A friend asked me a question about the appearance of evil in a Christian’s life… below is a generalized response…

We absolutely have liberty in Jesus. Paul talks about all things being lawful, but not all things are helpful or edifying(1 Cor 10:23). And the Bible gives some warnings about misusing our freedoms at the expense of stumbling someone or for opportunities for our flesh.

1 Corinthians 8:9
But beware lest somehow this liberty of yours become a stumbling block to those who are weak.

Even though I might be mature and self controlled in a certain area, that doesn’t mean I can exercise my freedom at the expense of stumbling a weaker believer, or even getting in the way of a non-believer accepting the gospel.

1 Corinthians 10:28-33
But if anyone says to you, “This was offered to idols,” do not eat it for the sake of the one who told you, and for conscience’ sake; for “the earth is the LORD‘s, and all its fullness.” “Conscience,” I say, not your own, but that of the other. For why is my liberty judged by another man’s conscience? But if I partake with thanks, why am I evil spoken of for the food over which I give thanks?. Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God. Give no offense, either to the Jews or to the Greeks or to the church of God, just as I also please all men in all things, not seeking my own profit, but the profit of many, that they may be saved.

This is speaking directly to the issue of eating meat sacrificed to idols, but the principle applies to any situation that is seen as improper in a given society. As an example. I doubt I’m alone; but when I see a couple living in the same location I assume that they are sexually involved. May be a bad assumption, but I would bet that it would be the most common assumption in our society. Even if they are abstaining, unmarried Christians should try to avoid appearing as though they are sexually involved. Again for the sake of a young believer or a nonbeliever. Bottom line, is it glorifying to God?

Galatians 5:13-14
For you, brethren, have been called to liberty; only do not use liberty as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another. For all the law is fulfilled in one word, even in this: “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.”

Continuing the above example. This would be a perfect example of allowing an opportunity of the flesh. If we allow ourselves to remain in tempting situations, it’s only a matter of when, not if, we wind up in sin. I’m not saying this out of pride or arrogance… I’ve allowed myself into plenty of situations that wound up being sinful.

God Bless,

Joel

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