Does the Bible teach on this subject? If so, does it provide any biblical parameters? If not, do believers basically model the time of the Judges where each simply does what is right in his own eyes? Obviously, we have many issues that the first century church never dealt with – how do we approach today’s ministry context guided by biblical principles?
Definitions
In the introduction, some buzz words were intentionally used. If we fail to define these terms, meaningful dialog is already shut down.
Legalism
Theologically, this word has indicated a system of salvation whereby any type of work is added to God’s grace for salvation. Piper defines legalism as the conviction that law-keeping is the ground of our acceptance with God. To this, I would agree.
Practically, legalism is a term used in a negative connotation for an unhealthy view of standards to uphold one’s convictions. If the test of fellowship, for example, has become adherence to one person’s set of personal standards, he would at times be viewed with a spirit of legalism. Additionally, a practical application of legalism would be any emphasis of a performance-based Christianity.
So, theologically, legalism is an issue of whether one is justified by law-keeping or other meritorious works. Practically, legalism has become an issue of whether one is sanctified by law-keeping or maintaining other standards of conduct.
Licentiousness
If you grew up with the King James, the word would be given as lasciviousness. So, whether the word is lasciviousness or licentiousness, what does it mean?
Theologically, the word carries the idea of excessive indulgences in sensual pleasure. It carries the idea of lewdness, debauchery, or lustful.
Practically, the word gets volleyed around with the connotation of license. It is the spirit that teaches that “all things are lawful” without the admonition that “all things are not expedient.” Both truths are necessary for living the Christian life according to biblical design.
Give me liberty or give me death!
Patrick Henry stated these words in a great patriotic context! It seems like his words are being misappropriated today to justify carnal desires. If liberty is thought of as the umbrella to justify sensual music, excessive drinking, vulgar talk, etc – putting the word “Christian” in front of liberty doesn’t make it right.
The problem here is that “liberty” has become code for “I can do me…” Notice Paul’s position on God’s abundant grace: What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin that grace may abound? God forbid! He then goes on to give a great doctrinal teaching on our identification in Christ and the crucified life in Romans 6.
Later, in Galatians 5, Paul specifically states that liberty is not to be used as an occasion to the flesh. Liberty is a wonderful truth in Scriptures, but it must be used appropriately rather than being abused.
Liberty’s Purpose
Galatians 5.13 is a powerful verse.
For, brethren, ye have been called unto liberty; only use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another.
The text is straightforward and clear. Christians are to live in liberty. Liberty is not given so that we can appease our flesh or carnal desires. Instead, liberty is given so that, empowered by the love of Christ, we can serve each other.
So, biblically – what am I free to do? I am free from all bondage so that I may more effectively and faithfully serve the household of faith!
In part two of this post, we conclude with a framework to help sort through areas of conscience in which there is genuine liberty to have disagreements. It’s possible for two believers to make decisions guided by biblical principles, come to different conclusions, and neither believer be in sin!
Stay tuned!