I have known the first part of Galatians 5:1 for a long time... I have even preached several sermons on it: "It is for freedom Christ set us free." What I did not realize until recently is that 5:1 goes on to say "Stand firm; therefore, and do not be entangled again by the yoke of bondage."
I really like the implications of the second part of this verse. We (I) must stand firm because it is a daily choice whether to live in freedom or not. I also like the word picture that is painted by the word entangled. The yoke of bondage doesn't simply slip on and off, it weaves around us. Going in and out of many parts of our lives tangling us in a deadly snare.
John Newton, the writer of Amazing Grace, knew that it took a great deal of grace to stand firm and what the result was. When he penned the words, "through many dangers, toils and snares I have already come, his grace has brought me safe thus far and his grace will bring me home," it was more than just a nice lyric. He had not led an easy life. He knew the truth of these words to his very bones. He also knew that he must stand firm.
Entanglement begins with one choice, then another, then another. It often begins with one small compromise, but that is all our enemy needs to begin his work. Christ came to set the captive free and Satan works to set the free captive.
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