How Christian Freedom Is Meant to Be Used
If you’ve ever read Galatians 5:13 in the Bible, you might have come across this phrase: “Don’t let your freedom be an occasion for the flesh.” But what does that really mean, and why is it important for everyday life? Let’s break it down in simple terms.
Understanding the Key Phrases
· Freedom: This “freedom” means that, as Christians, you’re no longer weighed down by a long list of religious rules or rituals. You’re set free from the burden of having to earn your way to God. Instead, you live by God’s grace and the guidance of the Holy Spirit.
· Occasion for the flesh: Here, “the flesh” refers to our selfish or sinful desires—the urge to do whatever we want, even if it hurts others or goes against what’s right. Using freedom as an “occasion for the flesh” means taking advantage of your freedom to do things you know are wrong, just because you can.
· Serve one another in love: Rather than using your freedom selfishly, Paul says it should move you to help and care for others. True Christian freedom shows itself by loving and serving people around you.
Why This Warning Matters
Don’t Get It Twisted! Some people might think, “If I’m free, I can do whatever I want.” The Bible warns us that’s not the point. Freedom in Christ isn’t giving you a green light to ignore right and wrong or hurt others. Instead, it’s about being released from guilt and the need to prove yourself—so that you’re free to love others, not just please yourself.
Focus on Others, Not Just Yourself The natural pull of “the flesh” is to look out for #1—to do what feels good or benefits you, even if it’s not loving or kind. But true Christian freedom flips that script. Instead of serving yourself, you’re called to use your freedom to serve others in love. It’s like being given a powerful tool, not for selfish reasons, but to make a difference in the lives of those around you.
How Does This Look in Everyday Life?
· If you disagree with someone, don’t use your freedom as an excuse to insult, hurt, or “bite and devour” them (as Paul puts it). Instead, respond with patience and kindness, even if you see things differently.
· When you have the chance to do whatever you want, think about how your choice might affect others. If your actions could hurt someone or lead you away from what’s right, it’s not the kind of freedom God had in mind.
· True freedom means you’re not tied down by guilt, shame, or a long checklist of rules. But you’re also not “free” to ignore what’s good and loving. The best use of your freedom is to help, encourage, and lift up other people.
One Simple Rule: Love Your Neighbor
The heart of it all is simple: “Love your neighbor as yourself.” If you use your freedom to serve and love others, you’re actually doing what God always wanted from the beginning. Living this way not only makes your life better, but it also helps build communities where people care for each other, not just themselves.
Final Thoughts
Christian freedom isn’t about breaking all the rules or doing whatever you want. It’s about the joy of living by God’s grace—and using your new freedom to show love and kindness to others. When you do that, you’re truly free in the best possible way.
Minister A Francine Green
September 2025
afrancinegreen.com 