In a world where freedoms and liberties are constantly debated, contested, and nullified it’s important to delve into a different kind of freedom — the one that Christ offers. It is a freedom that transcends the limitations imposed by man, law, or nation. Rather than following a rigid set of rules, or aligning with simple regulations — this freedom is promised and received through a personal relationship with Jesus.
Let’s explore the profound liberation found in Christ alone and the transformative power it holds.
The Truth That Sets Us Free
Drawing inspiration from John 8:31–36, we encounter a group of skeptics questioning Jesus’ claim of providing freedom. These individuals, largely Pharisees and descendants of Abraham, were seeking evidence to try and deny Christ’s identity. In a similar manner, our present society challenges our freedoms, identity, and even our Creator. However, Jesus unequivocally declares, “If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” It is through embracing His teachings that we discover genuine freedom.
The Necessity for Freedom
Having established our need for Jesus and recognizing the sins and falsehoods that bind us, we must also understand the purpose behind this freedom. In Isaiah 61:1–3, the prophet Isaiah speaks prophetically about Jesus, who would come to ‘heal the brokenhearted, proclaim freedom for captives, and release prisoners from darkness’. By embracing Christ’s freedom, we are not only liberated ourselves but we are also equipped to extend this freedom to others.
Sharing in the Anointing
As followers of Christ, we are called to be carriers of freedom. Together, with Christ, we share in the anointing to set people free. No longer are we trapped by our past; we possess the freedom to shape a new future. This freedom extends to areas such as harm, abuse, addiction, harmful thoughts, patterns of sin, anxiety, depression, crises, and trauma. Pastor Stephanie Parker, Associate Pastor at Morning Star Church once wisely articulated, “It’s one thing to be rescued from our sin, it’s altogether another thing to walk as someone who is set free.”
Living as a New Creation
In this celebratory season, marked by fireworks and proclamations of freedom, followers of Christ should resound with even greater joy and gratitude. Having received salvation and freedom from the past, we are now new creations in Him. This transformative experience calls for a change in language, conversations, behaviors, and an invitation for others to embrace this new life. We no longer need to carry the burdens of our past; we have been liberated to live the life of freedom God has destined for us.
Letting Go and Embracing Freedom
It is time to let our cheers and celebrations of freedom resound. We are to release the chains, drop the baggage, and let go of the weights that hold us back. Choosing to embrace the freedom Christ has given us, we step into a life of purpose and liberation. Some of the things weighing us down aren’t holding us — in fact we are just continuing to hold onto them.
It is vital to live in the freedom that Christ bestows upon us. It is a freedom rooted in truth, forgiveness, and redemption. As followers of Jesus, we are called to embody this freedom, sharing it with others and living a life unencumbered by the chains of the past.
Let us embrace the freedom that Christ offers and step into the abundant life He has called us to live.
