Where Our Liberty Ends

Where Our Liberty Ends

No one should seek their own good, but the good of others.

1 Corinthians 10:24 NIV

         “We should not look after our own advantage but after that of our neighbor,” is a better translation of the verse noted above.

One day a man was arrested. The judge said, “Why did you hit your neighbor on the nose?”

“I was exercising on my lawn,” the man replied. “My neighbor came along and as I swung my arms up and down and sideways, I hit him on the nose. Haven’t I the liberty, your honor, to exercise on my own lawn?”

“Yes,” answered the judge. “But remember, your liberty ends where the other’s nose begins.”

We Christians have the utmost freedom, but we must exercise restraint for the sake of others. The apostle Paul said in 1 Corinthians 10:23, “I have the right to do anything,” you say—but not everything is beneficial. I have the right to do anything—but not everything is constructive.” For example, it’s not wrong to be kind to an unbeliever, but to be seen coming out of a bar or tavern with one might be offensive to a weaker Christian, or may give a misleading view of your character to the unbelieving world. So, while you have the freedom to come and go, shouldn’t you limit your actions to what is good and helpful to others? In other words, the unbelieving world is watching you, Christian. And so are those who are weaker in the faith who look up to you who are more mature. It’s not a question of personal advantage but one of thoughtfulness for others. Matthew said that Jesus came not to be served but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many (Matthew 28:20).

As you go through your day today, free from the chains of sin, keep in mind that you’re also called to share the love of Christ. Use your freedom, then, not as a stumbling block to others, but to teach them the way of self-denial so that they’ll see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.

For those of you who will be worshiping at the Mt. Laurel Church of God this coming Sunday, November 17, God’s message through Pastor Dale will be from Mark 13:1-8. Consider reading this Scripture before coming to worship or before watching on Facebook so your heart is ready to hear the Holy Spirit’s voice.

^{Pastor Dale}

Pastor Dale (PD) and Pamela his wife are honored to serve the Mt. Laurel Church of God. If this Mid-Week Encouragement has helped you, perhaps it may encourage someone else. Feel free to share this message with anyone you choose. And if you'd like to receive PD's Mid-Week Encouragement, just send an email to (kingdomguy@gmail.com) and I'll accommodate your request.