1 Corinthians 10:21-23 - Are we trying to arouse the Lord's jealousy?

10:21,22

So Paul’s argument is that it is not OK to drink the cup of demons, to have anything to do with idol worship. It is impossible to partake in both the Lord’s table and the table of demons. Even though idols are indeed nothing, having any part in idol worship practices was totally out of order. Rather than demonstrating their cleverness, those who “knew” would be arousing Christ’s jealousy. Note that this says that just as God is a jealous God, so is Jesus.

10:23

“I have the right to do anything”. This is a sentiment that is very common in our society, it seems it was so in Paul’s day as well, and is reflective of our rebellion against God. Paul raises two immediate objections. The first is “not everything is beneficial”. The attitude reflects a reluctance to think about the consequences. Just because you can do something does not mean that it is wise to do it. The second objection is similar, “not everything is constructive”. The “I have the right to do anything attitude” is usually very self-centred. All that we do has some wider effect on society or directly affects others.