Day 222

Ezra 10:1-44; 1 Corinthians 6:1-20; Psalm 31:9-18; Proverbs 21:3

AS WE CONTINUE our journey through 1 Corinthians, we see that Paul’s tone is very direct and even confrontational in this letter. It’s easy to read Paul and sense condemnation in his words, but this would be missing the point. For example, in today’s reading, Paul shamed the Corinthians for taking one another to court to resolve issues that could easily be handled within the community of faith. He also listed a series of behaviors that he condemned strongly. But Paul’s intention wasn’t condemnation. Rather, he called them to a higher standard —and true freedom.

In Paul’s worldview, Jesus changed the entire scope of humanity. Through Christ, a new humanity was created, of which Jesus was the firstborn (Romans 8:29; Colossians 1:18). The rebellion of sin created an irreparable breach between humanity and divinity, and the repercussions were (and are) visible everywhere. But God rescued humanity through Jesus and did away with what had separated us: sin. Jesus’ resurrection eliminated the power of sin in the life of a believer.

The “freedom” that humanity was (and is) touting is essentially the ability to do whatever we want, whenever we like, with whomever we choose, no matter the consequences. In Paul’s view, this is not freedom at all. It’s bondage in disguise.

Paul brilliantly articulated this in our reading today: “You say, ‘I am allowed to do anything’ —but not everything is good for you. And even though ‘I am allowed to do anything,’ I must not become a slave to anything” (1 Corinthians 6:12).

Paul was telling the Corinthians that they could indeed do whatever they wanted. But simply having the ability to make choices does not mean that every choice is a good one. Finding true freedom in Jesus does not mean that we have license to do what we know is wrong. The repercussions of sin will only lead to death in the end.

So how do we know when we’re veering off the narrow path that leads to life? According to Paul, we must be aware of what we are becoming slaves to. Slavery is not freedom. But we can still use our “freedom” to enslave ourselves (and others).

Consider today what has enslaved you and realize that you have been set free from that bondage. Freedom is a choice, and it’s yours to make.

MEDITATION:

The LORD is more pleased when we do what is right and just than when we offer him sacrifices.