Rules are needed for the effective functioning of any group of people. But how do we decide what kind of rules are best? Are rules decided by the squeakiest wheel? By the ones who hold power? By their effect on the marginalized? Or by common vote? In Chapter 8, Paul now turns to respond to another of the “official” questions of the Corinthian church - what to do about rules that are understood differently amongst a diverse group of people. For Paul, the core value is love. In particular, loving others is expressed in considering the consciences of sisters and brothers who are weaker than others. Love here is restraining your freedom and knowledge so that they might not be tempted to sin.

Link to supplementary visuals in the presentation: https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1vU6rsK72AJUQG0RJwQxhaQYps3G0ODOMKoWht5E9auU/edit?usp=sharing

In a special WCF Lament service, Pastor Andrew offers us a message of mercy and hope.