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
What comes to your mind when you hear the word ‘freedom’? For some it might be the lyrics in our national anthem—“Land of the free” or the song, My Country, Tis of Thee—“Let freedom ring”. For me, it brings back a childhood memory of Aretha Franklin belting out the chorus of Think, “FREEDOM, FREEDOM, FREEDOM”, from my 8-track player. (Yes, wise guy—8-track player!)
In the news, lately, we have been hearing a lot about our “civil liberties” or “personal freedoms” in the context of the United States Constitution. But what about our freedoms in Christ? One of the most wonderful truths of the gospel is the freedom into which Jesus Christ brings us. Jesus was sent to proclaim freedom to the captives. (Isaiah 61:1) His truth will set us free. (John 8:32) Whomever the son sets free is free indeed. (John 8:36) Through Christ, we have been set free from the law of sin and death. (Romans 8:2) Through the blood of Jesus, everyone who believes is set free from every sin. (Acts 13:39) (Revelation 1:5) It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. (Galatians 5:1) The benefit of our freedom leads to holiness and the result is eternal life. (Romans 6:22) Jesus is even able to set us free from our infirmities! (Luke 13:12)
This past week, an email was sent out to all the Northwest ministers of our denomination. It was entitled Your Commitment to Sexual Purity. The email was an article written by Dr. Wayde Goodall, asserting that while so many are enslaved by the wiles of pornography, believers can walk in total freedom (CLICK HERE FOR LINK). Although I do not personally struggle with pornography, I was encouraged that I can walk in freedom with my struggle with food. Knowing that we CAN have freedom in Christ, confessing our struggle, being accountable to a close friend, and being aware of when we are the most vulnerable are four steps in the direction of freedom. A survey revealed the following responses to the question, “When are you most likely going to face temptation?”
• When you have not spent much time with God 81%
• When you have not had enough rest 57%
• When life is difficult 45%
• During times of change 42%
• After a significant spiritual victory 37%
• When life is going smoothly 30%
Perhaps you find yourself in bondage to pornography, gluttony, anger, unbelief, unforgiveness, greed, cynicism or some other struggle. As a Believer, freedom can be ours! LH
(Many of the posts on this website are accompanied by a “Just Say Know” Bible Study broken up into 5 days. The Study is designed to take you no more than 10 minutes each day. For a printable copy of this Bible study CLICK HERE.)
“Just Say Know” Bible Study
FREEDOM, FREEDOM, FREEDOM!
Day 1 Read Isaiah 61:1; Galatians 5:1; John 8:31-36; Luke 13:12; Acts 13:39; Revelations 1:5
One of the most wonderful truths of the gospel is the freedom into which Jesus Christ brings us.
- Based on the scriptures above, make a list of what the Bible has to say about our freedoms in Christ.
Day 2 Read Galatians 5:13-26
We have been given freedom in Christ. But freedom also comes with certain responsibilities.
- In verse 13, what are we commanded not to do with our freedom?
- What are we commanded to do in verse 16?
- How do you think we walk in the Spirit?
- What are some of the acts of the flesh? The Spirit?
Day 3 Read Romans 6:1-23
Through Jesus Christ we are no longer slaves to sin!
- According to verse 7, what do we have to do to be set free from sin?
- List any areas in which you struggle and still need to put to “death”.
- While we used to be slaves to sin, to what are we to be enslaved now?
- According to verse 17, what do we do to be enslaved to righteousness?
Day 4 Read 1 Corinthians 10:23-11:1; Romans 14:13-21
The quotation marks around the words ‘Everything is permissible’ imply it was a saying mentioned among Christians. Christian freedom is not freedom to do the permissible but to do what is beneficial for others.
- List at least one example of something that is permissible for you to do but may not be beneficial.
- What are some activities that you are free to do but might cause a brother to stumble.
- According to verse 19, what should be our goal?
Day 5 Read 1 Corinthians 9:19-23
In this passage, the Apostle Paul gives us a wonderful example of how the Christian should use his freedom.
- Why does Paul make himself a slave to everyone?
- How have you become “all things to all people” to reach the lost?
- Would you describe you Christian walk as “one who is in strict training”? Why or why not?
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