Pornography Addiction: It is Christ Who Sets Us Free, Not the State

Pornography Addiction: It is Christ Who Sets Us Free, Not the State

In this episode, we explore the compelling narrative of finding freedom in Christ opposed to seeking to legislate morality through the state. I open up about my own struggles with sin and the quest for redemption that required something beyond worldly solutions. We confront the reality that laws alone cannot initiate cultural and spiritual renewal; rather, it’s through the gospel and Christ’s sacrifice that we experience true liberation. I share my journey of making Christ the authority in every aspect of life, revealing the transformative power of His reign. We discuss the significance of church community, the strength found in vulnerability, and the enduring truth that only through Jesus Christ do we achieve sincere and lasting change. This episode is a poignant reflection on personal growth, theological insights, and how we as Christians should look at ourselves and our allegiances/citizenship, being torn between the world and the Kingdom of God. 

Timestamped Overview

• [00:00:34] Introduction
• [00:01:35] Discussion on Eastern Orthodoxy and living for the kingdom of God from a previous conversation.
• [00:02:34] Exploration of political and theological overlaps and contrasts with Matt Erickson.
• [00:03:42] Ongoing discussions on pornography, lust, and Christian purity culture.
• [00:05:12] Personal struggles with pornography and its impact on marriage and intimacy.
• [00:06:35] Realization of severity of the problem, & deciding to finally come clean and seek help. 
• [00:09:02] Contemplation on the roles of personal effort and divine help in overcoming sin.
• [00:10:31] Reflecting on past relationships and seeking healing.
• [00:12:10] Progress in managing addiction but feeling incomplete.
• [00:13:01] Struggling with the idea of permanent brokenness.
• [00:14:07] Experiencing hopelessness in marriage and seeking a way forward.
• [00:14:51] Decision to return to church and the positive changes it brought to the family.
• [00:17:04] Realization that going to church is about obedience and setting an example for children.
• [00:18:04] The shift in family dynamics and spirituality upon returning to church.
• [00:19:59] Wife’s health challenges strengthen her faith and lead to her rebaptism.
• [00:21:09] Connection between personal struggles and broader theological discussions.
• [00:22:18] Rejection of dual citizenship concept in favor of a comprehensive view of Christ’s kingship.
• [00:26:16] Application of Christ’s lordship over all aspects of life, including personal struggles.
• [00:28:03] Emphasizing the importance of submitting every area of life to Christ.
• [00:31:34] Critique of relying on state solutions for moral and cultural issues.
• [00:34:18] Advocating for a gospel-centered approach to overcoming societal problems.
• [00:36:11] Conclusion and invitation to listen to related conversations.

Additional Links

• Conversation with Kerry Baldwin on Lust and Modesty from a Christian Perspective. https://libertarianchristians.com/episode/a-proper-christian-understanding-of-modesty-purity-lust-and-sex-with-kerry-baldwin/
• Webpage for Greenroom episodes. https://libertarianchristians.com/show/greenroom/