Bob Dylan once sang “You gotta serve somebody.” It’s true. You do. You may think you’re not, but that doesn’t change the fact that you’re going to be a slave to something.
Yeah…I said slave. Because you are. I am, too. The only difference is my slavery is by choice. Huh?
There are two types of slaves: one type that does not choose to be enslaved, yet is. The other type is free, yet chooses to be a servant. I used to be the first type, but now I’m the second. Still confused? Let’s try and clear it up then.
Jesus said: “Most assuredly, I say to you, whoever commits sin is a slave of sin.” (John 8:34)
Sinned lately? If so, then you’re a slave. Let me help you: you have, and you are. All of us, every one. Now, if Jesus just left us there, we’re all without hope, but He didn’t.
“And a slave does not abide in the house forever, [but] a son abides forever. Therefore if the Son makes you free, you shall be free indeed.” (John 8:35, 36)
We’re all in bondage to one thing in many forms, and that thing is sin. Jesus is the difference maker between slavery and freedom, between life and death. A relationship with Jesus destroys the power and pull of sin in our lives. Paul said it this way:
“...knowing this, that our old man was crucified with [Him], that the body of sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves of sin.” (Romans 6:6)
The “old man” (who you used to be before Jesus gave you new life and breath) is dead. You’re no longer a slave to sin! You’re a new creation, and have been given new life!
‘For freedom Christ has set us free; stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery.” Galatians 5:1
If you’re still struggling with sin, realize this: you’re choosing to resurrect a dead man. He has no power on his own. You give the flesh that power. Don’t do it, because believer you me, the more you resurrect him, the stronger he’s going to get. Jesus said elsewhere that you can’t serve two masters. He was speaking of God and money, but the principle holds true. There’s only room for one ruler in your life.
Next post, we’ll look at the being a slave by choice.
The Wading Pool 