What if your freedom, often a cherished right, held the key to a radical, kingdom-building life? Dive into this compelling discussion that unravels the profound message of 1 Corinthians 10:23-11:1, echoing insights from 1 Cor. 6:12, challenging the familiar cry, "I have the right to do anything". This episode is for anyone grappling with how to live a life that is truly beneficial and constructive in a complex world. Join us as we explore how Paul's instructions to the Corinthian believers—who lived in a "land of freedom" much like our own—guide us to prioritize the good of others, avoid causing others to stumble, and ultimately, do "it all for the glory of God".

Glossary of Terms:

• "I have the right to do anything": This was a popular slogan in ancient Corinth, reflecting a prevalent belief in ultimate personal freedom. Paul addresses this concept, not by contradicting it directly, but by highlighting its consequences.

• Beneficial: In Paul's teaching, something is beneficial if it is helpful or advantageous, especially when it contributes to the good of others and aligns with God's overarching design for the world.

• Constructive: This term refers to actions or choices that build up, edify, or contribute positively, rather than tearing down. Paul instructs believers to be constructive by seeking the good of others and by participating in building God's intended world.

• Glory of God: To do something "for the glory of God" means to live, act, or make decisions in a way that honors, exalts, and reflects God's character and purposes in the world.

• Stumble/Cause anyone to stumble: To act in a way that might lead another person into sin, doubt, or spiritual harm.

• Kingdom of God: Refers to God's reign or dominion, representing the world as God intended it to be – a world characterized by His harmony & design.

• Kingdom of Darkness: This term describes the realm or influence of evil, led by "the evil one" (Satan). It seeks to deceive & lead people away from God's design, often by triggering emotional responses and encouraging selfish pursuits.

• Conscience: An inner sense or conviction of what is right or wrong. Paul clarifies that when making decisions about actions that might be permissible (like eating meat), one should consider the conscience of "the other person," not just their own.

Bible Study Questions:

1. "I have the right to do anything." Where do you see this slogan (or its underlying sentiment) in our modern culture? How might we observe its consequences in society or in our personal lives when freedom is pursued without considering these principles?

2. Paul encourages believers to "seek the good of others" rather than their own. What are two specific, practical actions you can take this week to apply this instruction in your daily interactions with neighbors, co-workers, or community members?

3. The message emphasizes doing "it all for the glory of God" as the ultimate purpose of our actions. How does this overarching purpose transform your understanding of seemingly ordinary decisions (like using social media or choosing how to spend your free time)? What is one specific way you can align a common daily choice more directly with God's design?

4. Paul warns against causing anyone to "stumble" whether they are "Jews, Greeks, or the church of God". Reflect on a situation in your life where exercising a personal freedom might unintentionally cause someone else to stumble or misunderstand your faith. What kind of "bridling" or grace, as described, might be necessary in such circumstances?

5. The sermon highlights the call to "construct the world per God's design" (the Kingdom of God) and avoid being "fooled into building the kingdom of darkness". Considering the practical steps outlined in the source (e.g., inviting someone to church, volunteering, praying), what is one concrete step you can take this week to actively participate in building the Kingdom of God in your sphere of influence?