August 21, 2011
Passage:  1 Corinthians 8:1-13
Speaker:  Bill Knepper
Main Point:  Learn to balance freedom with love.

I. Knowledge is powerful but can be dangerous.  (1-3)
         A. Knowledge sets us free from superstition.
         B. But knowledge can also lead to pride. 
         C. The goal of knowledge is to love God.

II. Knowledge guides us in doubtful things.  (4-6)
         A. Idols are nothing.
         B. We believe in one God—the Father.
         C. We believe in one Lord—Jesus Christ.

III. Knowledge must be combined with love.  (7-13)
            A. Some have a weak conscience.
                        1.  They still fear their old life.  (7)
                        2.  This is fear speaking not fact.  (8)
            B. Therefore, don’t be a stumbling block.
                        1.  You exercise your freedom in knowledge. (9)
                        2.  Another who is weak observes you.  (10)
                        3.  The weaker one then copies you.  (11)
                        4.  But the weaker one is full of doubt.  (12)  (Romans 14:23)
            C. A legalist is not a weaker brother.