Articles
Free In Christ - Galatians 5
Free In Christ - Galatians 5
1 It was for freedom that Christ set us free; therefore keep standing firm and do not be subject again to a yoke of slavery. (Galatians 5:1).
The contextual freedom here is from the demands of the Old Covenant. This was being bound upon the conscience of these first-century disciples, but such was in error. The law was our tutor to bring us to Christ, but now that Christ has come we are no longer under the tutor – not under the law.
Yet, such does NOT mean that disciples are free from all moral obligations! Hence Paul will continue: “13 For you were called to freedom, brethren; only do not turn your freedom into an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another. 14 For the whole Law is fulfilled in one word, in the statement, " You shall love your neighbor as yourself." 15 But if you bite and devour one another, take care lest you be consumed by one another” (Galatians 5:13-15).
Sin is still sinful. To indulge in the works of the flesh will yet result in exclusion from the Kingdom of God (Gal. 5:21). Yet, as we endeavor to follow Christ, we do find that we come short of both our own goal and the teachings of Christ. John wrote: “ 1 My little children, I am writing these things to you that you may not sin. And if anyone sins, we have an Advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous; 2 and He Himself is the propitiation for our sins; and not for ours only, but also for those of the whole world” (1 John 2:1-2).
Here is true freedom. We are not free to choose a life of fleshly indulgence, but we are free from the condemnation of such – through Jesus. Like the prodigal son, we can return to the father. Like Simon of Acts 8, we can repent and pray for forgiveness.
Are you free in Christ?
Hugh DeLong
