Jesus Gives True Freedom
Rev. Charles Oppong-Poku | May 9, 2024 | John 8:33-36
KEY VERSE:
Jesus answered them, “Most assuredly, I say to you, whoever commits sin is a slave of sin…Therefore if the Son makes you free, you shall be free indeed.” John 8:34, 36 (NKJV)
MESSAGE:
In John 8:33-36, Jesus speaks about the true freedom from sin that He offers to those who believe in Him. Sin acts as a master, enslaving even those who consider themselves free. In this passage, sin is portrayed in a verb tense that suggests habitual, ongoing action. Thus, someone entrenched in habitual sin becomes a slave to it. Slavery to sin is the worst kind of slavery because the slave of sin cannot by himself change his status. He cannot convert himself, nor can any fellow sinner convert him. Only the Son of God sets us free and brings us into the household of God.
Jesus explains that everyone who practices sin is a slave to sin. This implies a bondage that enslaves people, preventing them from living according to God's will. Jesus declares that if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed. This indicates true freedom from sin and its consequences through faith in Jesus Christ. Jesus' offer of freedom extends beyond liberation from sin; it includes transformation into sons and daughters of God. This new identity brings eternal security and a relationship with God. Jesus' statement about true freedom contrasts the bondage of sin that enslaves humanity with the freedom He offers through His redemptive work, emphasising the transformative power of faith in Him.
FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE:
Sin captures people. Sin enslaves people. Sin abuses people. Sin brings its victims to death. When sin infects and takes root, it becomes addictive and destructive. If you are going to enjoy the freedom the Lord longs to give you, then you must also commit to live for him and turn away from sin. You can, by the Spirit's power, put to death the power of sin, but you must also make it your commitment to leave it behind.
PRAYER:
Heavenly Father, I thank you for the freedom that comes through your Son, Jesus Christ. Help me to recognise the bondage of sin in my life and to turn to Jesus for true freedom and transformation. May I live as sons and daughters of God, reflecting your love and grace to the world. Amen.
THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING.
SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!!
DAILY word study: FREE The word "free" in John 8:36 is translated from the Greek term "ἐλεύθερόν" (eleutheron), which denotes freedom, liberty, or being exempt from subjection.
In the context of our key verse, Jesus contrasts freedom with slavery to sin. Being "free" here means not being bound or enslaved by sinful practices, desires, or habits. It entails liberation from the power and dominion of sin over one's life, allowing for genuine autonomy and self-determination in aligning with God's will.
Jesus' statement underscores the reality that those who habitually engage in sinful behaviour are in bondage to sin's destructive influence. True freedom, therefore, lies in breaking free from the shackles of sin and living in accordance with God's righteous standards.
Reflections:
What steps can we take to break free from the bondage of sin in our lives and experience the true freedom that Jesus offers? How can we cultivate a lifestyle of freedom in Christ, characterized by obedience to his teachings and alignment with his will?
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