1 Corinthians 8:4, The Sin of Idolatry

1 Corinthians 8:4 As concerning therefore the eating of those things that are offered in sacrifice unto idols, we know that an idol is nothing in the world, and that there is none other God but one.

The root of idolatry is covetousness (Col. 3:5). Man’s inordinate desire for material prosperity. Fallen men will not seek God who is the true Supplier of their needs. They seek the concoction of a god that can satisfy their lust for gain. The Israelites in the wilderness built a golden calf because it symbolises prosperity. The calf tills the ground and that helps bring the harvest. The golden calf therefore is worshipped so that it may provide them with good harvest.

Food is offered to an idol so that men may receive in return a good fortune for themselves. The eating of food offered to idols therefore amounts to such worship. A simple logic that the new believers understood. The believers have been delivered from the sin of idolatry and therefore must not be partaker even the appearance of evil.

1 Thessalonians 5:22 Abstain from all appearance of evil. 

May God help His people worship the One living and true God! Amen.