Today we looked at Galatians 5:1, 13-14 which tells us more about our identity in Christ: that we are free. The Bible makes it clear that physical slavery (which sadly still exists in the world and which charities like One By One fight on a regular basis, offering an alternative to girls drawn into slavery and sex trafficking) is not the only form of slavery that exists; without Christ, we are slaves to sin. (Rom 6:16) Now, however, we are set free from this slavery and can live a new life which leads to righteousness and holiness. (Rom 6:22)
There is a huge difference between being slaves to sin and slaves to God. The devil is a liar who deceives and seeks our destruction (see John 8:44), whereas God is good and always has our good in mind. He wants us to live free from condemnation, shame and guilt, which is possible through Christ’s sacrifice on the cross for us.
The Galatian church had begun well by faith, but now had come to believe that circumcision was necessary for salvation. ‘Jesus and…’ will always lead to legalism and problems. We are called to live by faith and not by sight (2 Cor 5:7) and to rely on God for our salvation. Paul said, ‘through the Spirit we eagerly await by faith the righteousness for which we hope.’ (Gal 5:5) Our calling is now to serve others in love, fulfilling the commandment to love our neighbour as ourselves. The freedom God brings is not restrictive but opens the door to service and a life lived for others. We can be set free from sin, shame, addiction, fear and anxiety, but we are also set free to love and to serve, even as Jesus Himself demonstrated. (Phil 2:3-11)
