Among the Gentiles, the meat they consumed had often been first sacrificed to a god. It was common for worshipers to give a feast with the remains of a sacrificial animal, especially on special occasions. These feasts may have taken place in that person’s home or perhaps in the very temple of the god. Additionally, there were many public offerings. The leftover meat from those sacrifices was sold in open markets. Two questions arose here for Christians: the propriety of attending such feasts, and the rightness of eating such meat in any setting.
Applications
It is easy to understand how Christians reached different conclusions about what to do. Some reasoned that the Law was no longer in effect, and that since an idol is nothing, meat sacrificed to the idol is nothing; therefore, they ate meat with no qualms. Some limited themselves to only certain meats. Some, in view of the uncertainties involved, evidently thought it best to just leave off meat altogether.
The Apostle Paul addressed this issue in Romans 14-15 and 1 Corinthians 8-10, among other places. In doing so, he placed strong emphasis on the importance of brethren remaining unified. He warned the eaters not to look with contempt on those who did not eat, and the non-eaters not to condemn the eaters for doing what God approved (Romans 14:3). He cautioned that no one should put a stumbling-block in another’s path (v. 13). He urged, “So then we pursue the things which make for peace and the building up of one another” (v. 19). He extensively pointed to his own example of willingness to forgo his “rights” if doing so might benefit others or the cause of Christ (1 Corinthians 8:13–9:23). He also bluntly warned of the danger of starting down a road that leads away from Christ (10:1ff).
In light of all this, what do you suppose Paul would write to brethren in our day who have differing views and practices regarding COVID safety precautions and worship? Think about it.
