Jesus is Essential
John 8:31–36: Then Jesus said to those Jews who believed Him, “If you abide in My word, you are My disciples indeed. And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.” They answered Him, “We are Abraham’s descendants, and have never been in bondage to anyone. How can You say, ‘You will be made free’?” Jesus answered them, “Most assuredly, I say to you, whoever commits sin is a slave of sin. And a slave does not abide in the house forever, but a son abides forever. Therefore if the Son makes you free, you shall be free indeed.
Jesus explained that the difference between spiritual freedom and bondage is a matter of whether one is a son or a servant. The servant may live in the house, but he is not a part of the family; and he cannot be guaranteed a future. (Jesus may have had Isaac and Ishmael in mind here.)
“Whosoever keeps on practicing sin [literal translation] is the servant of sin.” These religious leaders would not only die in their sins, but they were right then living in bondage to sin! 1
Walking with Jesus
Are you truly living as a disciple of Jesus? It depends on your answer. “Are you abiding in His word?” Are you abiding (fasten to a lifeline) in His word? Then you will know His truth, and then you will experience the freedom that a child has with his father. All His love, encouragement, correction, and protection. True freedom is found in a relationship. Live as His child, and honor Him with your life and decisions.
For you are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus. Galatians 3:26
A nation may offer freedom to fight for, but Christ gives freedom to live for.
Praying
Lord, thank You for always giving me Your truth that liberates me to serve You freely.
1. Wiersbe, W. W. (1996). The Bible exposition commentary. Wheaton, IL: Victor Books.
