FROM THE DAWGHOUSE…
Understanding Biblical Freedom
In a world where the concept of freedom is often linked to autonomy, self-expression, and the absence of restrictions, the idea of Biblical freedom stands out as fundamentally different. Biblical freedom isn’t about doing whatever we want; it’s about being set free to live extraordinary lives as we were created to live – according to God’s design and purpose. This kind of freedom brings true liberation and fulfillment that no worldly freedom can offer.
In a recent session at Forge, Pastor Pete shared that Biblical freedom begins with the recognition that apart from Christ, humanity is in bondage to sin. Jesus Himself declared, “Truly, truly, I say to you, everyone who practices sin is a slave to sin” (John 8:34). This slavery isn’t just about moral failings or bad habits; it’s a spiritual condition that affects every aspect of life. Sin distorts our desires, enslaves our will, and separates us from the holy and loving God who created us.
But the good news of the gospel is that Jesus came to set us free. He proclaims, “So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed” (John 8:36). This freedom is not just a legal declaration but a transformative reality. Through faith in Jesus, we are liberated from the penalty and power of sin, and we are empowered to live in the freedom of righteousness.
One of the most common misunderstandings about Biblical freedom is the idea that it means freedom to sin. The apostle Paul confronts this misconception head-on in his letter to the Romans: “What then? Shall we sin because we are not under law but under grace? By no means!” (Romans 6:15). Instead, Paul explains that being set free from sin means becoming slaves to righteousness, leading to holiness and eternal life (Romans 6:18-22).
In Christ, we are no longer compelled to follow our sinful nature. We are given the Holy Spirit, who empowers us to live in a way that pleases God. This doesn’t mean we will live perfectly, but it does mean we have the freedom to resist sin and choose righteousness. Biblical freedom is therefore not the absence of constraints but the joyful submission to the will of God, which leads to true peace and joy.
Another key aspect of Biblical freedom that Pastor Pete shared is that it is not just about personal liberation; it’s about being freed for something greater. Paul writes in Galatians, “For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another” (Galatians 5:13). True freedom in Christ manifests in love and service to others, reflecting the heart of Jesus, who “came not to be served but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many” (Matthew 20:28).
Biblical freedom is rooted in the truth. Jesus said, “You will know the truth, and the truth will set you free” (John 8:32). The truth of the gospel frees us from the lies of the enemy, the deceitfulness of sin, and the emptiness of worldly pursuits. It sets us free to live in the light of God’s truth, where we find our identity, purpose, and destiny.
No doubt, Biblical freedom is a precious gift that comes at a great cost – the blood of Jesus Christ.
As Christians, we are called to live in this freedom daily, rejecting the false promises of worldly freedom and embracing the true liberty that comes from being children of God. In doing so, we not only experience the fullness of life that Jesus promised but also become witnesses to the world of the liberating power of the gospel.
Let us, therefore, stand firm in the freedom we have in Christ and live lives that reflect the glorious freedom of the children of God.
To the Kingdom
Joe Bouch
