Let Us Stand Fast in the Liberty that Christ Provides (Galatians 5:1)
Introduction:
1. The theme of our lesson is based on the admonition given in Galatians 5:1: "Let us stand fast in the liberty that Christ provides." 2. Since tomorrow is recognized as Independence Day, perhaps this is a good time to study passages that relate to this very important principle. 3. As we begin our lesson we first need to point out that . . . Discussion: I. CHRIST PROVIDES FREEDOM
A. Galatians 5:1 mentions "the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free." B. Many passages indicate that freedom comes from Christ. 1. (Luke 4:18) As Jesus read from Isaiah 61:1-2 in the synagogue, He showed that He came "to preach deliverance to the captives" and "to set at liberty them that are bruised." 2. (John 8:36) Jesus said, "If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed." 3. Jesus provides freedom; however, the Scriptures also teach that . . . C. Jesus gave guidelines for receiving the freedom He provides (John 8:31-32). D. Since these guidelines relate to our freedom,: 1. let us identify the Lord's Word [the New Testament -- Hebrews 9:15] 2. let us understand what is involved in "continuing in" the Lord's Word [to abide in, to dwell in, to remain in -- Colossians 3:16a; James 1:25]. E. To receive the freedom that the Lord provides, we must avoid certain mistakes. 1. We must not reject the Lord's Word (John 12:48). 2. We must not follow a "perverted" [changed] gospel (Galatians 1:6-9). F. To summarize,: 1. Jesus provides spiritual freedom 2. we must continue in His Word to receive the freedom that He provides. II. THE SCRIPTURES SHOW WHEN THE LORD PROVIDES FREEDOM
A. We certainly want to continue in the Lord's Word to know the truth on this matter. B. (Romans 6:17-18) The Lord makes us free from sin when we obey from the heart the doctrine revealed in the Bible. C. (Romans 6:3-7) He makes us free from sin when we are baptized into Him. D. After He makes us free, . . . III. CHRIST WANTS US TO REMAIN FREE
A. Galatians 5:1 says that we are to "stand fast" in the liberty that Christ provides. B. Instructions that relate to this principle are given in: 1. Galatians 5:1b -- "Be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage." a. We are no longer under the Law of Moses (Galatians 3:24-25). b. We must not seek to be justified by the Law of Moses (Galatians 5:4). 2. Galatians 5:13 -- The liberty provided by Christ does not allow us to serve the flesh. a. Many "works of the flesh" are listed in vs.19-21. b. See Galatians 5:24. Conclusion:
1. Have you received the freedom that Christ provides? 2. If you have, are you standing fast in it?
