The Greek Stoic philosoper Epictetus has been quoted as saying freedom “is the right to live as we wish.” Ironically, this must have meant a lot to the ancient teacher who was born into slavery. History identifies Epictetus as a slave in Rome who belonged to Epaphroditos, a wealthy freedman of Nero.
Interestingly, the Greek word for ‘freedom’ is eleutheria and is defined as fancied liberty or the liberty to do as one pleases. This word is found in Galatians 5:1 where Paul talks about the reason for Christ’s death and resurrection. Did Christ die so we could live life as we please? Hardly.
Christ died to free us from the bondage of sin. True freedom is living as we should – according to set guidelines established for our good and well-being. True freedom is not living as we please, like Epictetus advocated for.
I have been thinking about this a lot more since my hubby preached about it on Sunday to a group of teenagers. He talked about being a slave of Christ – an interesting thought when discussing freedom…
The freedom to live an obedient life that pleases God is the liberty that Paul speaks of – the liberty that truly frees a person who is enslaved. Those of us who belong to Christ live freed lives for Him, not for ourselves.
For you were called to freedom, brethren; only do not turn your freedom into an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another. Galatians 5:13
