Freedom

Freedom in Christianity starts with internal freedom which is spiritual freedom. The Christian value of freedom is real freedom. It is freedom from sin and wrongdoing, it is freedom from addictions, bad habits, negative feelings and thoughts. As such, Christians need to turn away from temptation, harmful relationships, bad influences and all that would corrupt them. The Holy Bible gives us the key to this freedom. In it Jesus Christ says to us “If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” (John 8: 31-32) Jesus further teaches us that “everyone who sins is a slave to sin” but “if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed” (John 8: 34 & 36). Therefore obeying the teachings of Jesus Christ the Son of God gives us true freedom which is freedom from wrongdoing and spiritual corruption. The teachings of Jesus Christ and God’s commandments may seem like restrictions to freedom but they actually guide freedom in the same that the banks of a river guide it’s flow and prevent the river from overflowing and forming a swamp. God’s commandments guide us so that we don’t use our freedom to harm others, our community or ourselves.

This contrasts with some people’s definition of freedom which is to be able to whatever one chooses to do. Yet absolute freedom isn’t possible nor is it fruitful because some may use absolute freedom to impose upon the rights or freedoms of others, or to break God’s commandments or to break public order laws laid down by governments for the safety and peace of others. Also, is a person really free when he or she lives without restraint doing whatsoever he or she wishes? Or is he or she dominated by his or hers lusts and desires?

As mentioned above, real freedom in Christianity starts with spiritual freedom. The Holy Bible tells us of the Christian value of freedom and says, “For you have been called to live in freedom, my brothers and sisters. But don’t use your freedom to satisfy your sinful nature. Instead, use your freedom to serve one another in love. For the whole law can be summed up in this one command: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.'” This applies to our families, friends, community and our society.

A Christian who is freed from sin internally, can use external freedom in the right way. For example, the one who is free from hatred, greed and violence can help and encourage others. But a person who is enslaved by selfishness or cruelty may hurt others with his or her freedom. The Holy Bible teaches us, “let the Holy Spirit guide your lives. Then you won’t be doing what your sinful nature craves.” The Christian value of freedom involves self control which is a fruit of the Holy Spirit and it involves using freedom to serve and help others through love which is also a fruit of the Holy Spirit.

It is God’s will that everyone be free. God created Adam and Eve with a free will and they were free to either obey God or not. Yet freedom involves accountability and responsibility. The Holy Bible advises us in Deuteronomy. 30:15-20, “See, I have set before you today life and good, death and evil … I call heaven and earth as witnesses today against you, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing; therefore choose life, that both you and your descendants may live, that you may love the Lord your God, that you may obey His voice, and that you may cling to Him, for He is your life”