ATP Q#4
Q: What does it mean to have freedom in Christ?
A: Sin makes demands, whereas grace gives choice. Freedom that comes from submitting to Christ removes the bonds that our sinful nature puts on us (John 8:31-38). We do have to exercise that freedom, and not allow sin to entangle or enslave us again (which can happen.). It is a contrast between living under the law and living under God’s grace (Acts 13:38-39; 2 Corinthians 3). Law points out sin and gives consequences, thus condemning us. Grace points out redemption given to us by the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, thus freeing us. The law was written in stone, whereas grace writes God’s law of love on our hearts, giving us a heart that loves.
Benefits of this freedom include a process that make us holy (set apart, like Jesus, important, valued by God, given a purpose – Romans 6, 8), and gives us life that lasts eternally. Another benefit is adoption as sons and daughters of God, with all the rights and privileges that come with (Galatians 4, 5). This gives us the opportunity to love others, serving them, which is a far greater blessing than serving the desires of our flesh. The biggest benefit is the free access we have to God’s throne through prayer, to receive His grace and mercy, which we so desperately need (Ephesians 3). Freedom is about living in the light of truth, sharing the love and honour of God to others (1 Peter 2).
John 8:31-38 – The truth from God, demonstrated in Jesus Christ, set us free from slavery to sin. “If the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.”
Acts 13:38-39 “Let it be known to you therefore, brothers, that through this man forgiveness of sins is proclaimed to you, and by him everyone who believes is freed from everything from which you could not be freed by the law of Moses.”
Romans 6 – Freedom in Christ has great benefits. “Now that you have been set free from sin and have become slaves of God, the benefit you reap leads to holiness, and the result is eternal life.” You have a choice between slavery to sin, or slavery to God’s righteousness. Slavery to sin leads to eternal death, whereas slavery to God leads to eternal life.
Romans 8:1-11 Freedom in Christ means you can no longer be condemned for your sin. No one can look down on you or judge you, as long as you continue to confess your sins to God, maintaining a blameless life. “For the law of the Spirit of life has set you free in Christ Jesus from the law of sin and death.”
2 Corinthians 3 – The law of God (love) is written on our hearts rather than on stone. The veil of concealment is lifted that we may see the glory of God. “Where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.”
Galatians 4 – Under Christ we are no longer enslaved to the law and our sinful nature, but have become adopted children of God, with its rights and privileges. “Now you … are children of promise.” Why would you go back to what you did when you were enslaved to sin?
Galatians 5:1-15 – We have been given a great freedom through Christ. Do not abuse that freedom. “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.” Serving one another is a far greater blessing than serving the desires of the flesh within.
Ephesians 3:1-13 – We have been given first-hand access to the throne of God to receive the mercy and grace we need! “In him and through faith in him we may approach God with freedom and confidence.”
1 Peter 2:15-17 “For this is the will of God, that by doing good you should put to silence the ignorance of foolish people. Live as people who are free, not using your freedom as a cover-up for evil, but living as servants of God. Honor everyone. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the emperor.”