In the context of Christian theology, the concept of "Freedom from Human Regulations" refers to the believer's liberation from man-made rules and traditions that are not rooted in the divine commandments of God. This freedom is primarily discussed in the New Testament, where the early church grappled with the transition from the Old Covenant, characterized by the Mosaic Law, to the New Covenant established through Jesus Christ.

Biblical Foundation

The Apostle Paul addresses the issue of human regulations extensively in his epistles. In Colossians 2:20-23 , Paul writes, "If you have died with Christ to the spiritual forces of the world, why, as though you still belonged to the world, do you submit to its regulations: 'Do not handle, do not taste, do not touch!'? These will all perish with use, because they are based on human commands and teachings. Such regulations indeed have an appearance of wisdom, with their self-imposed worship, false humility, and harsh treatment of the body, but they lack any value in restraining sensual indulgence."

Paul emphasizes that believers, having died with Christ, are no longer subject to the world's spiritual forces and its regulations. These human commands, though they may appear wise, are ultimately ineffective in promoting true spiritual growth and holiness.

The Jerusalem Council

The early church faced significant challenges regarding the imposition of Jewish customs on Gentile converts. The Jerusalem Council, as recorded in Acts 15, addressed whether Gentile believers should be required to follow the Mosaic Law, particularly circumcision. The council concluded that imposing such regulations was unnecessary, affirming that salvation is through grace alone. Acts 15:10-11 states, "Now then, why do you test God by placing on the necks of the disciples a yoke that neither we nor our fathers have been able to bear? On the contrary, we believe it is through the grace of the Lord Jesus that we are saved, just as they are."

Galatians and the Law

In his letter to the Galatians, Paul further elaborates on the believer's freedom from the law. Galatians 5:1 declares, "It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not be encumbered once more by a yoke of slavery." Here, Paul warns against returning to the bondage of the law, emphasizing that Christ's sacrifice has liberated believers from such constraints.

The Role of Conscience

While Christians are free from human regulations, the New Testament also teaches the importance of conscience and love in guiding behavior. In Romans 14, Paul discusses the principle of Christian liberty, urging believers to respect one another's convictions on disputable matters. Romans 14:13 advises, "Therefore let us stop judging one another. Instead, make up your mind not to put any stumbling block or obstacle in your brother’s way."

Conclusion

The New Testament presents a clear message that believers are freed from the burden of human regulations and traditions that are not grounded in Scripture. This freedom, however, is not a license for lawlessness but a call to live by the Spirit, guided by love and conscience, in accordance with God's will.