In Defence Of Christian Liberty
Galatians 2:4-5
NIV
This matter arose because some false believers had infiltrated our ranks to spy on the freedom we have in Christ Jesus and to make us slaves. [5] We did not give in to them for a moment, so that the truth of the gospel might be preserved for you.
We all know what took place in Galatia hence what Paul’ was posting. In the early days of the Faith, there were contentions and uncertainties regarding the faith. Freedoms and liberties took the centre stage when the Jewish believers met their gentile counterparts
Jewish believers who have become Christian’s held views that they had wanted to impose on the gentile believers. It took Paul to resist and put them in their right place in the newly emerging faith.
Beloved, there are liberties that we enjoy as Christian’s some are spiritual others social and economic! Time and space will not allow me to examine them individually.
Over the years we have watched /looked on as our liberties have been taken away by people who want to impose their views and opinions on us, all in the name of Christian virtues!
Paul used a rather strong term to describe these brethren! Read it
Galatians 2:4
NIV
This matter arose because some **false believers** had infiltrated our ranks to spy on the freedom* we have in Christ Jesus and to make us slaves.
The Christian and social life has been an area where liberties have been contended! Can a Christian attend a cinema? Can a Christian eat at a chop bar where alcohol is sold? Can a Christian walk with a sister? Add yours.
Some have a tall list of music that can /can not be played, listened to, etc by a Christian. Yes!
Yes, any music that has profane words surely is not good for the Christian , even then it’s a matter of maturity!
In Christianity some can only take milk, some eat meat others chew bones. Each must be a judge for himself as to what level he/she has attained and what he/she can listen to!
The bottom line is a Christian must simply be circumspect.
When we were young we were regulated by our guardians but when we came of age they granted us the freedom and liberty to be ourselves.
Whatever each is today is as a result of how he/she applied or used the freedom /liberty he/she had.
When we began the journey as believers were fed with milk , some fortunately progressed to eat meat then finally to chewing bones. The unfortunate ones remained at the milk stage because their guardians were either not feeding them well or were afraid they’d misuse their “teeth” should they know how to eat meat and chew bones!
Your freedom and liberty in Christ is a function of your level of maturity. It is not about how long you’ve been around but how much knowledge and understanding you have in Christ.
Do not let any “ false believer ” infiltrate your ranks to spy on the freedom you have in Christ Jesus and to make you a slave”.
Like Paul said ;
Galatians 2:5
NIV
We did not give in to them for a moment, so that the truth of the gospel might be preserved for you.
(A contribution to the advancement of knowledge and wisdom )