Libertinism

A form of abuse of Christian freedom which refuses to acknowledge any obligation for Christians to obey the law or to restrain sin.

Grace must not lead to libertinism

Romans 6:1–2, Romans 6:15 See also Romans 3:5–8; Galatians 2:17–21

What then shall we say? Shall we continue in sin so that grace may increase? Certainly not! How can we who died to sin live in it any longer?

What then? Shall we sin because we are not under law, but under grace? Certainly not!

Believers must resist sin

Romans 6:12, Romans 6:14 See also Hebrews 12:1–2; 1 John 5:16–18

Therefore do not let sin reign in your mortal body so that you obey its desires.

For sin shall not be your master, because you are not under law, but under grace.

The law remains valid for believers

Matthew 5:17–18 See also Joshua 23:6; 1 Chronicles 22:12; Proverbs 28:7; Romans 7:12; 1 Timothy 1:8

Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets. I have not come to abolish them, but to fulfill them. For I tell you truly, until heaven and earth pass away, not a single jot, not a stroke of a pen, will disappear from the Law until everything is accomplished.

The dangers of libertinism

Falling back into sin

Romans 6:1–2; Hebrews 12:1; 1 John 1:8–10

Disobedience towards God

1 John 2:3–4 See also 1 John 3:4; 2 Corinthians 10:6; Ephesians 5:6; 1 Peter 2:8

By this we can be sure that we have come to know Him: if we keep His commandments. If anyone says, “I know Him,” but does not keep His commandments, he is a liar, and the truth is not in him.

Selfishness

1 John 3:17 See also Luke 6:32–34; 2 Timothy 2:1–4; 1 John 2:9–11

If anyone with earthly possessions sees his brother in need, but withholds his compassion from him, how can the love of God abide in him?