We just celebrated Independence Day! The 4th of July is historically associated with the Continental Congress declaring that the thirteen American colonies were no longer subject (and subordinate) to the monarch of Britain, King George III, and were now united, free, and independent states.
Freedom and unity. I can’t think of any more important pursuits than these. And yet, even in the greatest country on earth, some would say they are just as allusive as ever. Maybe it’s because we are looking to the wrong source.
When man depends on man to bring freedom and unity, he will be disappointed every time. Only God can bring true freedom; and unity will only happen when it begins in the hearts of men and women that are turned towards God.
Jesus said in John 8:31, “If you continue in My word, then you are truly my disciples, and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” He later goes on to say, “So if the Son sets you free, you are free indeed.”
The freedom Jesus is talking about is the freedom from sin … the source of all our problems. While sin promises liberty from rules and regulations, it always produces the opposite.
After testing negative for the first time in his life on a drug test, a man at Faith Mission said while giving all the glory to God, “I have never felt freer in my life.”
Sin enslaves us. Freedom in Christ means we are no longer bound by sin. However, it requires complete faith and obedience in and to Him.
When that happens in the hearts of true Christ-followers, unity is a byproduct. In Jesus’ priestly prayer in John 17, He prayed, “Holy Father, keep them in your name, so that they may be one just as we are.” He went on to say, “I am not asking on behalf of these alone, but also for those who will believe in Me through their word, that they all may be one.” He was praying for you and me. That we would be united.
Living in the United States of America, the “Land of the Free and the Home of the Brave”, does not guaranteed true freedom and unity. Yes, our constitution assures us of them, but only as far as man can provide. True freedom and unity comes through Christ. He is our liberator.
