The Paradox (and confusion) of Freedom

In the movie, Princess Bride, Wesley (the main character), tells the Sicilian (one of the bad guys), "I don't think you know what that word means (referencing the word, "inconceivable"). There is a "cultural" meaning of freedom, and there is a Biblical meaning of freedom. I don't think we have a healthy grasp of what that word means. Let's see which one we really want!

Biblically, Jesus gives us a short definition of freedom. "Very truly I tell you, everyone who sins is a slave to sin. Now a slave has no permanent place in the family, but a son belongs to it forever. So if the Son sets you free, you are free indeed (John 8:34-36)." Here's the paradox. You can live in a "free country," and you can sing the songs of freedom, but remain a slave. Or, you can be in jail in Russia, but be living in a greater freedom that can only be found in Christ.

In this short passage from John 8, in which Jesus' testimony is delegitimized by the Pharisees, He is chastised by the religious regime. In the same chapter, the Pharisees dispute the identity of Jesus.  A third thing happens in this chapter. The Jews claim the name of Abrahan as their ancestor, and they claim they are therefore "chosen" and free. Jesus responds by telling them their ancestry and country is not the source of their true freedom.

Jesus could have had this conversation with any group of Americans. Because we are confused by this "idea" of freedom, and often miss the actuality of true freedom. Jesus' message is pointed, but very unpopular.  1) Your freedom can only come from the sacrifice that has paid for your freedom. 2) Your freedom doesn't come from your ancestry ... it comes from a relationship with God's Son.  3) If you are enslaved by sin, you have not yet been brought into the family of God.

Jesus is saying, choose Jesus as your Lord and Savior, and become a free man/woman.  And, for you historians, let's take a critical look back at history.  Freedom is, historically, fleeting.  Nations can only provide a temporary glimpse of freedom.  Over time, nations have a way of forgetting their foundational principles.  Does this sound familiar?

I am intrigued by the overall discussion in John 8.  First, the leaders challenge what Jesus is saying (His testimony).  Then, they challenge His actual identity.  Then, they even say Jesus "isn't really one of them."  This scarily resembles conversations happening in denominational disputes and in extreme political disputes.  This turmoil boils down to a lack of understanding of the freedom offered by Jesus, and we must (nationally) hold to Him, lest we become spiritual wanderers, "Like sheep without a shepherd (Matthew 9:36-38)."

As we celebrate our Independence, let's remember that true freedom isn't doing whatever we want.  True freedom is choosing those things (and the one person) that offer "abundant life (John 10:10)."  Let's love our country, and long for our home with Jesus.  And let's spread the true message of freedom, from sea to shining sea!