1 Corinthians: A 35-Day Reading PlanSample

How To Know When Popular Opinion Is Wrong

On TV, opinion-givers comment on other opinion-givers and call it news. Often, information’s value is determined by its effect on ratings rather than its effect on our lives.

On social media, we like and repost the opinions we agree with and dismiss the rest. The value of information is based on its ability to build our following rather than to increase our understanding. Even in real life relationships, it’s not unusual to get opinions on what we wear, the way we speak, or what we do from friends and family who want to help us fit in.  

In a world where so much of what we learn is self-seeking, how do we know whom to listen to?  

In 1 Corinthians 6:1-11, a church planter named Paul teaches us how to handle the opinions we face each day:

1. Take advice from those who love the Lord.

1 Corinthians 6:11 says, “Do you dare to take it before the ungodly for judgment instead of before the Lord’s people?” Trust people who trust the Lord.

2. Don’t blow things out of proportion.  

1 Corinthians 6:7 says, “The very fact that you have lawsuits among you means you have been completely defeated already.” Too often, people with differences start shouting, slandering, suing, or shooting. Keep small things small.

3. Live like we really are different.  

In 1 Corinthians 6:8-10, Paul says wrongdoers (which can be us when we listen more to the ungodly rather than the godly) will not inherit the kingdom of God. Our inheritance begins the moment we accept Jesus as Lord. As followers of Jesus, we have the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:11). That makes us different, so don’t be afraid to live like you’re different.   

What really matters is what Jesus says about us. Listen to the Holy Spirit, other godly people, and the truth of the Bible. Because when those three agree, it’s all the information we need.

Reflect:

• What opinions are you letting affect you?
• Who are some godly people who can help you decide what’s OK?