“We know that “We all possess knowledge.” But knowledge PUFFS UP (phusioō: to swell up with pride) while LOVE BUILDS UP. Those who think they know something DO NOT YET KNOW AS THEY OUGHT TO KNOW…we can’t win God’s approval by what we eat. We don’t lose anything if we don’t eat it, and we don’t gain anything if we do. But we must be careful so that our freedom does not cause others with a weaker conscience TO STUMBLE.” (1 Corin. 8:1-2, 8-9)
What does this mean, knowledge PUFFS UP, but love EDIFIES? Both knowledge and love have an effect on our lives in that each of them make something grow. The difference between PUFFS UP and EDIFIES is striking; it is the difference between a BUBBLE and a BUILDING. Some Christians grow JUSTIN, others JUST SWELL! And unfortunately they SWELL UP WITH PRIDE, which GOD HATES, “These things the LORD hates, A proud look…” (Pro. 6:16-17) God RESISTS the proud because the proud resist God. Arrogance will not admit to sin. The heart of pride never confesses, never repents, never asks for forgiveness. Pride is the HIDDEN REEF THAT SHIPWRECKS THE SOUL.
“…you who are younger, submit yourselves to your elders. All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because, “God opposes (antitassomai: to range in battle against) the proud but shows favor to the humble.” Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may LIFT YOU UP in due time. Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you. Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. RESIST HIM (the devil), standing firm in the faith…” (1 Pet. 5:5-9)
Your Personal Pastor -Bill Stockham