📖 How Libertine Philosophy Killed Stephen & Why It Still Threatens the Church Today

🗡️ This expository sermon was delivered at Pilgrim Baptist Church in Cookeville, TN on Sunday, November 16, 2025, at 2:00 pm. 🗡️

What happens when people twist freedom in Christ into a license to sin? In this powerful exposition of Acts 6-7, we uncover the shocking truth about the libertines who murdered Stephen—and how their dangerous philosophy is still destroying believers today.

The libertines were freed Jewish slaves who became enslaved to something far worse: a twisted form of religious liberty that justified bearing false witness, quenching the Holy Spirit, and ultimately murdering God's prophet. They valued their religious system more than truth itself, their temple more than the Temple Builder, and their traditions more than transformation.

This message exposes two dangerous ditches the modern church must avoid: legalism that kills truth with rules, and libertinism that kills truth with "rights." Both create their own standards, justify sin, and persecute true righteousness. The legalist says "my zeal justifies my methods" while the libertine declares "God's grace covers my lifestyle." Both are deadly wrong.

Discover how grace actually works according to Titus 2—it doesn't just save us, it teaches us to deny ungodliness and live righteously. Learn why Romans 6 makes it crystal clear: we're set free FROM sin, not free TO sin. We become servants of righteousness, not independent rebels pursuing freedom from God rather than freedom for God.

This sermon tackles critical questions facing every church: How do we deal with libertinism in our own hearts? Why must older believers teach sound doctrine to younger generations? What does biblical meekness really mean (hint: it's not weakness—it's strength under control)? And how can we uphold holiness while maintaining humility?

Whether you're struggling with someone who's abusing Christian liberty, raising young people in a carnival church culture, or examining your own walk with Christ, this message provides biblical answers with convicting clarity. From Matthew 18 confrontation principles to Galatians restoration in meekness, you'll find practical wisdom for walking in true freedom.

The choice is clear: Will you pursue freedom FROM God's standard (slavery in disguise) or freedom FOR God's glory (liberty indeed)? As Jesus promised in John 8:36—"If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed." 🕊️

True Christian liberty serves others in love, produces holiness not happiness in sin, and glorifies God Almighty. Don't settle for false freedom that leads to bondage. Walk in the Spirit and experience the transforming power of grace that enables what the law never could.

Connect with Pilgrim Baptist Church:

🌐 Website: https://pilgrimbaptist.church/

✍️ Pastor Fortunato's Blog: https://fortunato.blog/

👥 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PilgrimBaptistCookeville

💝 Support Our Ministry: https://pilgrimbaptist.church/giving

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