Articles
The Grounding of Freedom
The Grounding of Freedom
In John 8, Jesus is having a major discussion with the Jewish people regarding his identity and the nature of his work. In verse 31-32 he gives the well-known statement, “You will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” In both its immediate context and in general, Jesus reveals that freedom only comes when it is grounded in truth. Consider, for example…
- The truth of Jesus’ word/work sets us free from the tyranny of sin. Jesus is “the way, the truth, and the life” and the only access to the Father (John 14:6). Paul will add that we are set free from sin when we are baptized into and join in a death like Jesus’ (Romans 6:1-7).
- Truth sets us free from the chains of lies. When we lie to someone, we become a slave to the deception. In order to maintain the charade, another lie must be told, then another, and another. Eventually the lie rules that relationship. The only way to be set free is to tell the truth. Yes, there are consequences, but once the truth comes to light, we are no longer held captive by the deception.
- Truth sets us free from addictive behaviors. Addiction support groups famously begin their programs with blunt statements of reality. “Hello, my name is _________ and I am a _________.” This is a key step because so many addictions are fueled by their own lies and deceptions. “I can quit whenever I want.” “I’ve got this under control.” Even in John 8, those listening to Jesus were unable to see the reality of their own situation. “We’ve never been enslaved to anyone!” (Just read Jewish history to see the truth.) Yet, admitting the reality of our addictive situations allows us to begin the process of breaking the hold such behaviors have on us.
There are other examples we could give, but the point remains the same. Freedom is a state of existence we all want and need. Jesus provides the truest form of freedom that has inspired humans for centuries to emulate it in various forms. Yet, regardless of the setting, be it spiritual, political, or social, one fundamental trait remains. Freedom is grounded in truth.
