6662 freedom, abuse of Christian
Although Christians have been set free from condemnation by grace, they remain under an obligation to be obedient to God. Abuses of Christian freedom result from a failure to take responsibilities towards God seriously.
Christian freedom can be abused
Believers are freed from condemnation Ro 8:1 See also Isa 50:8-9; Ro 8:33-39; Col 1:22; Rev 1:5
Sin need not enslave believers Jn 8:34-36 See also Ro 6:16-18; Ro 7:14-25; 1Co 7:22-23; 2Pe 2:19
Believers must resist sin Ro 6:12,14 See also Heb 12:1-2; 1Jn 5:16-18
The false idea that grace gives believers the freedom to sin Ro 6:1-2,15 See also Ro 3:5-8; 1Co 10:23; Gal 2:17-21
The dangers of abusing Christian freedom
Becoming a stumbling-block to others 1Co 8:9-12 See also Ro 15:1-3
Indulging oneself Gal 5:13 See also Ro 14:1-18
Using freedom to cover up evil 1Pe 2:16
Examples of abuse of Christian freedom
Falling back into deliberate sin See also Ro 6:1-2; Heb 12:1; 1Jn 3:6; 1Jn 5:16-18
Disobedience towards God 1Jn 3:4; 2Co 10:6; Eph 5:6
Selfishness 1Jn 3:17 See also Lk 6:32-34
Eating food sacrificed to idols 1Co 8:1-13; Rev 2:14,20
