Set Free!

March 21, September 30, April 27, July 4, August 10, and September 16 all have something in common. They are the dates Namibia, Botswana, Sierra Leone, the U.S., Ecuador, and Papua New Guinea celebrate their independence, the day their countries and citizens received their freedom.

Well…their political freedom.

In John 8:32, Jesus says “If you hold to my teachings you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”

Of course, Jesus was not referring to freedom from one political entity ruling over another. He was explaining that all people are slaves to sin, unable to break the bonds of sin on their own. Only by believing the truths He shared, believing in Him as God’s Son, and living in the Word, can we be liberated from condemnation and death. He was talking about spiritual freedom.

Namibia, Botswana, Sierra Leone, the U.S., Ecuador, Papua New Guinea and 189 other countries are politically independent. But millions of people throughout the world have not had the opportunity to become spiritually free. They haven’t heard the truth, do not recognize Jesus Christ as their Savior. Barriers still exist that prevent them from hearing or reading Scripture in their own languages.

Living in a free country is a privilege. We give thanks for the many blessings we enjoy and those who have been willing to defend our independence. But our earthly life is brief. Only spiritual freedom grounded in faith in Jesus Christ helps us cope with the challenges we face daily and assures us of eternal life in God’s heavenly kingdom.

Our nation declared its independence 245 years ago. As we celebrate this Fourth of July, let’s not forget that a more important freedom was won through Christ’s death and resurrection 2,000 years ago. You can bring this life-changing truth to people around the world. Put God’s Word in their hands!