Faith without religion.
Divine Identity and True Freedom
In a recent teaching, we delved into the profound words of Jesus from John 8:32, exploring the depth and implications of His message to the Pharisees and scribes. Jesus declared, “I go my way, and ye shall seek me, and shall die in your sins: whither I go, ye cannot come.” This statement sparked a discussion on the nature of belief and the path to true freedom.
Jesus emphasized the distinction between earthly and heavenly origins, stating, “Ye are from beneath; I am from above.” This highlights the moral and spiritual divide between human intentions and divine purpose. He further asserted His divine identity with the sacred name “I AM,” a declaration that resonated deeply with His audience, drawing from the rich history of God’s self-revelation to Moses.
The teaching underscored the importance of belief in Jesus as the I AM, a belief that is foundational to salvation. However, belief is not the endpoint. Jesus outlined a transformative journey: “If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed; and ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.” This path involves abiding in His teachings, becoming true disciples, and ultimately experiencing the liberating power of truth.
The essence of this freedom is rooted in love—knowing Jesus, who is the embodiment of truth and love, sets us free. This freedom transcends the constraints of the law, offering a life of grace and love. As we embrace this journey, we are called to let go of past grievances and embrace a life of forgiveness and grace, reflecting the love that God first showed us.
In conclusion, the teaching invites us to move beyond mere belief to a life of continued growth in His word, becoming true disciples who know the truth and are set free by it. This journey is marked by love, the ultimate expression of freedom in Christ.
