“Stand fast therefore in the liberty by which Christ has made us free, and do not be entangled again with a yoke of bondage” (Gal. 5:1). Paul gave this admonition to Gentile Christians who were being influenced to be circumcised and keep the Law of Moses. They were already free in Christ and weren’t to allow anyone to bring them into bondage.
The freedom Jesus offers is unlike any other kind of freedom we can enjoy. His liberty is spiritual in nature. Because of this, it is not understood or appreciated by those who are worldly minded. Consider some things from which only Christ can set us free.
Sin. “Jesus answered them, ‘Most assuredly, I say to you, whoever commits sin is a slave of sin… Therefore if the Son makes you free, you shall be free indeed’” (John 8:34, 36). Our personal sin brings us into bondage. We don’t have the power to wrestle free, nor the money to purchase our freedom. Jesus is the only One who can set us free from the bondage of sin. This happens when we obey the gospel (Rom. 6:17-18).
Guilt. Not only does Jesus set us free from the bondage of sin, His blood washes away these sins (Rev. 1:5). We are now at peace with God, having been washed, sanctified, and justified (1 Cor. 6:11).
Fear. Jesus sets us free from the eternal consequences of our sins. “There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear, because fear involves torment…” (1 John 4:18). There is nothing to fear if we are reconciled with God (Heb. 13:6). God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind (2 Tim. 1:7).
Ignorance. Jesus came to bring the light of God’s truth to a world of darkness. He bears witness to the truth that sets us free (John 8:31-32; 18:37). We can know God’s will if we follow the teachings and example of Jesus.
Teachings and Traditions of Men. “Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light” (Matt. 11:28-30). Jesus promised rest to those who were laboring under the oppressive traditions and commandments of the Jewish leaders. Jesus taught men to keep God’s law, but He exposed and rejected the traditions and commandments of men (Matt. 15:3-9). If we abide in our Lord’s word, we will find the truth that sets us free (John 8:31-32). If we follow the commandments and philosophies of men, we will find bondage.
People today seek to bind on us more than Christ has bound. Sabbatarians seek to bind the Sabbath Day (Saturday) observance on people. Others believe the Feast Days of the Old Law must be kept today. Many believe Christian should tithe today. We are complete in Christ and must not be judged by these old restrictions (Col. 2:10, 16-17). Even some brethren seek to bind their conscience on others. We are to keep matters of personal conviction to ourselves (Rom. 14:5).
Conclusion: Jesus is the true Emancipator. He defeated our spiritual enemy and can deliver us from his bondage. Freedom in Christ is a wonderful blessing to be embraced and enjoyed. We are to stand fast in this freedom and give our lives in service to our Lord.