The New Definition of Freedom:
Four positions that have changed the way freedom is viewed in America which will guarantee it’s destruction.
“America will never be destroyed from the outside. If we falter and lose our freedoms, it will be because we destroyed ourselves.” Abraham Lincoln
Lincoln’s quote is an interesting commentary on the possession of freedom. It does not address the defense of freedom, nor does it seek to define freedom. It does, however, clearly identify it’s destruction. Freedom, though it is characterized by our Constitution as a right, cannot endure unless we choose to properly define freedom and secure that definition.
Our society is recklessly destroying our freedom by demanding tolerance of personal desires that violate legally established standards of conduct, ethics, and speech. Federal judges have stretched the definition of free speech so far that any position, publication, activity, or conduct becomes defensible. Behavior, clothing, language, bumper stickers, and gestures which have historically been deemed as offensive, are now acceptable, even when they are intended to offend.
Our students are being taught that their right to freedom is not bound by law, overruled by authority or influenced by consequences (which are often devastating to them personally).
And to make it worse, those who choose to defend legally established standards are characterized as “enemies of freedom.”
Four dangerous tenets of this “New Freedom”
- Personal freedom acknowledges no restraints: Each individual is an authority unto himself; he accepts no other. Parents, educators, employers, government, and God are all subservient to the individual’s desires and demands.
- Personal freedom accepts no responsibility: Each individual is blameless if his words, attitudes or deeds are motivated by a sincerely held belief that he is right. If negative consequences develop, he becomes the victim.
- Personal freedom displays no respect: Respect is only justified if the individual deems it worthy. Those who disagree with his opinion are viewed with contempt – position, compassion, honesty, morality or kindness are considered irrelevant.
- Personal freedom tolerates no regrets: Because the individual accepts no responsibility for the consequences of his behavior, there is no reason to feel any regret or guilt. Regret and guilt become enemies of his personal freedom, therefore, he rejects them.
The Problem: “they did not like to retain God in their knowledge” Romans 1:28
The Solution: “ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free” John 8:32
In Scripture freedom is defined by truth. Unless our society once again chooses to acknowledge God as their authority and realize that freedom is found only in embracing the truth He has provided, we will lose our freedom, and, as our former president said: “it will be because we destroyed ourselves.”
Pastor Hyman,
What an excellent post describing our modern-day society and the rapid decline of morals.
You may not remember me, but I once attended your church. I will be back in attendance this coming Sunday.
I also which to speak with you regarding my calling to the ministry.
I’m currently enrolled in Liberty University online pursuing my Bachelor of Science degree in Religion; Biblical Studies and Theology. I start full time on May 13th. I will have my degree in approximately one to one and a half years.
Please contact me at your earliest convenience so I may schedule a meeting with you. My cellphone is (615) 995-2227, and my primary e-mail address is: bill.king1960@yahoo.com.
Blessings and graces,
William ‘Bill’ C. King
139 Preston Lane
Byron GA 31008