John 8:34-36

“So if the Son makes you free, you will be free indeed.” vs. 36

As we pause in our march through the season of Pentecost to remember the Reformation of the 16th century, it’s important to acknowledge the message of freedom that galvanized the reformers in their struggle with the papacy. So much of what the papacy had promoted in its unholy partnership with the Holy Roman Empire had enabled religious and political leaders to create an enslaved church. Popes and bishops worked with the emperors to control the people and keep them in line.

When the reformers realized from their study of scripture that this bondage was antithetical to the teachings of Jesus they began to proclaim a powerful message of freedom that was for all the people. Of course they were resisted by the Papacy and many of them were declared heretics and some were put to death.

Centuries later believers continue to cherish that message of freedom that brought reformation to the Church, and even ultimately to the Papacy itself. The gospel declares that in Christ God has loved the world and that all flesh has been set free from the captivity of sin and death.

So how shall we live as free people? Freedom is difficult and often people have found it easier to just obey rules. It’s best to say that the new freedom in Christ has nothing to do with doing, and everything to do with being! We are free to be! And that’s the gospel truth!

Thought for the Day: How do I experience freedom in my being?