11/19/2024
We all long for freedom—freedom to be ourselves, follow our dreams, and live without constraints. But does pursuing freedom as our culture defines it—“follow your heart”—truly satisfy?
The Lie: Freedom Means Doing Whatever You Want
“The heart wants what it wants.” This phrase, made famous by Woody Allen, has become a cultural mantra, justifying actions based solely on personal desire. But where does this idea lead?
Too often, the pursuit of unrestrained self-expression ends in brokenness. Many public figures who seemed to have it all—wealth, fame, indulgence—found their lives marked by tragedy and emptiness. Why? Because freedom without boundaries often leads to enslavement by our own desires.
A Biblical Perspective on Freedom
The Bible offers a different vision of freedom. In 2 Peter 2:19, we read: “They promise them freedom, but they themselves are slaves of corruption. For whatever overcomes a person, to that he is enslaved.” True freedom isn’t indulging every whim; it’s being liberated from the chains of sin and self-centeredness.
Paul writes in Galatians 5:1: “For freedom Christ has set us free; stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery.” At first glance, this might sound like the cultural definition of freedom. But Paul clarifies in verse 13: “Do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love.”
Biblical freedom isn’t about self-gratification—it’s about living a life of love, guided by the Spirit instead of our fleshly desires.
Freedom and Love: Two Sides of the Same Coin
True freedom enables us to love others selflessly. Paul contrasts the “desires of the flesh” with walking by the Spirit in Galatians 5:16-17. While the flesh pulls us toward selfishness, jealousy, and anger, the Spirit produces love, joy, peace, and self-control (Galatians 5:19-23).
Interestingly, Paul connects freedom with love: “Do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love” (Galatians 5:13). This flips the cultural definition of freedom on its head. Love, not self-indulgence, is the highest expression of freedom.
The Path to True Freedom
If cultural freedom often leaves us empty, where can we find lasting freedom? Jesus answers in John 8:32: “You will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” A few verses later, He explains: “If the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed” (John 8:36).
True freedom is found in Jesus, who is “the way, the truth, and the life” (John 14:6). His truth frees us from sin, shame, and the endless chase for self-fulfillment.
The Challenge: Pursue Truth
Cultural freedom promises happiness but often delivers restlessness. In contrast, Jesus offers peace, purpose, and ultimate freedom.
So here’s the challenge: Pursue truth. Seek Jesus and discover the freedom only He can provide.
** I’m currently out of the country. Today’s blog features an excerpt from my sermon on Nov. 10, Live No Lies 6: Freedom vs. Freedom. To hear the full message, click here.
