Freed FROM and Freed FOR

One of the things that came to mind when writing my sermon that, through my writing process, just didn’t make it in was this idea of freedom. Lately I hear the word “freedom” thrown around a lot. Paul, in his letter to the Galatians speaks about what it means to be free and teaches that freedom comes with responsibilities.

For you were called to freedom, brothers and sisters; only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for self-indulgence, but through love become slaves to one another. For the whole law is summed up in a single commandment, “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” If, however, you bite and devour one another, take care that you are not consumed by one another. (Galatians 5:13-15)

Paul is explicit and completely clear; our freedom should ALWAYS be viewed through the lens of loving and serving our neighbor. People today often disagree about that, and the fact that Paul has to explain freedom to the Galatians suggests it wasn't a settled question then either. Perhaps one solution is to examine the results. If the way you exercise your freedom results in the fruits of Spirit (love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control - Galatians 5:22-23), then it is likely to be the freedom that comes from Christ. But if the way you exercise your freedom results in the "works of the flesh," (fornication, impurity, licentiousness, idolatry, sorcery, enmities, strife, jealousy, anger, quarrels, dissensions, factions, envy, drunkenness, carousing, and things like these - Galatians 5:19-21) you might be acting out of selfishness, not freedom.

Some people have said to me “My rights come from God, not from the Government.” That is absolutely true…but our “rights” are not absolute as you think they are when viewed through loving our neighbor and the fruits of the spirit.

We are freed through Christ, but remain slaves to one another… Galatians 5:13.  

I AM my brother’s keeper.

I talked a lot about Paul today. Learning more about Paul, who he was and what he believed is valuable for a Christian. Below are links to a 2-part PBS documentary about Paul that I found entertaining and informative. One of them even features a relative of mine!

I pray that you all have a blessed week.

Pastor Bob

Part 1 of the History of St. Paul

Part 2 of The History of St. Paul