| One of the greatest truths of the Christian life is the fellowship into which we enter when we accept Christ. It draws us together in the precious fact that we are all one in Christ. The outside world tries to substitute all kinds of clubs and groups. But none can replace the bond of Christian love. At the same time, this also brings great responsibility. I must remember I have brothers and sisters in Christ who may be watching what I do and even following me. What if I do something that would cause them to stumble or fall? This is what Paul is talking about, particularly in verse 9. Paul is answering a question sent to him by the Church at Corinth. It concerned meat offered to idols. Should Christians eat it? In Corinth almost all meat was offered first to a heathen god in a temple. Christians were finding this a major problem. Paul laid down a principle in verse 13 which still holds good, 'If by eating meat I make my brother to stumble, I will never eat meat again'. Our real problem today is where to draw the line? What can we do that won't be a stumbling block to someone else? The answer is simple. When I know that what I am doing is hurting my own spiritual life or hindering someone else's spiritual life, then I must stop doing that thing. Anything that takes away my appetite for the Word of God, the house of God, prayer or service for Christ, is wrong for me and will hinder my example to others. A THOUGHT FOR TODAY: If I love my brother, I will always help and never consciously hinder him. | 
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