Jesus told a group of people that were following Him that they really needed to be set free from their old ways, habits, and bondages, in John 8:32-36. It was not enough for them to acknowledge that His preaching and teaching were true, but it needed to have a personal application and have a positive effect in their lives. In verse 32 He said, “And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.” Now the truth can be defined as both the written word of God (the Bible) and, perhaps even more importantly, the living word of God which is none other than He Himself! In John 14:6 He identified Himself as “the way, the truth, and the life” So coming to know Him is coming to a place where we can know real freedom. However these people did not want to acknowledge that they were in bondage citing their religious connections, but Jesus said “whoever commits sin is a slave of sin.” Literally sin is missing the mark, so what is causing you to miss the mark of His freedom obtained by His righteousness? This bondage may be the result of things committed or omitted in your life; it may be an uncontrolled addiction, habit, or lifestyle, it could be uncontrolled anger, a “loose” tongue, or ill feelings, yes it could be any of the things summed up in 1 John 2:15-17 as, “the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life” which covers pretty much the whole gamut. Jesus said “Therefore if the Son makes you free, you shall be free indeed.” Remember He is the truth that sets us free bringing such renewal to our life fulfilling Ezekiel 36:26 “I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you.
A new heart and freedom
By Rose Hill
Jesus said, I promise to set you free.
The people with the Lord did not agree.
They could not see that with sin they were bound,
And that truth in their hearts could not be found.
This truth of God’s word they needed to hear,
When they take this to heart salvation is near.
God’s promise is a new heart He will give,
In receiving this gift they begin to live.
Scripture quotations are from the New King James Version copyright 1982 by Thomas Nelson Co. used by permission.