Truth and Freedom

 

2 Corinthians 3:17 (NET) - Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is present, there is freedom.

I write these words on the same day we inaugurate a new president.

There is all manner of pomp and circumstance.

There are flags, speeches, military bands… the works.

No doubt, many of the speeches and commentaries will include the concept of freedom.

But what does freedom mean?

According to the dictionary, one definition says it is the right to speak or act without hindrance.

Another states it is the absence of subjugation to a foreign or despotic power.

Still another says it is the state of not being incarcerated or enslaved.

But when it comes to being a Christian, we find that these definitions do not literally apply.

For example, we are not free to speak whatever happens to be on our minds.

James 1:26 (NET) - If someone thinks he is religious yet does not bridle his tongue, and so deceives his heart, his religion is futile.

Neither does the second definition apply.

Even Christ was brought before a foreign ruler.

John 18:33 (NET) - So Pilate went back into the governor’s residence, summoned Jesus, and asked him, “Are you the king of the Jews?

Christians have even been incarcerated.

Paul wrote several of his letters while in prison.

Even history reminds us that many Christians have been imprisoned for their faith.

Despite the definitions, freedom for Christians is a real and tangible thing.

John 8:31-32 (NET) - Then Jesus said to those Judeans who had believed him, “If you continue to follow my teaching, you are really my disciples and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.

Freedom, real freedom, can be found in truth.

It can be found in the truth of the teachings of Christ.

Understanding truth, the truth of His teachings, is what sets us free.

Those who are imprisoned for Christ are free.

Those who are subject to foreign powers are free.

Yes, even those who bridle their tongues are free.

Blessings,

Jim Pokorny

The Other Brother Jim

Look for me at https://faithfulfeetteam.blogspot.com/ on Friday, February 5, 2021.

I will be back here on Friday, February 12, 2020