Freedom as a Covering for Evil

Peter writes in his first letter of the Bible, "Act as free men, and do not use your freedom as a covering for evil.."

Peter recognized that some free men would use their newfound freedom in Christ as a contriving tool for sin.

Paul too writes about freedom obtained through Christ. In Romans, he writes that many might use their freedom as a means to sin and obtain even more grace (but objected by saying, "let it not be so!")

Both Paul and Peter knew full well, of the endless appetite of the heart toward evil.

Freedom in Christ does not give the Christian a license to self-gratify - but to sacrifice self for the good of others.

Freedom in Christ does not give warrant to more self-love but to more radical love of others.

Freedom in Christ does not provide cover for secret sins - but pushes for the expulsion of evil in the heart and a drive for the pursuit of righteousness.

Let our lives echo Peter's words, "that by doing right, [we] may silence the ignorance of foolish men."

Lord, help us to live as free men. Free men who love and pursue righteousness. Who expose the evil that lies beneath - for the glory of your name - that none should stumble or be "lied to" by our lives lived out for you.