Matthew Henry Commentary 1 Corinthians 10:23-33

"All things are lawful; but not all things are expedient. All things are lawful; but not all things edify. Let no man seek his own, but [each] his neighbor`s [good]. Whatsoever is sold in the shambles, eat, asking no question for conscience` sake, for the earth is the Lord`s, and the fulness thereof. If one of them that believe not biddeth you [to a feast], and ye are disposed to go; whatsoever is set before you, eat, asking no question for conscience` sake. But if any man say unto you, This hath been offered in sacrifice, eat not, for his sake that showed it, and for conscience sake: conscience, I say, not thine own, but the other`s; for why is my liberty judged by another conscience? If I partake with thankfulness, why am I evil spoken of for that for which I give thanks? Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God. Give no occasions of stumbling, either to Jews, or to Greeks, or to the church of God: 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 10:23-33 (ASV)

There were situations where Christians could eat food that had been offered to idols without sinning. For example, this was permissible when meat, originally given to a priest as part of an offering, was then sold in the public market as ordinary food. However, Christians must consider not only what is lawful but also what is beneficial and what builds up others.

Christianity certainly does not forbid ordinary acts of kindness, nor does it permit discourteous behavior toward anyone, regardless of differences in religious beliefs or practices. However, this understanding does not extend to participating in religious festivals or taking part in idolatrous worship. Following the apostle's advice, Christians should be careful not to use their freedom in a way that harms others or brings shame upon themselves.

In eating and drinking, and in everything we do, we should aim for the glory of God, seeking to please and honor Him. This is the ultimate purpose of all religion, and it guides us when specific rules are lacking. A holy, peaceable, and benevolent spirit will disarm the greatest enemies.