Taboo or Not Taboo? Navigating the Grey Areas of Christian Living
In 1 Corinthians 8, Paul addresses a very real tension Christians still face today: how do we live faithfully for Jesus in a world full of cultural complexities and grey areas?
Back then, it was meat sacrificed to idols—today it might be tattoos, alcohol, music choices, or even how we educate our kids. The Bible gives us clear commands about right and wrong—murder, lying, adultery, etc. But what about when Scripture is silent? How do we discern what’s acceptable?
Paul helps us in 1 Corinthians 8, and applying these principles we are aided to ask four questions:
What does the Bible say?
This is always our starting point. If God’s Word forbids it, we abstain. If it permits it, we still need to ask more.What does my conscience say?
God has given each of us a conscience—like a spiritual rudder. If something causes inner conviction, even if it’s not universally sinful, it might not be right for you.What does my weakness require?
We’re all strong in some areas and weak in others. Know your limits. Avoid situations that tempt or stumble you.How does this impact others?
Freedom in Christ is never an excuse to harm or stumble others. Out of love, we might lay aside freedoms to protect or care for someone else’s spiritual journey.
Jesus prayed we’d be in the world, but not of it. So we walk a line—not isolating in legalism or blending into compromise. We represent Christ with both grace and truth.
So, taboo or not taboo? That depends. But love, humility, and Scripture should always guide the way.