There is freedom in the life of a Christian. It is not freedom to do as we please, rather it is a freedom to do as we ought. In the Apostle Paul’s first letter to the Corinthians, he described their freedom and the limitations of their freedom. A specific problem he addressed pertained to the issue of eating meat that was sacrificed to idols. Paul pointed out that believers have the freedom to eat meat that was sacrificed to idols since idols are meaningless. If our freedom however, causes another person to stumble, then we should limit our freedom out of respect for someone whose conscience may be harmed. Paul makes the principle that he has freedom, but exercising our freedom is not always beneficial:

All things are lawful, but not all things are profitable. All things are lawful, but not all things edify. (1 Corinthians 10:23)

Paul is calling believers to a higher standard – others may pursue certain practices, but he chooses that which is profitable. The word profitable conveys the idea of bringing together. The word edify means to build up and restore. Jesus modeled this principle in His life as He described His relationship with His father:

And He who sent Me is with Me; He has not left Me alone, for I always do the things that are pleasing to Him. (John 8:29)

Can we say that we always do the things that are pleasing to Him? We are to do that which is profitable for ourselves and others. The ultimate standard for our behavior is for the glory of God:

Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all things for the glory of God. (1 Corinthians 10:31)

If Paul challenged his audience to do the mundane activities of life such as eating and drinking for the glory of God, then how much more should we seek to glorify God in the important matters of life? The Westminster catechism asked “What is the chief and highest end of man?” The answer is, “Man’s chief and highest end is to glorify God, and to enjoy him forever.”

How do we bring glory to God? We must live in faithful obedience to God. As we walk by the Spirit, we will not carry out the desires of the flesh. Irenaeus was a church father who reflected upon man and God’s glory, “For the glory of God is a living man; and the life of man consists in beholding God. For if the manifestation of God which is made by means of the creation, affords life to all living in the earth, much more does that revelation of the Father which comes through the Word, give life to those who see God.” His statement is often summarized in the pithy statement, “The glory of God is man fully alive.” We glorify God as He lives His life in and through us.

Rick Higgins

Associate Pastor – Discipleship.  The Church at LifePark