Beyond the Bounds

Unarchive #11 at PYPA, IPC Immanuel Church, Banaswadi

Aug 18, 2024

Liberty refers to the state of being free from oppressive restrictions or control, allowing individuals to act, speak, or think according to their own choices. In religious contexts, liberty is not just about freedom from external constraints but also about liberation from internal limitations, such as sin or ignorance. True liberty is restored through Jesus Christ, who offers redemption and eternal freedom (Colossians 1:13-14). This divine gift, though irrevocable, calls for living under God's perfect law, empowering us to break free from our old, sinful nature and embrace our identity as God's children.

True Freedom in Christ; Now & Forever

'August 15' reminds every Indian of the nations independence.

A quest for a lost privilege has always been imbibed in mankind. Even an infant longs for freedom in terms of moving freely which further helps in physical and mental development. No doubt, at every point of our childhood/schooling we definitely have felt that 'why don't we have the freedom like the others/unbelievers'.

The Bible also reveals a search for freedom after it was lost. Firstly, the OT reveals, how one's shortcomings resulted in losing freedom. The 1st and 2nd chapter in Genesis gives our last glimpse of the freedom before it was ravaged by disobedience of Adam and Eve, whose long term side effects were both physical and spiritual. Secondly, we also see how loss of physical freedom was often tied to spiritual disobedience like worshipping false gods. The only answer to the lost freedom is the finished work of Jesus Christ. (Colossians 1;13-14: He has delivered us from the power of darkness and conveyed us into the kingdom of the Son of His love, in whom we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins.

Freedom has been a gift from our saviour, this gift is irrevocable. (Ephesians 2:8 and Romans 11:29). Freedom is also a celebration. Jesus says there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents. (Luke 15:10). However, freedom is not to escape from all forms of laws or rules, but to move out from imperfect law to the perfect law; that gives freedom (James 1:25). He has given us a freedom to choose or disregard it.

Why is it that we youngsters often live as though we are still in bondage? One reason being, we rebel against our Master and try going back to our old lives, because our new self still lives in the old fleshy nature, which draws us to sin.

Paul says to the Ephesians to "put off" the old self with its nature and put on "new self". Put of bitterness, rage and anger, and put on kindness, compassion and forgiveness. (Ephesians 4:22-32). The only way to bury the old self fully is by the power of the spirit who is the only source of strength. We strengthen the new nature by continually feeding on the word of God and through prayer we obtain the power we need to escape the desire of returning to the old life.

Hence, we need to realize our new positions as children of God, which is the only true freedom. Let this August be a reminder to celebrate true freedom in Christ: a deliverance from the bonds of slavery to sin- now and forevermore.

God bless you all.

Quote

“Either sin is with you, lying on your shoulders, or it is lying on Christ, the Lamb of God. Now if it is lying on your back, you are lost; but if it is resting on Christ, you are free, and you will be saved. Now choose what you want. "
Martin Luther

Weekend Wind-Downs

CONFIDENCE I Sanctus Real

Gyan

“The Final Triumph" by Zac Poonen is a detailed exposition of the Book of Revelation, offering a hopeful perspective on the ultimate victory of Christ over evil. Poonen interprets the apocalyptic visions and symbols in Revelation, explaining them in a way that is accessible to modern believers. He emphasizes the importance of faith, perseverance, and spiritual readiness in the face of trials. The book reassures Christians that despite the challenges and tribulations of life, God's plan will prevail, and believers will share in Christ's triumph. It serves as both a guide and an encouragement for living a victorious Christian life.