Potluck Casseroles

Charles Spurgeon was a well-known preacher in England and around the world. He also smoked a pipe. One day he passed a tobacco store and read the advertisement, “Smoke the brand that Spurgeon smokes.” When he saw this he was convicted and became aware that his behavior might prove to be an unhealthy hindrance to others and thus reportedly, never smoked again. So, what’s the point? Is it wrong to smoke tobacco? On the other hand, is it right to live on a diet of double cheeseburgers, ice cream and church potluck casseroles? Which is worse for our bodies? Someone once said that smoking won’t keep you out of hell, but it may get you to heaven quicker! Is smoking spiritually wrong or simply physically unhealthy? Think of all the powerful sermons Spurgeon wrote while smoking his pipe in his study.

I think Spurgeon changed his behavior because he understood what Paul meant in Romans 14:19 when he said, “Let us make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification.” In other words, he realized that his behavior may cause someone else to stumble, so he changed it. (Verses 20-21 are pertinent here as well.) The point is that I am to be so considerate of you that there are times when I must limit my own freedom so that I won't potentially hinder you.