Like the last chapter, this one begins now about food sacrificed to idols - signaling once again that Paul is tackling another issue the church at Corinth has asked him about. Here is an outline of Paul's teachings in this chapter:
v. 1-3 It's noteworthy that Paul says, "about food sacrificed to idols" but begins talking about knowledge and love. Knowledge puffs up, love builds up.
v. 4-6 Paul points out what should be well known: we know that idols are nothing. Focusing first on the knowledge approach, he demonstrates that we should recognize as followers of Christ that idols are not really gods--they're only inanimate objects people treat as if they're gods. Note the words so called gods.
v. 7-8 He turns his attention to love, now. Notice the word but that starts this section, But no everyone knows this. That realization--that not everyone knows this--should mitigate the application of our liberties. Notice also that Paul says some people are still so accustomed to idols. He's suggesting that for some, their prior experience has a lingering effect that can easily become a conscience issue. Verse 8 is a key--whether you eat or refrain, you're not more or less spiritual than anyone else.
v. 9-13 Love should trump knowledge. Being loving is always more important than being right. When you sin against your brothers in this way, you sin against Christ. Let there be no misunderstanding!
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