Introduction
A. This chapter closes the section dealing with meat offered to idols. Paul has cited the example of Christ chapter 8, his own example in chapter 9, and now points to Israel’s past history.
B. He warns them in 1Corinthians 10:12 and uses a bit of “holy sarcasm” as he calls them “wise men” in 1Corinthians 10:15.
C. While the believer has liberty to eat and drink, he must beware of at least three dangers.
The Danger of Falling into Sin, vv. 1-13
A. Israel is our example, vv. 1-4
1. They were led by the cloud of God’s glory, v. 1.
2. The waters of the Red Sea parted for them, v. 2.
3. They were supernaturally provided food and water, vv. 3-4.
4. Christ Himself accompanied them, v. 4.
B. Israel fell because of sin, vv. 5-10
1. They displeased God, and many were killed, vv. 5-6.
2. They were guilty of idolatry and engaged in pagan revelry, v. 7 and Exodus 32:6-8.
3. They were guilty of immorality and 23,000 died in one day, v. 8 and Numbers 25:1-9.
4. They were guilty of impunity and many died by snakebites, v. 9 and Numbers 21:5-6.
5. They were guilty of ingratitude by grumbling and God sent the angel of death, v. 10 and Numbers 16:41-50.
C. Israel is a warning to us today, vv. 11-13
1. God has not promised to shield us from temptation, vv. 11-12.
2. God has promised to see us through temptation, v. 13.
The Danger of Fellowshipping with Demons, vv. 14-22
A. Divine Fellowship, vv. 14-18–>the Lord’s Supper demonstrates unity among members and participation in the sacrifice of Christ.
B. Demonic Fellowship, vv. 19-22–>the same is true in pagan worship, where sacrifices are offered up to the demons of deception.
The Danger of Failing a Fellow Christian, vv. 23-33
A. What believers can do, vv. 23: Believers can eat worldly meat.
B. What believers should do, vv. 24-33: since some weaker Christians might be offended by certain actions, mature believers should:
1. Do what they do for the good of all, vv. 24-20, 32-33.
2. Do what they do for the glory of God, v. 31.