a thing is not wrong in itself, it is right for us to indulge in it. Oui liberty is to be asserted, but it is to be exercised in such a way as not to injure others. We must not put a stumbling-block in our brother's way, V. 12. This consideration of others in the use of our liberty is enforced,
1. From the great law of love ; it is inconsistent with Christian charity, for our own gratification, to injure a brother for whom Christ died, v. 15.
2. From a regard to the honour of religion. We must not cause that which is good to be evil spoken of, v. 16. 3. From the consideration that religion does not consist in such things, vs. 17, 18. 4. Because we are bound to promote the peace and edification of the church, v. 19.
5. Though the things in question may be in themselves indifferent, it is morally wrong to indulge in them to the injury of others, vs. 20, 21,
6. The course enjoined by the apostle requires no concession of princi- ple, or adoption of error; we can retain our full belief of the indifference. of things which God has not pronounced sinful ; but those who have not our faith cannot act upon it, and therefore, should not be encouraged so to do, vs. 22, 23.