An Authentic Calling: Representing Christ and His Kingdom through the Church

Ses s i on 4: A Ca l l to F reedom

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d. We have been set free to discipline ourselves for the purpose of godliness, 1 Tim. 4.7-8 (ESV) – Have no thing to do with irreverent, silly myths. Rather train yourself for godliness; [8] for while bodily training is of some value, godliness is of value in every way, as it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come.

e. We have been set free to make God known to others, 1 Cor. 9.19 (ESV) – For though I am free from all, I have made myself a servant to all, that I might win more of them.

3. Principles of freedom for all believers

a. The Christian life is an experience of transformation and newness, 1 Cor. 6.9-11.

b. We are free in Christ, but not everything is edifying or helpful, 1 Cor. 6.12; 10.23.

c. We are free in Christ, but nothing addictive or coercive should exercise control over us, 1 Cor. 6.12.

d. We are free in Christ, but should not flaunt it in order to wound the conscience of believers of weaker conscience, 1 Cor. 8.7-13.

e. We are free in Christ, and ought to use our freedom to love our brothers and sisters in Christ, Gal. 5.13; 1 Cor. 10.24.

f. We are free in Christ, but ought not use it as a license for sin, but to see ourselves as the very slaves of God, 1 Pet. 2.16; Gal. 5.13.