Have you ever felt trapped?
Maybe not physically trapped. But, we’ve probably all had times in our lives when we felt stuck in our circumstances.
Spiritually, when we were separated from Christ, we were also trapped. We were trapped in our sin, and stuck in a cycle of shame and fear.
But we have freedom in Christ! That heavy burden of guilt and condemnation has been lifted from us, and our sins are covered by God’s grace.
What is Freedom in Christ?
The freedom we find in Christ stands in stark contrast with the bondage of sin we experience apart from Jesus.
Freedom in Christ means your value is not determined by your achievements or failures, but by the unwavering love of Jesus. You are no longer defined by the world’s standards, but by the truth that you are a cherished child of God.
As we look at freedom in Christ Bible verses, we see a common theme. Our freedom is purely the result of Jesus’s work on the cross on our behalf. It is not something that we earn.
The lost enjoy forever the horrible freedom they have demanded. - C.S. Lewis
In this Christian quote about freedom, Lewis describes the tendency for people to try an seize their own personal freedom. But, freedom in Christ means we surrender our own will and become dependent on Christ, trusting Him with our whole lives.
Bible Verses About Freedom in Christ
The Bible is filled with this truth. Here are 8 Bible verses about freedom in Christ.
Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free. - John 8:32
This verse about freedom doesn’t just mean intellectual “knowing.” It means you know in your heart, the very core of your being. When you know the truth of Who God is and what He has done for you, that truth will set you free from sin and death.
So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed. - John 8:36
Sin usually promises us freedom and joy, but it deceives us. Instead of giving us freedom, it controls us until we are trapped in our sin and disbelief. However, true freedom comes only from Christ and what He did for us on the cross. He sets us free from our sin and promises eternal life with Him.
But now that you have been set free from sin and have become slaves of God, the benefit you reap leads to holiness, and the result is eternal life. - Romans 6:22
Instead of reaping shame, guilt, and death because of our sin, we get a completely different result when we surrender our lives to Jesus. Instead, we benefit by receiving holiness and eternal life! Our lives are to be so dependent on God, that we grow in holiness and obedience to Him.
Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit who gives life has set you free from the law of sin and death. - Romans 8:1-2
To truly meditate on what scripture says about life and freedom in Christ, take time to read all of Romans 8. As we struggle with our human condition, as sinful people in a messy world, these opening verses provide comfort: “there is now no condemnation.” None.
If you are in Christ Jesus, He will not condemn you. His sacrifice on the cross covers our sins. His death is offered as payment for our sins. He paid our debt.
Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. - 2 Corinthians 3:17
There is freedom! Yes, freedom from sin. But also, freedom from guilt, shame, fear, and hopelessness. Instead, the Holy Spirit offers us love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, gentleness, faithfulness, and self-control. What a glorious, miraculous exchange!
It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery. - Galatians 5:1
Christ set us free. It won’t always be easy, but we need to stand firm in that truth. Remind yourself of the freedom you’ve been given, and how you’ve been rescued from sin and death, so you don’t fall back into the trappings of sin.
You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love. - Galatians 5:13
Our freedom in Christ isn’t an opportunity to indulge in the things that got us trapped in the first place. It’s also not a chance to focus on ourselves. Ultimately, isn’t about us. It’s about Jesus and what He did.
Rather, keep the focus on Jesus and on others. Serve and share with His love.
Live as free people, but do not use your freedom as a cover-up for evil; live as God’s slaves. - 1 Peter 2:16
We can never use our freedom to excuse or protect evil. We cannot justify sinful acts. Rather, we must stand firm against evil in this world, pursue justice, and advocate for others like Jesus did for us.
How Freedom in Christ Helps Overcoming Challenges
When you have freedom in Christ, scripture reveals a new life of peace and wisdom, even during challenges. You can rest in the assurance found in God’s Word.
And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. - Romans 8:28
When you experience freedom in Christ, daily life changes. Even when challenges arise, you can have confidence that the Lord is faithful and will work all things out for good.
Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light. - Matthew 11:28-30
As you walk in your freedom in Christ, hardship and burdens can be lifted off your shoulders and unto Christ.
Conclusion
These Bible verses about freedom in Christ truly transform the way we live. Living our lives dependent on Him gives us hope, peace, and freedom.
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