[13] “You, my brothers, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the sinful nature; rather, serve one another in love. [16-18] So I say, live by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the sinful nature. For the sinful nature desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the sinful nature. They are in conflict with each other, so that you do not do what you want. But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under law. [24-25] Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the sinful nature with its passions and desires. Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit.” Galatians 5:13, 16-18, 24-25 (NIV)
John lived an unrestrained life of hedonism. He indulged himself with every desire. There were no limits. Momma had taught him Christian values but he had run from them many years ago. Personal pleasure was more important to him than some figment of momma’s imagination called the Spirit. Now, he was dying, alone, in excruciating pain all because of his unrestrained life. John couldn’t run away from this.
Half way across the planet, Helen lived a “model” life. She attended church every Sunday and sometimes paid attention to what the pastor preached. Helen, occasionally, boasted to herself that she wasn’t a bad person. Also, occasionally, she would gratify certain desires. The Spirit always convicted her, but no one knew that she indulged. Her constant excuse was that she lived under grace and not under laws.
Carefully consider the spectacular concept of freedom in Christ. On the one hand we have free choice, but on the other hand there is responsibility. The choice involves accountability for our choices. This freedom in Christ is not a self determinism that emancipates oneself from the mundane desires of human existence (Stoic philosophy). In addition, it is not some spiritual do-it-yourself project (Gnosticism). This liberty is not open-ended, but rather has limitations. It is a freedom that is exercised within the realm of Christ. It is regulated by the Holy Spirit. And, we are exhorted to use our liberty to serve others. This liberty in Christ is not a freedom to gratify our personal, sinful desires. Paul advises us that a constant “walk in the Spirit” will enable us to triumph in the conflict between self and the Spirit. He explains that our crucified nature, passions, and desires actually give evidence of our relationship with Christ. Living in and walking with the Spirit enables us to be free from the slavery of those desires and passions. Emancipated from sin’s slavery, we enjoy the liberty of obedience to the King.
Dear Father, thank you for the freedom from sin’s slavery. Enable us to fully consider that we are indeed dead to sin, and truly alive unto God. Give us a stronger passion for Christ, and enable us to walk in liberty without abusing it. I pray this in the name of Jesus. AMEN
Be encouraged today with your freedom in Christ,