1 Corinthians 10:23, All things Are Not Expedient

1 Corinthians 10:23 All things are lawful for me, but all things are not expedient: all things are lawful for me, but all things edify not.

The Apostle Paul tells us that there are some things a Christian does that is not morally wrong, but may not be profitable in the sense that it does not build up others’ faith. In this verse, he urges the Christian to consider the impact of his action on the spiritual life of others around him. If it does not build others in the faith but potentially may be a stumbling to them, he says it is “not expedient” or “not profitable” to engage in it.

The word “lawful” means “permissible.” Personally, the Christian may not feel there is any harm in the action in the light of violating God’s law, but he is advised to refrain and be restrained from such behaviour or action or activity. Be not insistent to have his right of way when your action potentially stumbles another brother in the faith. In other words, Walvoord said well, “The principle of freedom (everything is permissible; cf. 6:12) was to be regulated by love for others. Activities that are not beneficial or constructive or that do not promote the good of others (cf. 10:33) should be avoided.”

May the Lord grant His people to wisdom and grace to refrain from the unedifying actions that will hurt the spiritual growth of others. Amen.