[357 words]
In 1776, the 13 British colonies in North America protested the tyranny of the king of England and engaged in a struggle that gave birth to a brand new republic. The infant nation soon adopted that now famous document known as the Declaration of Independence. We celebrate this emancipation every July 4th.
Almost 2,000 years ago, the Lord Jesus cried out on the cross, “It is finished” (John 19:30), proclaiming the believer’s “declaration of independence.” All of humanity was under the tyranny of sin and death. But Christ, the sinless One, took our place on Calvary and died for each of our sins. Having satisfied God’s righteous demands, He now sets free for eternity all who trust in and obey Him.
Paul wrote, “Christ has redeemed us from the curse of the law, having become a curse for us” (Gal. 3:13). Earlier in Scripture we read the inspired words of the apostle, “There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus…For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has made me free from the law of sin and death” (Rom. 8:1-2). Thus, those who have been redeemed and set free are urged to “stand fast therefore in the liberty by which Christ has made us free” (Gal. 5:1). Also we are reminded never to use this liberty as a license to indulge sin in our lives, but rather in service for good (Gal. 5:13).
Jesus has set us free to live our lives to the fullest with peace of heart and joy of soul. Jesus has set us free to be fruitful and serve with great zeal. Jesus has set us free to show the world what true liberty, love, and life is all about.
We should thank God for the freedom we enjoy as United States citizens. But even greater than that, we should praise Him for the eternal freedom that is found in Christ! And this we should celebrate every Sunday and live it every day.
“So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed” (John 8:36).
Edd Sterchi
Broadway church of Christ
Campbellsville, KY