Break Free!

Many of you have seen the epic movie "Braveheart," the dramatized story of Sir William Wallace of Scotland, played by Mel Gibson. One of my favorite scenes is at the end when Wallace is being executed, and he is given the chance to utter his last words. Wallace summons every ounce of strength to boldly proclaim that for which he lays down his life... freedom!

Americans are somewhat familiar with the concept of freedom. After all, we live in the land of the free, right? However, I think the two prominent errors we see lived out in our country, is prevalent in the Body of Christ as well. We are either trying to take away the freedom of others, or we are using our freedom for selfish gain and to abuse the grace by which we live.

I read this quote this morning by David Edwards, "When purity is reduced to legalism, our hearts are no longer free; they are focused more on maintaining rituals and customs than on living out a genuine character change."

I wonder what our churches would be like if this statement really rang true? It seems that all too often we go from one set of shackles to another. If our desire to obey God is not rooted in a motivation of gratitude and love, we miss the point of the death and resurrection of Christ. Living under the law cheapens the work of Christ whether it is the Mosaic Law, your own law, or somebody else's. I am amazed at the vastness of legalism in the Body of Christ. When will we finally realize that we can never be loved or accepted by God any more than He already does? A few verses come to mind when I think about this topic:

"It was for freedom that Christ set us free; therefore keep standing firm and do not be subject again to a yoke of slavery."

-- Galatians 5:1

"So Jesus was saying to those Jews who had believed Him, 'If you continue in My word, then you are truly disciples of Mine; and you will know the truth, and the truth will make you free.'

'So if the Son makes you free, you will be free indeed.'"

-- John 8:31-32, 36

Once we begin to live in true freedom, it is then when we live the way God intended, not to please our flesh.

"Everything is permissible"—but not everything is beneficial. "Everything is permissible"—but not everything is constructive. Nobody should seek his own good, but the good of others."

-- 1 Corinthians 10:23-24 (NIV)

When we enjoy our freedom, we are set free not to do as we please and satisfy ourselves, but rather to do good for others' benefit. I have two important questions for you today:

1. Are you truly free?

2. If so, what are you doing with freedom?