"Brethren, ye have been called unto liberty; only use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another" (Gal. 5:13).
The first clause of the verse reminds us of our liberty in Christ. This liberty applies to many things, including among others deliverance from the dominion of sin (Jno. 8:32), from this present evil world (Gal. i:4)-its principles, its man-made religious observances, etc. This liberty also applies in the assemblies of God's people where the liberty of the Spirit is to be enjoyed according to i Cor. 14:26. Ecclesiastical machinery and human expediency are unknown where saints come together according to Matt. 18:20 and i Cor. 12:7; where the Holy Spirit, as Leader and Guide, uses whomsoever He will to lead in worship, in praise and prayer, or to speak for God to His people-for their comfort, edification and exhortation. This in actual practice is most beautiful because it is God's good and holy appointment for His people.
But this liberty like all others of God's blessings, is often abused. The beautiful liberty of the Spirit is superseded by activity of the flesh. This very thing is "often in evidence in large or general meetings. In attending such meetings the writer has at times been painfully impressed with the abuse of this God-given liberty. Certain ones undertake to address the assemblage when it is self-evident that they have no spiritual gift to impart in knowledge or edification (Rom. i:n), with the result that precious time is consumed, the Holy Spirit grieved, and God's people deprived of what others may have to minister, but are given no opportunity. This is the abuse of the corporate liberty, which is grievous; it is doing what we are warned against in the second clause of our verse-using liberty as an occasion to the flesh.
This sometimes happens in local gatherings also, and is to be deplored; it is worse, however, when it occurs at large gatherings of God's people, as it affects many, instead of a few.
One is cognizant of the fact that God sometimes uses the humble brother without prominent gift, as His spokesman; but when He prompts a man to speak, His people can readily discern the fact by the power of the message he brings.
Attention is directed to the excellent guide found in the concluding clause of our verse, "By love serve one another" as a safeguard against such abuse.
When we are prompted to address our brethren, we might raise the question with ourselves, " Is it love for my brethren, is it serving the Lord Jesus that induces me to speak?" If it can be honestly answered in the affirmative, one should feel free to engage the attention of his assembled brethren -yea, it is his duty so to do. Any other motive, like desire for public place, display of knowledge, etc. will not serve our brethren but rather grieve them in the abuse of liberty.
It is well to remember that I cannot best serve my brethren by assuming a place for which the Lord has given me no gift. Secret prayer for those who minister the word would be more fruitful, and approved by the Lord. R. J. F.