In what ways can we support those who are "set free" from bondage? Set Free by the Son “ So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.” (John 8:36) Jesus isn’t speaking in metaphors here—He literally breaks chains of sin, addiction, fear, and guilt. When someone steps out of that cell, they need a body of believers ready to walk with them in real freedom. Recognizing the New Reality • Freedom is complete: “You have been set free from sin and have become slaves to righteousness.” (Romans 6:18) • Freedom is purposeful: “It is for freedom that Christ has set us free.” (Galatians 5:1) • Freedom is lived out in community, not isolation: “Let us consider how to spur one another on to love and good deeds, not neglecting to meet together.” (Hebrews 10:24-25) Practical Ways to Support the Newly Freed • Speak truth consistently – Share Scripture that confirms identity in Christ (Colossians 3:12-14). – Correct lies of the enemy with the Word (Ephesians 6:17). • Cultivate accountability – “Confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed.” (James 5:16) – Pair up mentors who have walked the same road. • Offer ongoing discipleship – Schedule regular Bible study times (Acts 2:42). – Encourage memorization of key passages (Psalm 119:11). • Provide practical help – Assist with finding work, housing, or counseling if addictions were involved (Proverbs 3:27). – Connect them with ministries focused on recovery or life skills. • Create a culture of encouragement – “Therefore encourage one another and build one another up.” (1 Thessalonians 5:11) – Celebrate milestones, anniversaries of freedom, and answered prayers. Guarding Against Re-Enslavement • Teach vigilance: “Stand firm and do not be encumbered once more by a yoke of slavery.” (Galatians 5:1) • Emphasize daily surrender: “Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.” (Galatians 5:24) • Encourage spiritual warfare practices—prayer, fasting, Scripture meditation (Ephesians 6:10-18). Living as a Freedom Community • Show compassion: “The God of all comfort…comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble.” (2 Corinthians 1:3-4) • Model service: Freedom blossoms when believers serve one another in love (Galatians 5:13). • Keep pointing back to Jesus: He is the source, sustainer, and goal of every liberated life (Hebrews 12:2). |
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