Free Indeed!
by
Minister Clyde Dowling
John 8:32 tells us if the Son makes you free, you are free indeed. Not just free, but free indeed. Great emphasis was placed on the word indeed. This tells us that the freedom that we receive in Christ is no ordinary freedom. It’s a freedom that goes beyond our natural expectations.
To understand the type of freedom we have been granted goes all the way back to the book of Genesis, where we see the details of God’s awesome creation. In Genesis 1:26 we see God creating man (Adam) in His image and after His likeness. God’s intent was to have fellowship and communion with man. But, because of man’s sin, that fellowship was ruined.
For hundreds of years to come, man’s relationship with God was tarnished. Even with the institution of the law and the commandments, judges, priests and prophets, man could not be redeemed until Jesus came on the scene. Romans 5:15 tells us that the free gift of salvation is not like the offense (man’s sin), because if by one man’s offense, many died (separated from God), much more the grace of God and the gift by the grace of the one man Jesus Christ, abounded to many. Adam’s sin placed us in bondage, while the free gift of God’s grace released us from that condition.
Many of us, Christians and non-Christians alike, fail to really grasp this awesome truth and continue to be burdened with useless efforts. I am reminded of a story that took place during the Civil War. It was the North against the South. The war had taken its toll on the troops. A presidential decree was signed to declare the end of the war. Great joy and relief were expressed by those you heard the news. But, those who did not hear the news kept on fighting. Weeks went by with these troops still confronting the enemy. One day a messenger visited them and wondered why they were still on the offensive. They replied by saying “we must attack and destroy the enemy”. The messenger was shocked to find out that they did not hear the good news that “it is finished”, just as Jesus announced while on the cross. (John 19:30)
Jesus stood in the gap for humanity. He paid the price for each of us and because of that, we are free indeed. This freedom came with a price. It is a price that none of us could’ve paid. It took a sinless Saviour to redeem us and place us back in to right standing with God. Second Corinthians 5:21, “For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him”.
Now the questions are what have we been freed from? And what are the benefits of this new found freedom? I am glad you asked. Here are a few passages along with some thoughts:
* Free from God’s anger
Romans 5:10 For if when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God through the death of His Son, much more, having been reconciled, we shall be saved by His life.
Believe it or not, we were enemies of God. Adams’s sin placed us in this position. We desperately needed a Saviour that would bridge the gap between God and us. There was a break in the relationship that needed mending. Christ provided the link that brought us back in right relationship with our Heavenly Father. Not only are we “not” enemies anymore, as believers he now calls us friends. Take a look at John 15:15 and see what I mean.
* Free from our own work
Hebrews 4:10 For he who has entered His rest as himself also ceased from his works as God did from His.
Salvation is about what Christ did for us, not what we’ve done or are doing to obtain it. The only part we have in this is either to accept or deny His finished work. Many people think that they have to work to please God. The only thing that pleases God is faith (Hebrews 11:6). We work because of what He has already done. He demonstrated His love towards us in allowing Jesus to be the ultimate sin sacrifice for every one of us. Our understanding of this is what motivates us to want to share our faith, work in the ministries within the church, feed the poor and help those in need. Therefore beloved, rest in Him and see where he wants to lead you.
Free from guilt and condemnation
Romans 8:1, 2 There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus, who do not walk according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit. For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has made me free from the law of sin and death.
What great news this passage has to offer. Free from condemnation; whether from someone else or self induced. While we are living on this earth, we will encounter issues that will try to make us feel inadequate or unworthy. We must realize that we have a new identity; forgiven, sanctified, righteous, redeemed and free. This new identity comes from being in Christ. When we fail to accept this new identity we leave the door open for negative thoughts and self doubt to enter. This leads to guilt and condemnation. Remember, the Righteous Judge has granted you a pardon. Hold your head up, stick your chest out and enjoy your life.
These are just a few of many of God’s awesome promises to us. God really loves us and wants us to live a fulfilled life. But, in order for us to do that we must understand what it means to be free in Christ. We must also accept this freedom and begin to live accordingly.
Before Jesus told the disciples that the “truth will make them free”, in John 8:31, He said to them,”If you abide (to remain or to continue) in my Word you are My disciples indeed”. There is that word indeed again. True disciples (learners) of Jesus Christ find great pleasure in abiding in the Word of God. It is there where true freedom is found. As we get into the Word of God, we are able to uncover the awesome truth that has been placed there for us. Only then are we able to enjoy true freedom in Christ.
God Bless You.
