Christian Living

BORN FREE, LIVE FREE

by Morris Inch
08/21/17
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BORN FREE, LIVE FREE

"God blessed them and said to them, ‘Be fruitful and increase in numbers’" (Gen. 1:28). This was by way of exhortation, implying that they might choose to do so or refrain. As an alternative, he could have required that they do so. But were that the case, they would not have been created in God’s image—with the prospect of voluntarily fulfilling his purpose for their lives.

Not to be overlooked, in Mosaic context the creation narratives amount to an emancipation proclamation. In this regard, humans were born free and meant to retain their freedom. If with qualifications, then the exceptions do not prove to be the rule.

Now slavery was not encouraged in Scripture, although it was allowed under certain circumstances for a period of time. For instance, I have wondered from time to time why the New Testament does not take a more explicit repudiation of bondage. However, when discussing the matter with the scholar Arthur Rupprecht, he pointed out that persons were being released in substantial numbers, while under adverse circumstances. So that they were not given funds, nor had the prospect of wages. Given this situation, it was his opinion that the text was addressing the current problem in a more comprehensive manner.

Several related comments seem in order. (1) We can readily judge from the human defection that freedom entails the prospect of possible failure. Especially if one fails to follow God’s guidance or embrace his enablement. In brief, we are a work in progress.

(2) He can fail through the attempt to overreach. This by way of usurping divine prerogatives. While failing as a result of insufficient knowledge, and/or a righteous resolve. Which amounts to idolatry, as the worship of some aspect of creation rather than the Creator.

(3) Conversely, he can fail through under achievement. Incidently, this is not an instance of humility, but a reverse form of pride. Instead, he should anticipate great things from God. Then, having done so, to undertake great things in his name.

(4) We are admonished to learn from the past, lest we repeat its failures. Not that we should attempt to live in the past, which gives rise to legalism. So that in attempting to escape one problem, we fall prey to another.

(5) Moreover, freedom is meant to incite us to live toward the future. One step at a time, one day at a time, with righteous resolve. Along with the prospect that the best is yet to come for those who put their trust in the Lord.

(6) While engaged in the present. As one called to serve. Sometimes in what appears to be a trivial manner, such as giving a reassuring smile. Sometimes in a more profound manner, so as to rescue a person from some threatening situation.

(7) While sensitive to God’s creative involvement. At first, his initiative may come as a surprise, because we had not expected it. But in retrospect, we are more likely to see how it achieved the purpose for which it was intended.

(8) All things considered, "So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed" (John 8:36). Free from the evil inclination. Free from the fear of failure. Free to return good for evil. Free to explore challenging alternatives. Free indeed!

In conclusion, I am reminded of the expression "land of the free, home of the brave." Initially, it takes courage to strive for freedom. However, it requires even greater courage to exercise it once it has been obtained.

It was largely in these terms that I served in the military during World War II. I chose to do so, even though it was likely that I would have been drafted had I not done so. At that time, our freedom seemed threatened from abroad. In recent years, it has appeared greater threatened by intolerance within our country. By those who insist that we must conform to their way of thinking. I experienced this in graduate school, and in the course of daily life. Even so, I choose to live free, consequences notwithstanding.