Carry the Ball

For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another. (Gal. 5:13)
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​Throughout the book of Galatians, Paul makes the argument that all that Christ has done for us has set us free from the bondage of the Law, sin, and death.  Because of what Christ has done for us, we no longer need to languish under the guilt and burden of the Law.  We no longer have to fear death.  We no longer have to be controlled by sin.  Whereas once the Law of God condemned us for failing to keep it perfectly, “Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us” (3:13).  Paul makes emphatically clear that salvation is by grace alone through faith alone in Christ alone.  Thus, not only should we not seek to earn our salvation through Law-keeping, but it is not possible to do so (5:3-4).  Does that then mean we are free to live as we please?  As Paul would say, “me genoito!”  (May it never be!)  Paul says we ought not to use our newfound freedom to live as we please or to live for ourselves, but rather “do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another” (5:13).  God redeemed us from the curse of the Law, he set us free from the bondage of sin and death, so that we would have the freedom and ability to serve one another.  Sadly, however, church ministry has often been described as a football game where there are 22 men on the field, desperately in need of rest, being cheered on by 50,000 fans, desperately in need of exercise.  If you are believer and you are a member of a church, I want to encourage you to look around and see who needs help.  Step out of the stands and onto the field and see where you can serve.  If you’re not sure, then talk to your pastor or one of your elders or one of your church’s deacons.  Stop cheering on those who need help and be willing to carry the ball.