Don't Waste Your Freedom: What a Man on a Pole Can Teach You About Christian Liberty

In the 5th century, there was a man named Simeon who wanted to be holy. His solution? He climbed a 40-foot pillar and stayed there—for 37 years.

Yes, thirty-seven. No bathroom. No coffee. No community. Just Simeon, a stone column, and a whole lot of birds.

Now, I don’t doubt Simeon’s sincerity. The man was serious about God. But here’s the thing: holiness isn’t about escaping people—it’s about loving them. And while Simeon may have meant well, his freedom became a monument to isolation rather than an invitation to see Jesus.

And that’s the danger we face too.

In 1 Corinthians 8–10, Paul reminds us that Christian liberty isn’t the right to do whatever you want—it’s the opportunity to show the world who Jesus is by how you love, serve, and live. You’re free from guilt, shame, and self-righteous striving. But that freedom isn’t a solo act—it’s for the good of others and the glory of God.

So how do you walk in real freedom? Here are three practical steps:

Run your choices through the “build-up” filter (1 Cor 10:23–24)
Ask: Is this helpful? Will this build others up?
Before you click, post, drink, wear, or say something—ask if it helps someone else grow. Christian liberty always leans toward love.

Pay attention to the conscience of others (1 Cor 10:28–29)
Paul says your liberty stops where someone else’s stumble begins. That doesn’t mean living in fear—but it does mean living with intentional love. Maturity means you’re free enough to not use your freedom.

Glorify God in the everyday (1 Cor 10:31–11:1)
Your playlist, your lunch, your parenting choices—all of it—can either spotlight you or point to Jesus. So start each day asking: How can I show Jesus in what I do today?

Simeon had freedom—but he wasted it by climbing a pillar. Don’t do the same.

Use your freedom to come down, lean in, and build up. Because the world doesn’t need more religious monuments.

It needs gospel messengers.

And if you’ve never trusted Christ—you don’t need a higher perch. You need a new heart. Come to Jesus. He doesn’t just give you rules—He gives you life.

Real freedom starts there.