"Holding on to Freedom", John 8.31-32, Thames Valley churches of Christ

1. The Real Deal

“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 NIV11)

 

Handy definition to being a disciple - and a Christian. 

 

There is a kind of “belief” is not the same as real discipleship. Theory is not adequate. It’s about trusting Jesus and following his way of life. It’s not about perfection, but loyalty and faithfulness. 

 

What stops us from holding us on to the teachings of Jesus?

• Doubts about the Bible?
• Weariness?
• Self-dependance instead of depending on God?

2. Jail Break

    “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.”     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. Now a slave has no permanent place in the family, but a son belongs to it forever. So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.” (John 8:31–36 NIV11)

 

Jesus is the truth (Jn 14:1-6). He is the only one who can set us free. It’s not about how we feel, but our state before God. Sin is the big problem, and Jesus has the solution. We must allow him to help us. Do we see our sin as something we need to be freed from? Sin gives short-term gratification, but has long-term consequences.

 

The grace of Jesus is displayed in that he reveals our need for forgiveness and provides the means for forgiveness.

 

Thank you for listening to this podcast. You can find more episodes in our feed. Our web site is http://www.tvcoc.org. 

 

Please add your comments on this week’s topic. We learn best when we learn in community. 

 

Do you have a question about the Bible or the Christian faith? Is it theological, technical, practical? Send us your questions or suggestions. Here’s the email: tvcochrist@gmail.com.

 

Thanks again for listening. Have a super day.

 

God bless,

 

Malcolm

 

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