Jesus says, “So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed” (John 8.36).
True freedom is not simply an external condition but a spiritual reality found in Christ. The preceding passage carries implications for daily Christian living—freedom not as the world defines it, but as a life liberated from sin, fear, and bondage.
Jesus’ words in John 8 are spoken in the context of bondage to sin. In John 8:34, He says, “Everyone who practices sin is a slave to sin.” This echoes Paul’s teaching in Romans 6:16, where he writes that we are either slaves to sin, leading to death, or slaves to obedience, leading to righteousness. Through Christ’s sacrifice, we are released from this bondage (Romans 6:22). The believer is empowered by the Spirit to resist sin and walk in newness of life (Galatians 5:16).

True freedom is not merely the absence of sin but the presence of the Lord as we are being filled with the Spirit. In 2 Corinthians 3:17, Paul writes, “Where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.” This freedom is not permission to live according to the flesh but the ability to walk in righteousness through God’s power. Galatians 5:1 urges us to “stand firm” in the freedom Christ has given us, not returning to a yoke of slavery—whether to sin or burdens found within the law.
Freedom in Christ is not self-serving; it enables us to love and serve others. Galatians 5:13 reminds us, “You were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another.” Jesus Himself, though Lord of all, humbled Himself to serve (Philippians 2:5-7). Our freedom is a calling to reflect His nature, showing grace and compassion to those around us.
Living in freedom daily means embracing Christ’s redemption, resisting the enemy’s deceptions, and walking confidently in God’s truth. Jesus says in John 8:32, “You will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” The Word of God is the source of this truth, renewing our minds (Romans 12:2) and equipping us to stand firm (Ephesians 6:14). As we meditate on Scripture, we grow in our understanding of Christ’s victory, finding joy in the freedom He has secured for us.
Freedom in Christ is not a fleeting feeling—it is a permanent reality. It is freedom from sin, freedom through the Spirit, and freedom to serve in love. May we live each day with gratitude, remembering that in Christ, we are free indeed.
Living in freedom requires daily intentionality. It is a commitment to abide in Christ and immerse ourselves in His truth. Jesus tells His disciples in John 15:5, “Apart from me you can do nothing.” This freedom we have in Jesus is not about self-sufficiency but reliance on Him. As we draw near to Him through prayer, worship, and studying His Word, we become increasingly aware of the liberty He has shed upon us. This daily devotion strengthens our faith, reminding us that freedom is not a temporary feeling but a sustained reality grounded in the unchanging truth of God’s promises.
Additionally, walking in freedom means rejecting the lies and accusations of the enemy. Satan seeks to trap believers in fear and shame, causing them to doubt their identity in Christ. Yet, Scripture assures us that “There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus” (Romans 8:1). When we stand on this truth, we are free from the guilt of past sins and encouraged to move forward in righteousness. Ephesians 6:16 urges believers to take up “the shield of faith” to extinguish the fiery darts of the enemy. Faith in Christ’s victory enables us to live boldly and confidently, refusing to be enslaved by falsehoods.
Lastly, freedom is sustained through obedience. Jesus declares in John 14:15, “If you love me, you will keep my commandments.” Obedience is not bondage—it is the evidence of true freedom. The more we follow His ways, the more we experience the fullness of the abundant life He offers (John 10:10). As we obey, we walk in the Spirit, bearing fruit that reflects God’s character—love, joy, peace, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23). Our freedom is not passive; it is an active, daily surrender to God’s will, allowing His truth to shape every aspect of our lives.