1 Corinthians 10:23
All things are lawful for me, but all things are not expedient: all things are lawful for me, but all things edify not.
Original Language Analysis
ἔξεστιν
are lawful
G1832
ἔξεστιν
are lawful
Strong's:
G1832
Word #:
3 of 14
so also ???? <pronunciation strongs="ex-on'"/> neuter present participle of the same (with or without some form of g1510 expressed); impersonally, it
ἀλλ'
but
G235
ἀλλ'
but
Strong's:
G235
Word #:
4 of 14
properly, other things, i.e., (adverbially) contrariwise (in many relations)
συμφέρει·
are
G4851
συμφέρει·
are
Strong's:
G4851
Word #:
7 of 14
to bear together (contribute), i.e., (literally) to collect, or (figuratively) to conduce; especially (neuter participle as a noun) advantage
ἔξεστιν
are lawful
G1832
ἔξεστιν
are lawful
Strong's:
G1832
Word #:
10 of 14
so also ???? <pronunciation strongs="ex-on'"/> neuter present participle of the same (with or without some form of g1510 expressed); impersonally, it
ἀλλ'
but
G235
ἀλλ'
but
Strong's:
G235
Word #:
11 of 14
properly, other things, i.e., (adverbially) contrariwise (in many relations)
Cross References
1 Corinthians 6:12All things are lawful unto me, but all things are not expedient: all things are lawful for me, but I will not be brought under the power of any.1 Corinthians 8:9But take heed lest by any means this liberty of your's become a stumblingblock to them that are weak.Ephesians 4:29Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers.1 Thessalonians 5:11Wherefore comfort yourselves together, and edify one another, even as also ye do.Romans 14:15But if thy brother be grieved with thy meat, now walkest thou not charitably. Destroy not him with thy meat, for whom Christ died.1 Corinthians 14:17For thou verily givest thanks well, but the other is not edified.1 Corinthians 14:26How is it then, brethren? when ye come together, every one of you hath a psalm, hath a doctrine, hath a tongue, hath a revelation, hath an interpretation. Let all things be done unto edifying.1 Corinthians 14:12Even so ye, forasmuch as ye are zealous of spiritual gifts, seek that ye may excel to the edifying of the church.1 Timothy 1:4Neither give heed to fables and endless genealogies, which minister questions, rather than godly edifying which is in faith: so do.
Historical Context
Corinth's culture prized personal autonomy and individual rights. The church absorbed this, claiming freedom in Christ justified attending temple banquets, consorting with prostitutes (6:12-20), and disregarding weaker believers' consciences. Paul redefines freedom: it exists not for self-gratification but for loving service that builds up the community. True freedom considers impact on others, not just individual rights.
Questions for Reflection
- What "lawful" freedoms might you need to limit for the sake of what's beneficial or edifying?
- How can you distinguish between legitimate Christian liberty and selfish license?
- In what areas does modern individualism tempt you to prioritize personal rights over communal edification?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
All things are lawful for me, but all things are not expedient: all things are lawful for me, but all things edify not—Paul quotes (and qualifies) a Corinthian slogan. All things are lawful (panta exestin, πάντα ἔξεστιν) likely reflects their claim to Christian freedom—we're not under law but grace; therefore, all things are permissible. Paul used similar language (6:12) and doesn't entirely reject it—Christians do have freedom in Christ.
However, he adds crucial qualifications: but all things are not expedient (sympherei, συμφέρει, "beneficial/advantageous/helpful"). Freedom exists within love's constraints—what's technically permissible may not be beneficial for you or others. The second qualification—but all things edify not (oikdomei, οἰκοδομεῖ, "build up")—introduces corporate concern. Christian freedom must serve communal edification, building up the body rather than gratifying self.
This verse transitions from theological argument (vv. 14-22) to practical ethics (vv. 23-30). Even if eating idol-food were theoretically permissible (which Paul has argued it's not when done at idol temples), the principles of benefit and edification would still apply. Christian liberty isn't license to do whatever you want; it's freedom to serve love's demands, which often means self-limitation for others' sake.