Topics: Jesus, spiritual freedom, grace
I. Stand firm in the freedom of Christ's yoke
A. Christ's yoke is easy; religious legalism is a yoke of slavery!
- Jesus: "Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light." (Mt 11:28-30)
- False teachers: Everyone is greedy for gain, and from the prophet even to the priest everyone deals falsely. They have healed the brokenness of My people superficially, saying, "Peace, peace," but there is no peace.
Were they ashamed because of the abomination they have done? They were not even ashamed at all; they did not even know how to blush. (Jer 6:13-15)
B. How is your yoke feeling today? Is it easy & light or hard & heavy?
Stand firm in the freedom of God's grace
A. God's grace is refreshing; religious legalism refuses to enjoy grace!
- Trusting in ceremonial rituals means Christ will be of no benefit to you.
- Trusting in your obedience to the law obligates you to keep the whole Law.
- Trusting in your own efforts means you have fallen from grace.
- Christ or circumcision, grace or law, faith or works, Spirit or flesh: these are exclusive alternatives. You cannot have it both ways. You must choose.
- But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. (2 Pt 3:18)
B. How is your walk developing? Are you growing in grace or conceit?
Stand firm in the freedom of loving faith
A. Loving faith is full of hope; religious legalism places faith in self!
- A life of faith, hope and love comes through the Spirit.
- A life of faith, hope and love is found in Christ Jesus alone.
- A life of faith, hope and love is expressed by faith working through love.
B. How is your faith expressed? Is it through love or indifference?
