New Testament
1 Corinthians 10:28
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
But if someone tells you, "This is offered in sacrifice to idols," then don't eat it for the sake of the person who told you and for conscience's sake. For the earth is the Lord's, and everything in it.
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But if any man say unto you, This is offered in sacrifice unto idols, eat not for his sake that shewed it, and for conscience sake: for the earth is the Lord’s, and the fulness thereof:
What 1 Corinthians 10:28 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Paul addresses a situation where food has been sacrificed to idols. If someone informs you that the food you are about to eat has been offered to idols, it’s best not to eat it. This is not just about the food itself, but about being considerate of the person who told you. Their conscience may be troubled by your actions, and you want to respect that. Remember, everything in the world belongs to God, including the food. However, your actions can impact others, so it’s important to act in love and consideration. By choosing not to eat, you show that you care about their feelings and beliefs. This principle encourages us to think about how our choices affect those around us, especially in matters of faith and conscience. It’s a reminder that our freedom should not come at the expense of someone else's peace of mind or spiritual journey. Ultimately, it’s about living in harmony with others while recognizing God’s ownership of all things and prioritizing love over personal rights.
How to apply 1 Corinthians 10:28 to your life
When faced with choices that may affect others, consider their feelings and beliefs. Sometimes, it’s better to sacrifice your own preferences for the sake of someone else's peace. This approach fosters understanding and strengthens relationships, reflecting love in action. Always prioritize compassion over personal freedom in your decisions. Be mindful of how your actions impact others around you, especially in sensitive situations.
Curated for this public verse page. 1 Corinthians Summary
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At a Glance — the Book of 1 Corinthians
- Author
- Paul the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 55
- Genre
- Letter (epistle)
- Original Audience
- The church in Corinth
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does 1 Corinthians 10:28 mean?
1 Corinthians 10:28 advises believers to refrain from eating food offered to idols if someone points it out. This is to respect the conscience of the person who informed you, emphasizing the importance of love and consideration in our actions.
What is the meaning of conscience in 1 Corinthians 10:28?
In 1 Corinthians 10:28, conscience refers to the inner sense of right and wrong that guides a person's decisions. The verse highlights the need to be mindful of how our choices can affect others' feelings and beliefs.
Why should I not eat food offered to idols according to 1 Corinthians 10:28?
You should not eat food offered to idols if someone tells you it has been sacrificed to idols, as a way to respect their conscience and beliefs. This shows love and consideration for others, prioritizing their peace of mind.
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