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First, I care very little about 2 adults sinning. That happens constantly. I care a great deal about child molestation, especially when it leads to a lifetime of sin (because the kids become homosexuals after being molested.)

If anyone causes one of these little ones—those who believe in me—to stumble, it would be better for them to have a large millstone hung around their neck and to be drowned in the depths of the sea. -- Matthew 18:6

Second, the Apostle Paul tells us in 1 Corinthians 10:25-30 to not make a big deal about other peoples sins, until they brag about them. Once the brag about them, then we must stand up.

Here is a log from a chat I had with ChatGPT about this issue:

User

Where in the Bible does Paul talk about eating meat sacrificed in pagan temples?


ChatGPT

Paul discusses the topic of eating meat sacrificed to idols in pagan temples in his first letter to the Corinthians, specifically in 1 Corinthians 8 and 1 Corinthians 10.

<snip>
In 1 Corinthians 10:19-33, Paul further addresses the issue, <snip> He advises Christians to eat whatever is sold in the meat market without raising questions about its origin (1 Corinthians 10:25). However, if they are informed that the meat was offered to an idol, they should abstain from eating it out of consideration for the conscience of the person who informed them (1 Corinthians 10:28-29). <snip>


User

My pastor told me Paul makes a distinction in 1 Corinthians 10:25-30 between not arguing over small details at the meat market where the proprietors do not care about religious issues but being willing to stand up and say something if someone makes a point about it being a good thing to eat meat sacrificed to idols.


ChatGPT

Your pastor is correct in his interpretation of 1 Corinthians 10:25-30. Paul does make a distinction in this passage, addressing two different scenarios related to eating meat sacrificed to idols.

In verses 25-27, Paul advises Christians not to inquire about the origin of the meat they buy at the market or eat at someone's house. He emphasizes that the Earth and everything in it belongs to the Lord, so the food can be eaten without any concerns about its origin (1 Corinthians 10:25-26). In this case, Paul is encouraging believers not to get caught up in minor details regarding the source of the meat.

However, in verses 28-30, Paul addresses a different situation. If someone specifically points out that the meat was offered to an idol, then the believer should abstain from eating it out of consideration for the conscience of the person who informed them (1 Corinthians 10:28-29). In this context, the believer is called to make a stand and not participate in eating the meat sacrificed to idols, as it might be seen as endorsing or accepting the practice.

This distinction highlights the importance of considering the impact of one's actions on others, being sensitive to their beliefs, and avoiding anything that could be perceived as promoting or condoning idolatry.


User

I think there is a metaphor here that goes beyond meat sacrificed to idols. I will not demand everyone around me live in a Christian way or follow Biblical laws. But, if someone makes a point of saying they are righteous because they follow sinful ways, then I need to stand up and counter their argument.


ChatGPT

Yes, you can indeed extend the metaphor beyond the specific context of meat sacrificed to idols. Paul's message in 1 Corinthians 10:25-30 can be applied to various situations where believers interact with people of different beliefs or practices.

The key takeaway is the importance of being sensitive to the beliefs and practices of others without compromising one's own faith. As a believer, you can maintain a respectful and compassionate attitude towards people who may not live according to Christian values. You don't need to impose your beliefs on them or expect them to adhere to the same standards.

However, if someone explicitly promotes a sinful lifestyle and claims it to be righteous, you can stand up for your beliefs and engage in a respectful conversation, sharing your perspective based on the teachings of the Bible. The goal is not to condemn the person but to provide an alternative understanding based on your faith. In doing so, you uphold the principles of Christianity while demonstrating love, humility, and respect for others.