So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed. We know what freedom is. We understand that it has great value, and we cherish it above almost everything else. We celebrate it in song, we acknowledge it with multiple national holidays, and we thank God for it in our prayers. Freedom is a frequent topic for discussion— discussion that generally is lively and heavy with emotion. We certainly know what freedom is. Yet knowing what freedom is—and appreciating and acknowledging it—does not necessarily mean that we comprehend the fullness of its significance. Jesus talked to the Pharisees in John 8 about true freedom, but they were perplexed by his words. And why were they perplexed? Because they did not see in their own lives the need to be set free. They did not recognize their bondage. All they could see was the privilege they enjoyed as a special group of people who had the ability—and the right—to choose for themselves. Because they did not appreciate the gravity of their depraved circumstances, it was impossible for them to realize their need to be made truly free. Thus they lived deluded by the greatest deception of all: they were convinced that birthright—whether genealogical, social, or religious—granted favored spiritual status. Not only were they hopelessly lost and did know it, but they also passionately rejected any suggestion that they needed saving. In order to truly grasp the power and worth of freedom, it is essential to first recognize the desperate condition we would be in without it. It is necessary to accept in our hearts and minds the need we have for rescue. It is also vital to evaluate the high cost of our freedom, and to consider carefully the One who has paid for it. We know what freedom is, but do we understand it? –Ricky
