Creator, Father, King #202

You will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.

IN MANY WAYS, AMERICA’s history is one of freedom, promise, and hope. This country has been a place of refuge and liberty for millions of people.

But America’s story also includes a terrible legacy of oppression. Until the ratification of the Constitution’s thirteenth amendment in 1865, slavery was a legal, thriving industry in many states. Thankfully, the Civil War helped end this abominable practice.

In John 8, Jesus spoke of a different type of slavery as he taught in Jerusalem. “You are truly my disciples if you remain faithful to my teachings,” he said. “And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free” (John 8:31-32).

Jesus’ audience vehemently objected to this statement, proudly clinging to their Jewish heritage. “We are descendants of Abraham,” they retorted. “We have never been slaves to anyone. What do you mean, ‘You will be set free’?” (verse 33).

Apparently, they had forgotten Israel’s lengthy captivity in Egypt, and the fact that, by Jesus’ time, Palestine had suffered under foreign rule for most of the previous 750 years. (Talk about selective memory!)

Jesus, though, wasn’t referring to physical slavery. He was describing spiritual bondage.

“Everyone who sins is a slave of sin,” he continued. “A slave is not a permanent member of the family, but a son is part of the family forever. So if the Son sets you free, you are truly free” (verses 34-36).

What’s It Mean?

All humans were born into the bondage of sin, obeying the ungodly passions and desires of our fallen nature.

Sin is a master liar. It promises the world to us: Pleasure! Freedom! Be your own boss! Yet all the while, it imprisons our hearts in chains of spiritual captivity.

Jesus, however, came to liberate us with “the truth,” as today’s verse says. This truth is the gospel message—that God sent his Son into the world to break the power of sin (Romans 8:3) and offer eternal life to all who trust in Christ.

Second Peter 2:19 says, “You are a slave to whatever controls you.” If that is true, we need to be sure we serve the correct master. Look at Romans 6:22: “Now you are free from the power of sin and have become slaves of God.” (See also Ephesians 6:6.)

By becoming a slave to our gracious, loving God, you will be free!

Now What?

Read Romans 6 to learn how to become “dead to the power of sin and alive to God through Christ Jesus” (verse 11).

Did You Know?

The apostle Paul frequently used slavery analogies since the practice was so widespread in the Roman Empire.