Question: Where is the line between Christian liberty and legalism? When is it a sin issue and when is it a "preference," if it is not specifically stated in the Bible? For example, drinking, going out to parties or bars, clothes, music, etc.
Response: Let’s begin with understanding a few key words in the question. Christian liberty typically refers to the rights or freedom of the believer to live within the constraints of clear biblical teaching without the limits of others' (individuals' or churches') expectations, preferences or cultural norms. It is often expressed by a pseudo-spiritual attitude that measures knowing God well by how many questionable behaviors you can do. The value is in liberty, not the humility of Christ. The Bible speaks of liberty as a powerful force to cause harm to others when it is misunderstood and abused.
Legalism is often seen as a strict or harsh adherence to rules, many of which cannot be clearly supported by biblical principle but are honored as if they were biblical. Legalism rejoices too quickly at external conformity far before heart issues are ever addressed. The overriding value is external allegiance rather than heart affection for Christ. The scriptures refer to legalism or self-righteousness as a dangerous deviation from the gospel.
The placement of a well-defined line between the two is not possible precisely due to the unreliability of the human heart and the complexity of life’s situations. Three brief principles or levels of consideration will help guide your discussion and decision making on these issues.
- The glory of God – 1 Corinthians 10:31. The larger context of 10:14 – 11:1 defines this principle by saying our behavior should be limited to what builds others up, expressing thankfulness and seeking the spiritual advantage of others.
- Tripping your brother – Romans 14:13; 1 Corinthians 8:7-13. It is possible that your behavior could be a hindrance to a brother in Christ or even destroy the work that God is doing in someone’s life. This is about being sensitive to the status of the work of God in the lives of those around you.
- Holiness – 1 Peter 1:13-25; Philippians 4:8-9; 1 John 2:15-17. God calls you to holiness of life and heart. Holiness includes a sober-minded break from old ways and desires. It requires you to make decisions based on a reverent fear of and desire for God and his pleasure. Holiness combines an unbreakable allegiance to both truth and love for others. Holiness is love for others from a pure heart.
The line referred to in the question typically is motivated by seeking a winner in the battle for approval to do certain behaviors that are viewed differently among believers. What music you listen to while deciding what to wear if you go drinking at a party held in a bar is really secondary to these questions: Who is in control of your heart and life? Who do you belong to? Who are you serving? The scriptures and principles above will get you started to evaluate your heart on these things.
A helpful resource is a little book edited by C.J. Mahaney,
Worldliness: Resisting the Seduction of a Fallen World. It has chapters on various issues such as modesty, music/media and stuff.