In the first century church, there was some confusion regarding idols and things associated with idol worship. Many Gentiles were abandoning their previous religious practices in order to become Christians.
One of the issues that arose pertaining to the meat sold in the marketplace that had been used in sacrifice to idols. Paul explained, “Therefore concerning the eating of things sacrificed to idols, we know that there is no such thing as an idol in the world” (1 Corinthians 8:4). Because of this, Paul went on to say that since idols were not real, there was nothing inherently wrong with eating this meat.
Yet he continued, “However not all men have this knowledge; but some, being accustomed to the idol until now, eat food as if it were sacrificed to an idol; and their conscience being weak is defiled” (1 Corinthians 8:7). Though many Gentiles were turning to Christ, they grew up all their lives thinking these idols were real; they were simply choosing Christ as the superior one to follow.
Their understanding about idols may have been incorrect, yet Paul and other Christians needed to be careful not to cause them to stumble. Paul did not want to do anything that would give these brethren the impression that he was honoring these idols, so he was content to abstain from eating those foods (1 Corinthians 8:8-13). He recognized that they did know what he knew and was willing to accommodate them.
So remember that not everyone knows what you know. We could unintentionally offend someone or cause them to stumble. We must not let our knowledge hinder others from faithfully following Christ.