Galatians 5:1 – For freedom Christ has set us free; stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery.
One of the most beloved concepts human beings have is freedom. Most every nation has holidays dedicated to freedom, songs sung to freedom, and parades dedicated to freedom. Most people value freedom, but few people live free.
Why?
The entire book of Exodus is about God freeing His people from slavery so they could worship Him freely. In this way, freedom is two parts. First, you have to be set free. Then, you have to live free. In every age, God’s people are sadly prone to act like they did in Exodus. First, we grumble and complain about life. Second, we romanticize our past season of bondage as something we long for. Third, we forget our identity as God’s children free to live in God’s will. Fourth, we then choose something or someone else to replace God as the center of our life and object of our affection.
Jesus Christ came to give us an even greater exodus. Instead of conquering Pharaoh, Jesus conquered Satan. Instead of liberating people from physical slavery that lasts for a lifetime, Jesus set us free from spiritual slavery that lasts forever.
Once set free, we have to live free by living in relationship with Jesus by the Spirit. Our enemy that we must hold the line against, is religion based upon human works that lead to legalism. This “yoke” is a heavy burden of duty and things that people must do to become and remain right with God. This crushing weight from legalism wearies the soul until it weighs you down with guilt, burden, shame, striving, and an always-growing list of things to do.
Is there any legalism hindering living in the freedom Christ has for you?