Jesus’ take on freedom

Doesn’t everyone want to be free?

Over the last few weeks I have been repeatedly reminded of how precious freedom is. The anniversary of the Berlin Wall’s collapse reminded me. Talking with a friend who lives in an oppressive region of India reminded me. Reading about Christians who have been jailed for their faith reminded me. Talking with a person who was recently arrested reminded me.

As far as I can tell, everyone wants to be free.

Not surprisingly, Jesus taught on the subject and in the context of his times, it was a hot topic. He himself, as well as the people He lived with, did not enjoy complete freedom under the oppressive rule of the Romans. Jesus, however, doesn’t appear to be too concerned about it. His hot button is spiritual freedom, and He has a clear opinion on the subject.

“If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth and the truth will set you free.” (John 8:31-32)

These verses are seldom quoted in their entirety. Usually, you just get the last few words from verse 32, “The truth will set you free.” It’s a great little sound bite and looks really profound when it’s inscribed, say, on the façade of a library. But what an irony: we misquote Jesus in order to define an institution all about reading comprehension.

Jesus understands the reality that freedom is more about what’s happening on the inside than the outside. Freedom is primarily about the heart and soul. It’s about overcoming the power of our thoughts, our longings, our imagination and our appetites to control us.

So how do we experience the internal freedom Jesus talks about? How can we be free from the things that seek to control us?

As Jesus states, teaching, discipleship and truth are clearly the keys. As we continue to read in the gospel of John, the answers to these crucial questions become even clearer: freedom comes as Jesus-followers learn, apply and abide in His teachings (see especially John 13 – 16). It’s all well and good to have fellowship with other followers, pray daily and worship on a regular basis, but if we have not learned and personalized the teaching of the Master, we will not enjoy the freedom He promises.

Learning godly truth is one of the central means by which the Spirit demolishes the stronghold of lies within our lives. And that’s why our sixth InTENtional for 10 discipline of learning is so important. Branson’s knowledge of the Word will not make us free. We have to get our own nose in the Bible, and in so doing, the power of lies begins to erode, and freedom flows like a fresh spring.

How are you doing, Covenant disciples? If you need a place to start—or start again—in this discipline, the gospel of John is a great place. Ask the Lord to teach you about freedom, and dig in each day. You will be amazed at what happens in your life.

With eyes fixed on Jesus,
Charlie