Definition: Wherefore, if meat make my brother to offend, I will eat no flesh while the world standeth, lest I make my brother to offend.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from 1 Corinthians 8:13. It’s a really important and thoughtful verse about boundaries and hospitality. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is about protecting your brothers and sisters from causing them harm through your actions. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “Wherefore, if meat make my brother to offend…” - This means you’re concerned that your brother might be offended by something you do. It's a worry about potential conflict or discomfort. “…I will eat no flesh while the world standeth.” – This is the key part. It suggests that if your brother is offended, you’ll stop eating meat. "The world standeth" means the whole world is in a state of being – a period of time where people are interacting and potentially causing problems. Putting it all together: This verse is essentially saying: “If my brother gets upset because of something I do, I will avoid doing that thing to protect him from getting offended.” It’s a way of prioritizing the well-being of your brothers and sisters over your own comfort or enjoyment. Why is this important? It speaks to the importance of being thoughtful about how you interact with others. It's a reminder that our actions can have consequences for those around us, and we should strive to avoid causing harm. It’s also a call for kindness and consideration – showing respect for others by setting boundaries. Important Note: This verse is from an ancient text and doesn't necessarily mean you have to stop eating meat entirely. It’s about the principle of avoiding actions that could cause harm or discomfort to others, particularly within a community. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the context of this passage in more detail?