Christians who truly love one another realize that they don’t have to agree on everything. As Christians, we have freedom in Christ—freedom from the laws and rules that bound people before Christ came and made salvation possible through faith. Rules and regulations don’t change the heart; they only bring feelings of guilt and inadequacy. Yet rather than embrace the freedom Christ gives, many Christians choose to create and impose a set of dos and don’ts on other Christians. These man-made standards divide and destroy relationships and churches.

The early church brought together people from all kinds of cultures, backgrounds, and religious practices. Everyone thought their way was right and arguments ensued. One big issue was food. Jews observed a very strict diet which included a list of clean animals that they were permitted to eat, as long as they were killed and prepared according to religious law. Jews also didn’t eat with Gentiles (non-Jews). There were conflicts over just about everything. Paul explained in 1 Corinthians 10 that we are free to do everything. Christ has set us free from all the restrictions placed on us by religious law; however, it doesn’t mean everything is beneficial. We are to consider the witness that our actions convey. Paul explains that he attempts to fit in wherever he goes because his purpose is to share the message of Jesus Christ. His desire is to share Christ’s love and that won’t happen if he is preoccupied with some personal preference that has no impact on eternity. This is an example worth following.

As long as we agree that salvation comes only through receiving Jesus Christ as Savior, we should be able to live together in unity of Spirit and allow much grace to other Christians and especially to those new in the faith. In 1 Corinthians 10:32-33, Paul instructs us that our life and actions should not cause trouble or confusion for others regarding their faith. We should always make the welfare of others a priority and our actions should be for the good of all, so that many will be drawn to Christ and receive salvation.

Scriptures – John 17:21 (ERV), John 8:36 (NIV); Colossians 2:16-17,22-23 (NLT); 1 Peter 2:16 (ERV); Romans 6:1-2 (NRSVU); Galatians 2:16 (GNT); 1 Corinthians 10:24-26,30-33, 11:1 (GNT); Romans 14:20 (NRSVUE); Galatians 5:13 (ERV)

Verses – “If the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.” (Jn 8:36) “Father, I pray that all who believe in me can be one. You are in me and I am in you. I pray that they can also be one in us. Then the world will believe that you sent me.” (Jn 17:21) My brothers and sisters, God chose you to be free. But don’t use your freedom as an excuse to do what pleases your sinful selves. Instead, serve each other with love. (Ga 5:13)

Questions – Can you think of any personal opinion or practice that separates you from other Christians? Is there a rule that you strongly feel all Christians should abide by? Upon what do you base your opinion? Is it a salvation issue? What does the Bible have to say on the topic?

Prayer – Father, help others to know I am a Christian by the love I show for my brothers and sisters in Christ. May I consider the welfare of others before my own and not allow my selfish notions to cause hurt and division. In Jesus Name, Amen.