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Title: Live Free
Date: Sep 25, 2008
Topic(s): Faith/Trust, Jesus, Salvation
Scripture: Galatians 5:13, Romans 6:1-14, John 14:6, Ephesians 2:1-2, John 8:31-36, John 17:17, 2 Corinthians 3:17-18, 1 Peter 2:16, John 8:34

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Growing up, I loved the story of Elsa in "Born Free." She was a lioness born in the wild, but her survival depended on conservationist Joy Adamson. Elsa could be released to "live free" only after a long process of compassion and training for both lion and human.

There's a similar story in our spiritual lives...except that we weren't "born free." We came into this world as slaves to sin. And it's only through the compassionate rescue of Jesus Christ that we can truly "live free."

What Does God Say?

In John 8:34, Jesus says, "' Truly, truly, I say to you, everyone who commits sin is a slave to sin" (ESV). Ephesians 2:1-2 lays it out like this: "And you were dead in the trespasses and sins in which you once walked, following the course of this world, following the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that is now at work in the sons of disobedience" (ESV).

That's where we started. However, Jesus came so that we didn't have to stay there. He is our rescuer, the One who transforms and rehabilitates us so that we can live in freedom.

Go back to John 8:31-36. "So Jesus said to the Jews who had believed in 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 commits sin is a slave to sin. The slave does not remain in the house forever; the son remains forever. So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed'" (ESV).

The keys to freedom come from Jesus, in knowing Him, abiding in His Word and living by the truth.

My Thoughts

Freedom and truth go together. Where will you find the truth? Read John 14:6 and 17:17 for the answer.

John 17 is Jesus' prayer for His followers (including you and me). As you read the chapter, jot down what you find about Jesus, the truth and everything that impacts your spiritual freedom.

Romans 6:1-14 also addresses our sin and how we're set free to live by grace. Read the passage and record the changes or transformation that takes place, and what Jesus does for us. What's the conclusion of how you are to "live free"?

My Part

Once we understand that Jesus sets us free, what are we supposed to do with our freedom? Well, it's really about change or transformation in two key areas:

• Read 2 Corinthians 3:17-18 and describe the transformation going on here. How do you see that in your own life?
• Look at Galatians 5:13 and 1 Peter 2:16. What's the common thread? How does this adjust the focus of your freedom? There's also a warning; what is it?

Take a moment today to thank Jesus for the freedom He gives you. Ask for His help in using that freedom to become more like Him and to serve others for His sake. Then jot down a few ways you can "live free" today and make them happen.

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