Real freedom
I have become its servant, according to God’s commission that was given to me for you, to make the word of God fully known, the mystery hidden for ages and generations but now revealed to his saints. God wanted to make known among the Gentiles the glorious wealth of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory. We proclaim him, warning and teaching everyone with all wisdom, so that we may present everyone mature in Christ. Colossians 1:25-28
The Apostle Paul has always been grateful that God called Him to share the message of salvation. He was profoundly indebted to God that the message was revealed so that Gentiles as well would hear the gospel. Jesus coming into this world gave His life, suffered, died on the cross and on the third day rose from the dead was the context of the gospel that Paul was proclaiming. He surrendered his life in Christ and having the knowledge that God lives in Him compelled him to live His life worthy of His calling. He wants people to come to the realization that they too need to come to Christ. Unless they accept the message of salvation they are spiritually dead and will not experience freedom over sin. Paul knew that real freedom can only be obtained through Christ. “For freedom, Christ set us free” (Galatians 5:1). Once you receive God’s plan of salvation and trust Jesus alone, you die in your sin and had been set free from the yoke of slavery. Paul recognized that this message of salvation is foolishness to the world, yet for him it is what brings eternal life to those who believe. “The message of the cross is foolish to those who are headed for destruction! But we who are being saved know it is the very power of God” (Colossians 1:18). For him, freedom is serving the Savior and living life for His glory. Because of this radical change, he is committed to live giving glory and honor to God because of the new life he received from Him. It would be a disgrace to take for granted what Christ did on the cross by not living the new life the way He wanted you to have. When you accept His love, it will be ludicrous to disobey His will for your life. The way you live your life will be your expression of gratitude to the incomparable grace you received from Jesus, your Lord and Savior. “But now, since you have been set free from sin and have become enslaved to God, you have your fruit, which results in sanctification” (Romans 6:22).
Blessings,
Noel De Guzman
www.my-wbc.com
