Freedom’s Responsibility
July 3, 2023
We have a lot of freedoms in the United States of America. We have the right to free speech, to bear arms, and to practice our religion. But, with this freedom comes responsibility. With free speech, we are responsible to assure that we do not lie about or slander others. We are responsible to assure that the firearms we own are locked up properly, so others do not get hurt or killed. We have the responsibility to allow others to practice their own chosen religion in peace, even if we do not agree with it.
Lately, it seems that we are quick to defend our own rights, but not so quick to defend the rights of others. If it is to my personal advantage and it is good in my eyes, then it is right. But, if it disadvantages others, well, too bad for them. As Christians, we have a responsibility toward others. Here is what Paul said to the Christians in Corinth:
23 All things are legitimate [permissible—and we are free to do anything we please], but not all things are helpful (expedient, profitable, and wholesome). All things are legitimate, but not all things are constructive [to character] and edifying [to spiritual life]. 24 Let no one then seek his own good and advantage and profit, but [rather] each one of the other [let him seek the welfare of his neighbor]. (1 Corinthians 10:23-24, AMPC)
Paul is saying that Christians MUST act in a way that considers the needs of others above our own personal rights! Paul further states in verse 33 and continuing in Chapter 11:1 this:
33 Just as I myself strive to please [to accommodate myself to the opinions, desires, and interests of others, adapting myself to] all men in everything I do, not aiming at or considering my own profit and advantage, but that of the many in order that they may be saved. 1 Pattern yourselves after me [follow my example], as I imitate and follow Christ (the Messiah). (AMPC)
This is the bottom line for everyone who claims to be a believer in Christ Jesus: If my words and behaviors are not attracting others to Jesus as Savior, then I MUST make a change. As followers of Christ, we are to be imitators of Christ Jesus. If we are not imitators of Christ, then we are at risk of becoming what Paul states so starkly in Philippians 3:18 of the many whose conduct shows they are really enemies of the cross of Christ.
Yikes! This is more than just living a moral lifestyle; this is about intentionally drawing ALL people to Christ by considering our every word and action. When we make Jesus the Lord of our lives, we immediately have access to God’s benefits, blessings, and freedoms, but with those freedoms come responsibilities. You don’t draw people to Jesus by belittling, threatening, vandalizing, or depriving them of their rights. You draw them to Christ the same way Jesus drew people to God the Father. He used a technique called love. I think that method could work for us, too.