Bridge Church Virginia Beach

July 20, 2025

Series: Galatians: The Gospel of Grace

Sermon: Freedom in Christ

Scripture: Galatians 5:1 (NIV) “It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.”

INTRODUCTION: Freedom is a central theme of the gospel—a freedom that liberates us from the bondage of sin and legalism.

Definition of freedom: liberation from sin, the law, and condemnation.

"Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom."

The Source of Our Freedom

Christ’s sacrifice on the cross provides the foundation for our freedom. "So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed." John 8:36 (NIV)

      "Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit who gives life has set you free from the law of sin and death."   Romans 8:1-2 (NIV)

The Purpose of Our Freedom
 
Freedom is not a license to sin but a call to live in righteousness. 

1. To live in Grace 

“You who are trying to be justified by the law have been alienated from Christ; you have fallen away from grace.”

‭‭Galatians‬ ‭5‬:‭4‬ ‭NIV‬‬

2, To Serve Others in Love                                                                                                     

“You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love.” Galatians‬ ‭5‬:‭13‬ ‭NIV‬‬

3. Empowerment for Righteous Living                                                                                  
 “So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.        Galatians‬ ‭5‬:‭16‬ ‭NIV‬        
                                                                                                                ‬
4. To Experience True Joy and Fulfillment 

“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.”

‭‭Galatians‬ ‭5‬:‭22‬-‭23‬ ‭NIV‬

CONCLUSION: We are called to stand firm in the freedom of Christ!