How can we apply Jesus' teaching on freedom to our daily lives? Setting the Scene • The temple tax conversation (Matthew 17:24-27) ends with Jesus declaring, “‘Then the sons are exempt.’” (Matthew 17:26) • Jesus affirms His royal identity and, by extension, the believer’s status as children of God—free from obligations that are merely external and ritualistic. Freedom Defined by the King • Our freedom flows from relationship, not rebellion. Sons are free because of who their Father is. • This liberty rests on Christ’s finished work, not on shifting cultural norms or personal effort. • Key echoes: – John 8:36: “So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.” – 2 Corinthians 3:17: “Where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.” Living as Sons and Daughters Because we are “heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ” (Romans 8:17), we • enjoy access—prayer isn’t a distant ritual but family conversation; • walk unhindered by condemnation (Romans 8:1-2); • rest secure: no earthly authority can cancel our Father’s declaration. Freed From, Freed For Freedom in Jesus always carries a dual direction: 1. Freed FROM: – Sin’s penalty (Romans 6:22) – Dead religion and legalism (Galatians 5:1) – Fear of man’s opinion (Proverbs 29:25) 2. Freed FOR: – Loving obedience (John 14:15) – Joyful generosity (2 Corinthians 9:7) – Servant-hearted action (Galatians 5:13; 1 Peter 2:16) Practical Ways to Walk in Freedom • Start each day rehearsing whose child you are; speak Matthew 17:26 and John 8:36 aloud. • Trade duty for delight: read Scripture as a letter from your Father, not a checklist. • Give freely—even paying taxes or fees—“so that we may not offend them” (Matthew 17:27). Freedom chooses voluntary submission to bless others. • Replace anxiety with trust: since sons are exempt, needs are met (Philippians 4:19). • Serve somebody deliberately today—freedom finds expression in love, not isolation. Guardrails Against Abuse of Freedom • Remember Galatians 5:13: liberty is never an excuse for self-indulgence. • Stay accountable—true freedom thrives in godly community (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Let the Spirit, not the flesh, direct choices (Romans 8:14). Encouragement for Today Jesus’ simple sentence, “Then the sons are exempt,” anchors the heart. You are released from striving, welcomed into family, and empowered to live boldly and selflessly. Walk in that liberty—confident, grateful, and eager to reflect your Father’s generous heart. |
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