Putting a Hold on Freedom
For many years, the region of Spain known as Catalonia has considered being an independent nation. They have their own language and a fairly bright economy, led by the largest city in the region, Barcelona.
Recently, there was actually a vote among the people of that region and they voted for independence (though, admittedly, turnout was quite low). However, after the vote, they then put a hold on independence.
Now, this is not meant to be a political post or an article about world cultures. I know little about the Catalonian independence movement and I have no idea if it would be a good thing or bad thing if this region should become its own nation.
However, the whole concept of putting a hold on independence drew my attention and made me think of the life of a Christian. It made me wonder how many Christians are putting a hold on freedom.
The promise of God is freedom from our worst possible problem–sin–should we simply obey His will. On the birthday of the church, when asked what to do about their sin, Peter responded, “Repent, and let every one of you be baptized for the remission of sins…” (Acts 2:38).
The word “remission” is fascinating. The original word, aphesis, carries the idea of “liberation from” or “release from bondage.” Being obedient to the will of God, culminating in the saving act of baptism, liberates us from our sins. We are free!
But then…
…how many Christians still let certain sins hold sway over their life?
…how many Christians allow the guilt of what they have done before conversion take hold and weigh them down?
…how many disciples cannot shake the anxiety that comes from what they used to be before Christ?
There can be no doubt that we might still face certain consequences of our sin here in this life, even if we are liberated from them by the blood of Christ. The murderer who is baptized cannot bring the victim back to life, nor can his/her baptism cause a prison sentence to suddenly be removed. A man caught embezzling money may still be fired or may still have to make serious restitution for that act, even should he obey the will of God in repentance and baptism.
However, just because we face certain earthly consequences, we can no longer let those things remove the joy of being free in our soul from the burden of past sins! Our lives should be lived like the free men and women we have become in Christ. With our 24 hour locksmith service nearby, you never need to wait to get your lockout or other emergency locksmith needs met.
We should never let anything put a hold on our freedom! Why would you wait to be free?
“And now why do you wait? Rise and be baptized and wash away your sins; calling on His name.” (Acts 22:16)
“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.” (2 Corinthians 5:17)
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AUTHOR: Adam Faughn
