Introduction:
For many of the Jews, they believed the Law was what set them free and liberated them. However, what they did not know was that the Law was pointing toward Jesus the whole time. Jesus would ultimately fulfill the Law. Many of the Jews at the time held onto the Law rather than Jesus. For the Jews who believe Jesus, that truth sets them free. Here is what Jesus had to say to the Jews that believed in him regarding their freedom.
John 8:31-34
“So Jesus said to the Jews who had believed him, ‘If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples, and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.’ They answered him, ‘We are offspring of Abraham and have never been enslaved to anyone. How is it that you say, you will become free?’ Jesus answered them, ‘truly, truly, I say to you, everyone who practices sin is a slave to sin.’”
Think about it:
Earlier, to this same group of Jews, Jesus said, “I told you that you would die in your sins, for unless you believe that I am he you will die in your sins.” This is the truth that will set them free. Jesus said “unless you believe,” then you will die in your own sins. You and I are chained to the consequences of our sins and the only outcome of sin is that we will die and are separated from God forever. That is unless we believe in Jesus as Lord. The truth of who Jesus is sets free everyone who believes. That is what Jesus means when he said, “the truth will set you free.” This is an encouragement for us to share this truth with others. We get caught up in what people will say or if we will be judged for our faith. Yet the very message of truth is freedom. You and I must take the message and deliver it to those who need the same freedom we have experienced.
Take away:
The truth will set you free.
Personal reflection:
When you share the gospel, do you see it as a message of freedom? Why or why not?