Here the apostle answers an objection: "Some might be ready to say, that they had faith, that is,. firm and full persuasion that it is lawful for them to eat those meats, which others judged to be sinful; and therefore it is necessary that they profess it, and own it, and assert their liberty."

The apostle answers, "Hast thou more knowledge than he, to believe those things to be lawful, which he apprehends to be sinful? Keep thy knowledge and belief to thyself, to justify thy actions before God, but use it not to the hurt and prejudice of others; for he is. happy man, that when he knows. thing to be lawful, doth so use his liberty about it as not to offend others, or condemn himself; for that is. sad kind of knowledge which is used to destroy others, and condemn ourselves.

Such Christians as have different sentiments from their brethren, as to the matters of indifferent things especially, ought to keep their judgment and opinion to themselves, and not to hazard the peace of the church by an imprudent publication: Hast thou faith? have it to thyself.

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Old Testament