Saturday October 1, 2016

Purveyor Of True Independence

- JOHN 8:30-36

Key Verse:

"If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed" (John 8:36).

Freedom is a universal pursuit of people everywhere. It is the desire to be allowed to lead an unlettered life; to aspire to attain the highest goals possible without hindrance; to have the liberty to chart the course of one's life. Many people go the extra mile not just to obtain freedom for themselves, but also to defend it. They amass great wealth in the quest for financial and economic freedom; set limits to prevent any infringement, all in the search of political and social freedom. Yet, lasting freedom comes from neither political nor socio-economic well-being. It comes only from Jesus Christ. Jesus was challenged by the Jewish religious leaders. As He spoke eloquently and convincingly, many people believed that He was the Messiah from God. But He told them that it was not enough to believe; they should also walk in the truth of His words if they must be free. By this, Christ was explaining matters of spiritual significance to them, but unfortunately, they were gripped by a patriotic zeal and belief that they were citizens of a free nation. He then told them that so long as they commit sin, they were slaves to sinful habits and lifestyle, hence, shut out of the kingdom of God. The only way they could be admitted into His Kingdom was through the Son of God Himself, who alone has power to set them free from sin. Jesus is the perfect gift of God to mankind. He alone can rescue one from the slavery of sin and grant true freedom and enduring independence. As the Truth personified, He presents God's perfect standard of measurement for what is right. Only this can free one from the domination, control and enslavement of sin. One can never fulfill God's purpose and plan for his life until he allows Jesus to break the power of sin in his life. Only then will he be able to lead a peaceful, happy life of true freedom and secure a place in God's kingdom.

Thought for the day: True freedom is not the right to live as you please, but to please God at all times.

Bible Reading in one Year: SONG 5-6