Nevertheless, we have not made use of this right, but we endure anything rather than put an obstacle in the way of the gospel of Christ. – 1 Corinthians 9:12
Do we have obstacles in the way of our life reflecting the gospel of Christ?
Our obstacles may be different than what Paul is referring in 1 Corinthians. In this chapter and starting in the previous, Paul has been questioned about the appropriate food a Christian should partake. This call is less about any dietary law, but about what is socially part of the culture of the day. In a region where the gospel is new, much of the food especially meat that is prevalent for consumptions comes from animals that had be slaughtered at part of ritual sacrifice to other gods. Should those who profess the One God and father of the Lord, Jesus partake of such food? Wouldn’t that hurt our witness?
Of course for those who understand and have faith, we learn that God is the One true God, and all other gods are nothing more than false idols, in this instances Paul’s argument is food is food, and it is a gift from God, so it shouldn’t matter. However, Paul understood that there is sometimes a perception that can’t be overcome among those who don’t yet believe. Therefore, the better choice is to not make someone else stumble because of their lack of understanding or faith.
This secondary argument is the reason for Paul saying ‘we endure anything rather than put an obstacle in the way of the gospel…’ When we think about the idea of integrity, being of sound Christian character, then we should strive to not feel we have to explain our way out of a situation. I’ve heard it said before; “If you have to explain, your already losing.” The idea behind that statement is that if you have to try and explain yourself out of a situation, that person to whom you are explaining already feels they have reason to question you integrity. The question of character creates an obstacle to one ability to share faith.
As a leader, I know how difficult it can be to be transparent, to share the reasons behind decisions, or to for people to trust when they don’t understand those decisions. Mistakes are made, and explaining our way out isn’t always an option. The best course of action, I’ve found, in removing obstacles is to acknowledge our choices, own our choices, and if they are brought into question ask forgiveness if those decisions have caused pain or grievance. Character or integrity is best seen not explaining our way out, but working our way through, so that obstacle do not become barriers, and we are able to reflect the kind of grace we believe is offered from God, through Christ Jesus our Lord. May we seek to remove our obstacles for the good sharing the gospel now and always.
Grace & Peace,
Sam