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Bridging The Cultural Divide Introduction: Paul was sent to preach to the gentiles, Romans 15.15-16. This created those problems as there was a cultural divide between the Jews and Gentiles. The first Christian converts were Jews who accepted the Gospel; when Gentiles obeyed the Gospel this created problems, Acts 11.2-3. Hard to imagine some of the cultural differences between Jews/Christians and Gentiles/Christians. Just as it may be hard for us to understand some of the cultural differences we face today. I) Paul's Lesson in 1 Corinthians A) 1 Corinthians 9.19-23 1. Paul realized that some of the cultural differences we exactly that, cultural differences and not matters of sin. a. You all versus you unzes b. Dinner versus supper c. Grandma versus Mema, or boiled peanuts, grits, etc. 2. With the Jews, Paul observed their culture, v. 19b. a. Circumcision of Timothy, Acts 16.3 b. Took a Jewish oath, Acts 18.18 3. With the gentiles, Paul observed their customs, v. 21b. Paul ate with them, Galatians 2.11-14; Acts 16.34 4. To the weak Christians-- those who had a problem of eating of meats, observance of days, Paul went by their scruples, v. 22b. B) 1 Corinthians 8.13 1. Paul understood the problem some would have with eating meats offered to idols. 2. VV. 1-7 Paul knew that an idol is nothing for they do not really exist. 3. Paul knew some could not separate the idol from the meat, vv. 7ff. C) 1 Corinthians 6.12-13 1. The dividing line is when sin is involved. 2. Transition from eating of food for the stomach to sexual immorality. 3. Paul was not bound by the law of Moses but the law of Christ. D) We often have problems of understanding the cultural divides but there are lessons to be learned from them 1. Cornelius we see zeal, Acts 10.24-27 2. Ephesus we see commitment, Acts 19.18-20 3. Macedonia we see sacrifice, 2 Corinthians 8.1-5 II) Modern Day Examples A) The Maydells in Africa.
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