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Writer's pictureJeff Ross

Knowledge Puffs Up, But Love Builds Up

(The following is the July 17 devotional from my Next Step Devotions book. Before reading it, I suggest you read 1 Corinthians 8 and pay close attention to verses 1-13.)


Paul wrote, “Knowledge puffs up, but love builds up” (v. 1). He said this regarding attitudes toward eating food sacrificed to idols – a part of Corinthian culture not likely to be a modern concern for many. The rest of the chapter includes guidance related to avoiding actions that may cause a crisis of faith in weaker believers. He advises mature believers not to focus on personal rights as understood from their better knowledge of right and wrong. Instead, they should love Christian brothers and sisters – especially those weaker in the faith – and act in ways that help others grow.


It is also possible to demonstrate puffed-up arrogance after gaining limited knowledge of a subject. Imagine that someone completes an introductory psychology course that addresses psychological conditions, behaviors, and mental diagnoses. What may happen when that student returns home and interacts with family and friends with this new knowledge? The person may quickly (and wrongly) analyze everyone else, sharing those analyses with others if their knowledge puffs them up enough. Those who practice professionally have years of study, advanced degrees, and experience. Still, the person who completes one course may have such puffed-up confidence in their knowledge that they use it insensitively.


As we grow in our biblical knowledge and understanding of right and wrong, we must beware of focusing on the knowledge we gain to the detriment of using that knowledge in a Christlike, loving manner. Paul was willing to sacrifice some rights to focus on building up the body of Christ. We should do the same.


Next Step:

Can you recall when you or someone else insisted on demonstrating puffed-up knowledge more than loving and helping others? In what situations is that a danger or temptation for you?

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