The Gospel and Boundaries

Amy Simpson joins us for Episode 15 of Leading in the Gospel. Amy is a published author with three books, and works as an acquisitions editor for Moody Press. She joins the podcast to discuss her recent article on Christianity Today entitled, “When Moral Boundaries Become Incubators for Sin.” This conversation is based upon that article.

Article: When Moral Boundaries Become Incubators for Sin

1. Laws actually encourage rebellion.

We already have boundaries in God’s law. God’s law is good but cannot save us. If those boundaries are not enough to transform us and inspire obedience because our sinful nature lives in rebellion against them, why do we believe our own rules will be enough to decrease our desire to sin?

 2. Laws keep us isolated from each other.

Boundaries can be excuses for isolation. We can use our own boundaries to tell ourselves it’s all right to avoid relationships that challenge us. 

3. The problem is within us.

The problem with each of us began in the Garden of Eden; and the problem is always going to live inside any fences or walls we erect around our lives, our bodies, or our hearts. 

Self-satisfied dependency on rigid boundaries will isolate us from one another. It can lull us into a false belief that we can relax our spiritual fight. They tempt us to congratulate ourselves on our appearance of righteousness while weeds grow in untended gardens. By all means, we must draw boundaries where they will help us. But it’s dangerous to imagine they will reform us, protect us from moral decay, or eradicate the true source of sin. We can’t let down our guard. Sin begins in our own hearts and minds, and the most effective protections are the ministry of the Holy Spirit and equal, open relationships with brothers and sisters in Christ.