1 Corinthians 10:23

KJV

¶ All things are lawful for me, but all things are not expedient: all things are lawful for me, but all things edify not.

KJV (with Strong's)

All things {G3956} are lawful {G1832} for me {G3427}, but {G235} all things {G3956} are {G4851} not {G3756} expedient {G4851}: all things {G3956} are lawful {G1832} for me {G3427}, but {G235} all things {G3956} edify {G3618} not {G3756}.

Complete Jewish Bible

“Everything is permitted,” you say? Maybe, but not everything is helpful. “Everything is permitted?” Maybe, but not everything is edifying.

Berean Standard Bible

“Everything is permissible,” but not everything is beneficial. “Everything is permissible,” but not everything is edifying.

American Standard Version

All things are lawful; but not all things are expedient. All things are lawful; but not all things edify.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
First Corinthians 10:23 encapsulates a foundational principle of Christian liberty, asserting that while believers are free from legalistic constraints, this freedom is not an absolute license. The Apostle Paul qualifies the Corinthian slogan "All things are lawful for me" by introducing two crucial criteria: expediency (profitability) and edification (building up). This verse serves as a pivotal ethical guide, challenging believers to evaluate their actions not merely by their permissibility but by their ultimate benefit to themselves, the community of faith, and the glory of God.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is strategically placed within Paul's broader discussion concerning Christian freedom, particularly in the contentious issue of eating meat sacrificed to idols (chapters 8-10). Having addressed the dangers of idolatry by referencing Israel's history in the wilderness ([1 Corinthians 10:1-13](/1-corinthians/10-1-13 "1 Corinthians 10:1-13 - Warnings from Israel's History")), Paul transitions to practical application regarding food. The phrase "All things are lawful for me" is a Corinthian slogan, which Paul previously quoted and qualified in [1 Corinthians 6:12](/1-corinthians/6-12 "1 Corinthians 6:12 - Christian Liberty and Self-Control"), where the emphasis was on avoiding personal enslavement to anything. Here, in [1 Corinthians 10](/1-corinthians/10 "1 Corinthians 10 - Warnings Against Idolatry and Self-Indulgence"), the focus shifts from individual self-control to the impact of one's actions on the conscience of others and the unity of the community, leading into specific instructions about eating in various social settings ([1 Corinthians 10:25-33](/1-corinthians/10-25-33 "1 Corinthians 10:25-33 - Eating Meat and Glorifying God")).
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The city of Corinth was a bustling, cosmopolitan port city, a hub of trade, wealth, and diverse religious practices, including numerous pagan temples where meat was routinely offered to idols before being sold in the marketplace. For many Corinthian Christians, particularly those with a strong understanding of monotheism and the non-existence of idols ([1 Corinthians 8:4-6](/1-corinthians/8-4-6 "1 Corinthians 8:4-6 - Idols are Nothing")), eating such meat was a matter of indifference. However, for others, especially those recently converted from paganism or with weaker consciences, consuming idol-meat could be a stumbling block, potentially leading them back to idolatrous practices or violating their conscience. Paul's teaching here directly addresses the tension between the "knowledge" of the strong and the "conscience" of the weak, a theme also explored in [Romans 14](/romans/14 "Romans 14 - Principles of Christian Liberty").
* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes significantly to several major themes in [1 Corinthians](/1-corinthians "1 Corinthians - Addressing Divisions and Ethical Issues in the Church"). Firstly, it underscores the theme of **Christian Liberty vs. Responsibility**. While believers are indeed liberated from the Mosaic Law and the power of sin, this freedom is not a license for self-indulgence but must be exercised with consideration for God's glory and the welfare of others. Secondly, the concept of **Expediency (Profitability)** is introduced, challenging believers to move beyond mere permissibility to consider whether an action truly serves a good purpose or brings about positive, advantageous results for spiritual growth and the community. Finally, the paramount theme of **Edification (Building Up)** is highlighted. Paul consistently emphasizes that all Christian actions, especially those related to spiritual gifts and communal practices, should aim to strengthen, encourage, and promote the spiritual growth of the body of Christ, rather than causing division or stumbling, as seen throughout his discourse on love in [1 Corinthians 13](/1-corinthians/13 "1 Corinthians 13 - The Superiority of Love").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **lawful (Greek, _éxesti'_):** This word (G1832) impersonally means "it is right" or "it is permissible." It denotes that which is legitimate or allowed, often in a legal or moral sense. In the context of Christian liberty, it refers to the freedom believers have in Christ from the strictures of the Mosaic Law and human traditions that do not align with the Gospel. Paul acknowledges the truth of this statement regarding the believer's freedom, but immediately qualifies it.
* **expedient (Greek, _symphérō'_):** Derived from _syn_ ("together") and _pherō_ ("to bear"), this word (G4851) literally means "to bear together" or "to bring together." Figuratively, it signifies what is advantageous, profitable, beneficial, or conducive to a good outcome. Paul uses this term to pivot from mere permissibility to practical utility, urging believers to consider whether their actions, though permissible, are truly advantageous for the common good and spiritual well-being.
* **edify (Greek, _oikodoméō'_):** This verb (G3618) means "to build a house," "to construct," or "to build up." In a spiritual sense, it refers to the act of strengthening, encouraging, and promoting the spiritual growth and maturity of individuals and the church as a whole. Paul's repeated use of this term throughout 1 Corinthians emphasizes that the ultimate goal of Christian conduct should be the spiritual strengthening and unity of the body of Christ.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"All things are lawful for me,"**: This phrase likely represents a slogan or principle adopted by some in the Corinthian church, asserting their freedom in Christ. Paul acknowledges the theological truth that, in Christ, believers are indeed free from the legalistic burdens and ceremonial laws that once bound them, and that no external thing in itself defiles a person ([Mark 7:18-19](/mark/7-18-19 "Mark 7:18-19 - What Defiles a Person")).
* **"but all things are not expedient:"**: Paul immediately introduces a crucial qualification. While an action might be permissible (lawful), it does not automatically mean it is beneficial, advantageous, or profitable. This challenges believers to consider the practical consequences and spiritual utility of their choices beyond mere legality. An action might be "allowed" but not "helpful" for spiritual growth or the good of others.
* **"all things are lawful for me,"**: The repetition of the slogan reinforces Paul's affirmation of Christian liberty, ensuring his audience understands he is not denying their freedom. This rhetorical device emphasizes that the issue is not about the legality of the action itself, but its broader implications.
* **"but all things edify not."**: This second qualification is even more profound, shifting the focus from individual benefit to communal good. "Edify" means to build up or strengthen. Paul asserts that while an action might be permissible, it may not contribute to the spiritual growth, unity, or well-being of the church. True Christian liberty is exercised in a way that builds up the body of Christ, rather than tearing it down or causing others to stumble.

#### Literary Devices
Paul employs several effective **literary devices** in this verse. The most prominent is **Repetition**, with the phrase "All things are lawful for me" appearing twice. This serves to acknowledge and affirm the Corinthian believers' understanding of their freedom, demonstrating that Paul is not dismissing their liberty but rather refining its application. Following this, he uses **Antithesis** or **Contrast** by juxtaposing "lawful" with "not expedient" and "not edify." This creates a powerful tension, highlighting that mere permissibility is insufficient criteria for Christian conduct. The structure is a form of **Parallelism**, where the second clause mirrors the first in its structure ("All things are lawful for me, but..."), reinforcing the two distinct but related qualifications Paul introduces. The entire verse functions as a **Proverbial Statement**, a concise, memorable maxim designed to guide ethical decision-making within the Christian community.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
First Corinthians 10:23 stands as a cornerstone for understanding the ethical implications of Christian liberty. It moves beyond a simplistic legalistic framework to embrace a theology of love and responsibility, where freedom is always exercised with consideration for the spiritual welfare of others and the glory of God. This principle underscores that Christian freedom is not an end in itself, but a means to serve and build up the body of Christ. It calls believers to a higher standard of discernment, where choices are evaluated not just by what is permissible, but by what is truly beneficial and constructive for the community. This holistic view of liberty prevents it from devolving into self-serving license and instead channels it towards Christ-like self-sacrifice for the good of the church.

* [Romans 14:13](/romans/14-13 "Romans 14:13 - Do Not Cause Others to Stumble")
* [1 Corinthians 8:9](/1-corinthians/8-9 "1 Corinthians 8:9 - Beware of Causing a Brother to Stumble")
* [Philippians 2:4](/philippians/2-4 "Philippians 2:4 - Look Out for the Interests of Others")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
First Corinthians 10:23 challenges believers to move beyond a minimalist approach to faith—one that merely asks "Is this a sin?"—to a maximalist one that asks, "Does this action contribute to the flourishing of God's kingdom and the spiritual well-being of others?" In a world that often champions individual rights and personal autonomy, this verse calls us to a counter-cultural posture of self-sacrificial love. It compels us to consider the ripple effects of our choices, recognizing that our actions, even seemingly innocuous ones, can either build up or tear down the fabric of Christian community. True freedom in Christ is not found in exercising every right, but in voluntarily limiting our rights for the sake of love, unity, and the advancement of the Gospel. This requires discernment, empathy, and a profound commitment to the common good, mirroring Christ's own example of laying down His rights for our salvation.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "lawful" activities in my life might not be "expedient" or "edifying" for my spiritual growth or the growth of others?**
* **How can I cultivate a mindset that prioritizes the spiritual well-being of others over my personal preferences or rights?**
* **In what areas of my life do I need greater discernment to ensure my actions build up the body of Christ rather than causing division or stumbling?**
* **How does this verse challenge my understanding of Christian liberty in practical, everyday decisions?**

### FAQ
**What is the difference between "lawful," "expedient," and "edify" in this verse?**

Answer: "Lawful" (Greek, _éxesti'_) refers to what is permissible or legitimate according to Christian freedom. It acknowledges that believers are no longer bound by the Old Testament Law in a legalistic sense or by human traditions that do not align with God's will. "Expedient" (Greek, _symphérō'_) means what is advantageous, profitable, or beneficial. It shifts the focus from mere legality to practical utility, asking whether an action truly serves a good purpose. "Edify" (Greek, _oikodoméō'_) means to build up, strengthen, or promote spiritual growth. This term focuses on the communal impact, asking whether an action contributes to the spiritual well-being, unity, and maturity of the church, as opposed to causing division or stumbling. Paul's point is that while something might be permissible, it may not be beneficial for spiritual growth or constructive for the community.

**Does this verse mean Christians should never do anything that might offend someone?**

Answer: Not necessarily. Paul is not advocating for a life paralyzed by fear of offending anyone, but rather for a life lived with intentional love and consideration, especially for those with "weaker consciences" ([1 Corinthians 8:9](/1-corinthians/8-9 "1 Corinthians 8:9 - Beware of Causing a Brother to Stumble")). The core principle is love, which "seeketh not her own" ([1 Corinthians 13:5](/1-corinthians/13-5 "1 Corinthians 13:5 - Love Does Not Seek Its Own")). The goal is to avoid causing a brother or sister to stumble into sin or violate their conscience, not to cater to every personal preference or unreasonable demand. Discerning when to exercise liberty and when to restrict it requires wisdom, prayer, and a deep understanding of the specific context and individuals involved, always aiming for the glory of God and the good of the neighbor ([1 Corinthians 10:31-33](/1-corinthians/10-31-33 "1 Corinthians 10:31-33 - Do All to the Glory of God")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
First Corinthians 10:23 finds its ultimate fulfillment and perfect example in the person and work of Jesus Christ. While "all things were lawful" for Him—indeed, He was without sin and perfectly free—He consistently chose not to exercise His divine prerogatives for His own benefit, but for the "expediency" and "edification" of humanity. Though equal with God, He "made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant" ([Philippians 2:7](/philippians/2-7 "Philippians 2:7 - Christ's Humility")). He did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many ([Matthew 20:28](/matthew/20-28 "Matthew 20:28 - The Son of Man Came to Serve")). His entire ministry, culminating in His death on the cross, was the supreme act of self-limitation for the sake of others' spiritual benefit and eternal edification. Jesus perfectly embodied the principle of love that "does not seek its own" ([1 Corinthians 13:5](/1-corinthians/13-5 "1 Corinthians 13:5 - Love Does Not Seek Its Own")), choosing the path of humility and sacrifice to build up His church and reconcile humanity to God. Therefore, our exercise of Christian liberty, guided by expediency and edification, is not merely an ethical guideline but a call to imitate the self-giving love of our Savior, who perfectly fulfilled this principle for us.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

1 Corinthians 6:12

¶ All 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 8:9

But take heed lest by any means this liberty of yours become a stumblingblock to them that are weak.

Ephesians 4:29

Let 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.

Romans 14:19

Let us therefore follow after the things which make for peace, and things wherewith one may edify another.

Romans 14:20

For meat destroy not the work of God. All things indeed [are] pure; but [it is] evil for that man who eateth with offence.

1 Thessalonians 5:11

¶ Wherefore comfort yourselves together, and edify one another, even as also ye do.

Romans 15:1

¶ We then that are strong ought to bear the infirmities of the weak, and not to please ourselves.