301 N Loop 250 W, Midland, TX 79703

The Problem With Freedom

Independence day

at crestview

 
 
 
 
 
 
 

1. FREEDOM IS COMPLICATED.

“To the Jews who had believed Him, Jesus said, ‘If you hold to My teaching, you are really My disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.’” John 8:31-32 (NIV)

  • Our culture’s definition of freedom:

The ability to do whatever you choose without constraints.

2. THE ULTIMATE ENEMY OF FREEDOM.

“They answered Him, ‘We are Abraham’s descendants and have never been slaves of anyone. How can you say that we shall be set free?’ Jesus replied, ‘Very truly I tell you, everyone who sins is a slave to sin.’” John 8:33-34 (NIV)

  • The ultimate enemy of freedom is sin. 

Two Ways Sin is an Enemy of Freedom:

  • Disobeying our Creator–nobody tells me what to do.

  • Sin is self-centeredness–my needs first.

3. HOW CAN WE BE SET FREE?

“So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.” John 8:36 (NIV)

“Your father Abraham rejoiced at the thought of seeing My day; he saw it and was glad. ‘You are not yet fifty years old,’  they said to Him, ‘and You have seen Abraham!’ ‘Very truly I tell you,’ Jesus answered, ‘before Abraham was born, I am!’ At this, they picked up stones to stone Him, but Jesus hid Himself, slipping away from the temple grounds.” John 8:56-59 (NIV)

MY NEXT STEP TODAY IS: 

  • __________________________________

This week’s Reading Plan and blog/podcast:

  • YouVersion® Bible App Reading Plan:
    “Freedom is Yours” (7 days)   

  • Blog and Podcast: Revisit “What Will You Do with Freedom?” (July 4, 2021)

July 2nd 2023Dr. John Gerlach