Freedom through God’s word – Part 1

The singular pursuit of all peoples and nations on earth is freedom, independence, which ensures they are no longer under the usually harsh control, domination and rulership of any other power. Unfortunately, men may rid themselves of human dominion, but remain under the butt of Satan’s influence. Being free from this is what translates into true freedom. And the glorious gospel of Jesus Christ has the power to grant such freedom, by transforming the sinner’s life.

Apostle Paul’s experience of transformation was wrought by the power of the gospel he received. The power of the gospel makes it possible for sinners that are far away from grace, the Lord and heaven to be brought closer to God through faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. The Apostle expressed his gratitude to God, Who enabled him with power, ability and grace, and “counted (him) faithful, putting (him) into the ministry.”

Although previously a persecutor and a blasphemer, he was transformed when he met the Lord; and the truth of the gospel worked mightily in him. While he was deep in sin in the past, the grace of God went deeper and rescued him. Thus, he recommends this same gospel to all: “This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief.” Since Paul the apostle obtained mercy from the Lord, every sinner who sincerely approaches the Throne of Grace will also obtain mercy and pardon.

“Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners.” Those who claim to be saved must regularly check up to see if the purpose of His death has been fulfilled in their lives. The Lord does not save anyone into sin, but from his sins. As He took the children of Israel out of Egypt, He takes a repentant sinner out of the pollution, power and eternal punishment of sin.

Christ did not come for the self-righteous who think mere religion is sufficient, but for those who recognise that “all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God.” He “came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.” Therefore, when a sinner accepts Jesus as his Lord and Saviour, like Zacchaeus in the Bible, He abides in his heart and takes a prominent place in his life.

Christ, our Saviour, Deliverer, Redeemer and Rescuer, died on the cross of Calvary to transform the sinner, by effecting a change in his character, conduct, language, lifestyle, dressing, marriage, family and professional life.

Thus, people who hold tight to religion without evidence of salvation cannot please God with their worship or service. Genuine salvation experience helps a person to maintain a living relationship and fellowship with the Lord; it helps him escape God’s wrath and judgment, and confers on him the qualification for heaven.

Further Reading (King James Version): 1 Timothy 1:11-16; 1 Timothy 1:15; Matthew 1:21; Mark 2:17; Luke 19:5-10; John 1:29; Acts 3:26; 5:30,31; Romans 3:23,24; 5:6,8-10; Hebrews 7:25,26; 1 Timothy 1:15; Isaiah 1:16-20.