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What happens when freedom is misused and abused?

4 min read

Scripture reading: Galatians 6:1-10. Text: “For you were called to freedom, brethren; only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love be servants of one another.” Galatians 5:17.

A few days ago we celebrated Independence Day. As was mentioned before, independence, liberty, and freedom are closely related. Take away one and the other two will be lost also. Our forefathers paid the ultimate price for our freedom. While we are proud and happy of being an independent and free country, we should ask: When freedom is given does it have only its bright and benevolent side? Apostle Paul knew that freedom can be misused and abused. From our text I wish to emphasize these words and see how they are expressed in other translations:

– “do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh” Revised Standard Version, – “do not use your freedom to indulge the sinful nature” New International Version,

– “you have been given freedom: not freedom to do wrong” The Living Bible, and

– “don’t use your freedom to satisfy your sinful nature” New Living Translation.

Reading these versions we have some basic ideas what Apostle Paul had in mind.

WE CAN RAISE THE QUESTION: IS FREEDOM MISUSED AND ABUSED TODAY?

If possible with objectivity and honesty, answer the question of how freedom could become detrimental instead of helpful? How would you prevent freedom from being misinterpreted and misused? So many things in life can be blessing and bane, positive and negative. Following are some questions, please think about them and try to find the correct answers.

– If something is not illegal, it hurts nobody, or it can be done secretly, are we

we free to pursue it? What forbids or permits us to carry out our wish? Am I

supposed to take into consideration the interest, safety, and welfare of others?

– If more people enjoy more freedom will it create more understanding or more

disagreement, more harmony or more confusion?

– What does history show? Did unlimited freedom result in happiness, safety, and

prosperity for millions? Or, when “everything” is permitted will it lead to chaos?

– Do legislation, law enforcement, and the justice system curtail or enhance freedom?

– If “others do it,” am I free to do the same? Are we supposed to be equal?

– Which principle overrules the other? Does God’s commandment overrule the law

of the land? Does the public interest overrule the benefit of a person or a group?

Do high moral standards restrict people or do liberal views guarantee freedom?

– Where is the dividing line between being free and being controlled and how far are

they from each other?

– What will the future hold? What is permitted to be done and are we free to pursue

it? Will it be to our advantage or disadvantage?

– Are there any restrictions curtailing freedom and are they “enemies” of liberty?

– That which is free for one to do, could it become hurtful for others?

– Should liberally interpreted freedom permit unlimited criticism, uncontrolled

opposition, and illogical objection? Can we work without harmony and cooperation?

– Can freedom alone, all by itself, exist for the benefit of the people or should it

be strengthened with other virtues? I would say (and you may disagree) freedom

should be bolstered by being vigilant, having high moral standards, true

patriotism, religious convictions, respect for the law and the Golden Rule: “‘So

whatever you wish that man would do to you, do so to them; for this is the law and

the prophets.'” Matthew 7:12.

Apostle Paul did not intend to be involved in politics or to approve of any form of government, however, in the noblest interpretation of freedom – see the paragraph above – this is what he recommended: “First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all men, for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life, godly and respectful in every way.” 1 Timothy 2:1-2. Also: “Obey your leaders and submit to them; for they are keeping watch over your souls, as men who will have to give account. Let them do this joyfully, and not sadly, for that would be of no advantage to you.” Hebrews 13:17. Read also Romans 13:1-7 and 1 Thessalon. 5:12-13.

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