Today's readings are 2 Samuel 5.1-25 ( http://www.gnpcb.org/esv/search/?q=2+Sam.+5.1-25 ), 1 Corinthians 8.1-13 ( http://www.gnpcb.org/esv/search/?q=1+Cor.+8.1-13 ), and Psalm 18 ( http://www.gnpcb.org/esv/search/?q=Ps.+18 ).
Today I have a question. Maybe a reader can answer it. 1 Corinthians 8.1-13 talks about eating food offered to idols and how we should desire to protect the conscience of our weaker brother. Jesus seems to treat the Pharisees and the weak quite differently. He confronts some people with their failings, their lack of consistency, and their unbiblical demands. He rattles their cages and does it very boldly. But when confronted with someone who is weak in faith and understanding Jesus will address the same kind of failings, lack of consistency, and unbiblical demands by showing care and compassion, bringing healing encouragement.
One would assume we are to do likewise. But how do we tell the difference between a Pharisee and a weaker brother? How do we know when someone's desire to abstain, for instance, from drinking alcohol, is a matter of Pharisaic pride which should be attacked? How do we know if it is not rather a weaker brother who will be made to stumble if we present a biblical view?
Genuine question. I've been publicizing this blog for a while and must have three or four readers by now. Time to speak!
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