I remember listening to Elton John’s Philadelphia Freedom back in ’75-’76. Though not meant to, it was associated with the USA’s Bicentennial. Everyone, the world over, wants freedom. Men and Women have given their lives fighting for freedom. We have freedom of religion, freedom of speech, freedom to bear arms, freedom of expression, and others (whom to love, where to live), etc.
All the freedom we have is great! We’re allowed certain leeway in life, and are able to accomplish great and astounding things in composition, written works, architecture, etc. But as great as all the freedom in the world is, there’s something it just can’t offer. The religious leaders of Jesus’ day faced the same dilemma millions face today: They felt they were free men. They thought their freedom afforded them a righteousness that linked them to God as His people. They thought they were “cool” with God and that He smiled upon them. And so, they told Jesus, “We have never been slaves to anyone” (John 8:33).
But Jesus desired for them to know a truth unheard of; an intangible freedom. One from within, one that was unseen, yet powerful enough to break chains, yokes of oppression, and offer complete deliverance in their lives. What was He saying?
He told them, “You shall know the truth, and the truth shall set you free” John 8:32). In a nutshell, Jesus wanted the leaders to know He was the Truth He spoke of. He offered the freedom that can only come from God and Messiah. His truth delivers us from inner turmoil everyone experiences. He came to set humanity free from the bondage of sin. Sin eats away at everything: age, beauty, life, loved ones; even the earth, nature, creation, etc. Sin destroys everything in its path. It tears apart families, relationships, honesty and more. Ultimately, sin brought forth death. Even if you live a pleasant life with no regrets, no difficulties and nothing to complain about, sin will kill you like it kills everyone else. Jesus’ death on the cross, defeated sin and conquered the grave: He conquered death.
“It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery” (Galatians 5:1).
Want real freedom? Want God to break chains in your life? Need deliverance from things holding you back? Do you want to feel real fireworks in your life? Turn it over to Jesus today. It’ll be the best 4th of July ever! As the song, Amazing Grace (My Chains Are Gone) by Chris Tomlin goes,
“My chains are gone/I’ve been set free/My God my Savior has ransomed me/And like a flood His mercy reigns/Unending love, amazing grace.
God Bless! Be Free!
Sam