John Calvin Commentary 1 Corinthians 10:33

John Calvin Commentary

1 Corinthians 10:33

1509–1564
Protestant
John Calvin
John Calvin

John Calvin Commentary

1 Corinthians 10:33

1509–1564
Protestant
SCRIPTURE

"even as I also please all men in all things, not seeking mine own profit, but the [profit] of the many, that they may be saved." — 1 Corinthians 10:33 (ASV)

Even as I please all men in all this, as he speaks in a general way and without exception, some mistakenly extend this to things that are unlawful and contrary to the word of the Lord — as if it were permissible, for the sake of our neighbor, to venture further than the Lord permits us. It is, however, quite certain that Paul accommodated himself to people only in things indifferent and in things lawful in themselves. Furthermore, the end must be carefully observed — that they may be saved. Therefore, what is opposed to their salvation should not be conceded to them; instead, we must use prudence, and prudence of a spiritual kind.