CHRISTIAN FREEDOM AND MORAL RESPONSIBILITY: A THEOLOGICAL ANALYSIS OF THE AAPOSTLE PAUL’S STATEMENT “EVERYTHING IS PERMISSIBLE FOR ME, BUT NOT ALL THINGS ARE BENEFICIAL” (1 COR. 6: 12) IN THE CONTEXT OF CONTEMPORARY CHALLENGES

Abstract

The article is devoted to the theological analysis of the principle of Christian freedom in the context of the Apostle Paul’s statement “Everything is permissible for me, but not all things are beneficial” (1 Cor. 6:12) and its relevance to contemporary society. The author explores the biblical, historical, cultural, and patristic background of this statement, revealing that the Apostle Paul contrasts true freedom in Christ with the temptation of permissiveness and spiritual slavery. It is emphasised that Christian freedom is not unlimited personal autonomy, instead it requires moral responsibility, a focus on spiritual benefit, the good of one's neighbour, and service to God.

Special attention is paid to the contemporary dimension of this issue. The author shows that in case of globalisation, digital transformation, cultural pluralism and legal relativism, freedom is often reduced to arbitrariness. Several examples of manifestations of this temptation are analysed: informational permissiveness, consumer culture, abuse of freedom of speech and entrepreneurial activity. In this context, the biblical principle of ‘not all things are beneficial’ is considered a universal criterion for moral discernment that remains relevant in the 21^st century.

A separate chapter is devoted to Ukrainian society, which, in the context of war and democratic reforms, is facing acute challenges in the area of freedom. Russian aggression, the spread of disinformation, political polarisation and corrupt practices expose the problem of using freedom without a focus on moral good. The author argues that Paul's principle is of particular importance for Ukraine, since true freedom lies not in arbitrariness, but in sacrificial service and solidarity.

The article concludes by outlining practical guidelines for embodying Christian freedom:

• fostering media literacy;
• developing an ethical economy;
• forming civic maturity;
• the active mission of the Church in reminding people of the spiritual meaning of freedom.

The author argues that the biblical understanding of freedom can become the foundation for rebuilding society after the war and its further development towards honesty, responsibility, and spiritual unity.

Thus, not only does the article reveal the theological essence of Christian freedom, but also offers its interpretation as a practical guide for contemporary man and society.