Christian Freedom Has Two Ditches

Christians often fall into one of two ditches.

On one side is legalism—using the law, rules, or outward performance in ways God never intended. On the other side is licentiousness—turning Christian freedom into an excuse for self-indulgence and lawlessness.

But Galatians presents another way: Christian liberty through a life led by the Holy Spirit.

Pastor Brent Madding returns to Everyday Reformation to join Nick Carter and Pastor Brandon Scroggins for a wide-ranging conversation about the book of Galatians, the proper purpose of God’s law, sanctification, Christian freedom, and what it actually means to walk by the Spirit.

Along the way, they wrestle with important questions:

What is legalism—and what is it not?

What does licentiousness look like in the life of a Christian?

Can the law produce holiness, or does the power for sanctification come through the Holy Spirit?

What role should God’s law play in the believer’s life?

How can Christians exercise freedom without being mastered by it?

And how should husbands and fathers teach their families to live with biblical conviction without creating either Pharisees or rebels?

The conversation eventually moves from theological categories into practical decision-making: Is this liberty spiritually helpful? Could it master me? Will it hinder my Christian race? Could it cause a weaker brother to stumble? Does it violate my conscience?

The answer to legalism is not lawlessness. And the answer to lawlessness is not another pile of man-made rules.

The Christian is called to know Christ, walk by the Spirit, live in love, and learn to use the freedom Christ has given responsibly.

Guest: Pastor Brent Madding, pastor of Solid Rock Baptist Church in Kentucky and deputy sheriff.

If this conversation is helpful, share it with another man who is seeking to lead his household faithfully under Christ.

Everyday Reformation exists to take the many truths of God’s Word and apply them to all of God’s world—from the family and the church to the public square. Jesus Christ is Lord over all.