When most of us men think of July we think of family vacations, ball games, cookouts, and fireworks on the 4th of July… Independence Day. And because of this, our theme this month is freedom. But before we get started let’s make sure we understand what freedom is.
Freedom is defined as the power or right to act, speak, or think as one wants without hindrance or restraint.
The Ultimate Price of Freedom
Most of earth’s history has been plagued by despots, dictators, and tyrants who lived extravagant lifestyles while oppressing their subjects. The freedoms that we take for granted today, freedom of the press, freedom of religion, and more, were unthinkable in the past. But let’s always remember that the freedoms we enjoy today were purchased by the blood of others.
“Only two defining forces have ever offered to die for you; Jesus Christ and the American Soldier. One died for your soul; the other for your freedom.” Unknown
The blood that was shed by valiant soldiers gives us civil freedom. And the blood that was shed by Jesus Christ gives us spiritual freedom. Freedom isn’t free!
Every Man Longs for Freedom
Every man longs for freedom and yet most men find that their “freedom” leads to pain and bondage. You see, true freedom can only be experienced where God’s kingdom is lived out in the lives of ordinary men like you. Where men are submitted to the lordship of Jesus Christ they discover the only path to true freedom!
Here’s to becoming free IN CHRIST,
Tom Pyke
Blueprint for Men
Small Groups Coordinator
Listen to “Freedom in Christ. An Interview with Tom Pyke”
EDUCATING
The Pathway of Freedom
Every day we make choices that result in increasing freedom or increasing bondage. Jesus offers us not only freedom but the entire pathway that allows us to overcome sin, to do his will, and to do it for his glory. Here’s the simple sequence.
Freedom IN... true freedom is found only IN CHRIST.
Freedom FROM… freedom in Christ empowers you to break free FROM SIN.
Freedom TO… freedom in Christ empowers you TO DO HIS WILL.
Freedom FOR… freedom in Christ empowers you to ultimately live FOR HIS GLORY.
Freedom Starts and Ends with Freedom IN Christ
This month we will follow this pathway to freedom starting with the foundation, freedom IN CHRIST.
“If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples, and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” John 8:31-32
To experience freedom in Christ you must first get to know Him. To know Him is to love Him. To love Him is to trust Him. And with trust comes freedom.
The Steps to Freedom IN Christ
Becoming free in Jesus Christ involves a journey of spiritual transformation and personal growth. Here are the steps that lead to freedom in Christ. These steps must be experienced on a daily basis to truly live IN freedom every day.
Step 1 – Acknowledge the Need for Salvation
Recognize your need for forgiveness and reconciliation with God due to sin. This involves acknowledging that all have sinned (Romans 3:23) and fallen short of God’s standard.
Q: Do you see your desperate condition and need? Or are you apathetic, lukewarm, and “Laodicean”?
Step 2 – Believe in Jesus Christ
Accept Jesus Christ as your Savior and believe in His sacrificial death on the cross for the forgiveness of sins. This faith is the foundation of a relationship with God (John 3:16).
Q: Do you really believe in Christ? Do you have faith in Him? Remember, even the devil believes.
Step 3 – Repentance and Confession
Repentance involves a genuine sorrow for sin and a turning away from sinful behaviors. Confessing your sins to God and seeking His forgiveness are essential aspects of this step (1 John 1:9).
Q: Are you only sorry for your sins? Have you truly repented (turned away) from your sin?
Step 4 – Receive the Holy Spirit
Upon believing in Jesus, receive the Holy Spirit who dwells in every believer and empowers them to live a transformed life (Acts 2:38).
Q: Have you asked to be filled with the Holy Spirit? Are you experiencing a Spirit-filled life, a life of transformation?
Step 5 – Renew Your Mind
Transform your thinking by renewing your mind through studying and applying God’s Word, the Bible (Romans 12:2). Allow the truth of God’s Word to shape your beliefs, attitudes, and actions.
Q: How healthy is your thought life? Do you sense God is renewing your mind? Are you spending time going deep in God’s word?
Step 6 – Live in Obedience to God’s Word
Follow Jesus’ teachings and strive to obey God’s commandments out of love for Him (John 14:15). This includes living a life characterized by love for God and others (Matthew 22:37-39).
Q: On a scale of 1 to 10, how do you think those in your inner circle (wife and children) would rate your love? How would you rate your love of God as reflected in your obedience to his word and promptings?
Step 7 – Grow in Relationship with God
Cultivate a personal relationship with God through prayer, worship, fellowship with other believers, and ongoing spiritual disciplines (James 4:8).
Q: Are you having a consistent quiet time every morning? How often do you find yourself praying throughout the day? Are you involved at your church?
Step 8 – Serve Others and Share the Gospel
Demonstrate your faith through acts of service, kindness, and sharing the good news of Jesus Christ with others (Matthew 28:19-20).
Q: If you were “accused” of being a Christian, would there be enough evidence to convict you? How do you share the gospel with others?
Step 9 – Endure and Persevere
Recognize that the Christian journey involves challenges and trials. Trust in God’s faithfulness, rely on His strength, and persevere in your faith (James 1:12).
Q: How are you holding up when under pressure? Are you patient, long-suffering, and kind when tested?
Step 10 – Experience Freedom and Transformation
As you walk daily with Christ, you experience the freedom from sin’s power, guilt, and condemnation. Additionally you will grow in spiritual maturity and bear fruit that reflects Christ’s character (Galatians 5:22-23).
Q: Has your “fruitfulness” increased and become sweeter as you abide with Christ? Do you experience a greater peace with God compared to a few years ago?
Freedom IN Christ. A Summary
These 10 steps outline a lifelong process of becoming more like Christ and experiencing the freedom that comes from living in His truth and grace. It’s a journey of faith, continual growth, and reliance on God’s transforming power through His Son, Jesus Christ.
EQUIPPING
Are You Equipped for Freedom?
To be successful in finding freedom in Christ you need more than inspiration and information. You need to be equipped with tools and you need a brother or two that will encourage you along the way.
Over the past 10 years since our ministry began, we have checked out many curricula for helping men developing a deeper walk with God. One of the best we have discovered is Every Man a Warrior. This 3-book series starts with “Walking with God” which builds the foundation for men who desire to live in freedom every day.
If you’re not ready to join a group consider reacquainting yourself with Steps to Christ by Ellen White. Click the link below to begin listening to this classic about how to walk with God. Enjoy!
LISTEN HERE
ENGAGING
The Freedom Brotherhood
Need a Nudge?
Joining a men’s group is a big hurdle for most guys. Reading some testimonials from guys like you might be just what you need to nudge you forward.
“It’s been a huge step forward for me and God has become much more of my daily life. I’ve also met some fantastic guys to do life with.”
“Accountability is so needed to walk through this life, so it is always good having a group of guys get together to encourage and hold each other accountable to get in God’s Word, pray, and talk through key areas of life.”
More Questions?
If you need to talk with someone in person reach out to our small groups coordinator, Tom Pyke. He will answer all your questions and get you all set-up. He’s great! Schedule an appointment here.
Ready to Join a Group?
To find out more or to join an Every Man a Warrior group click on the link below.
QUOTABLE
Navigating Life with GPS
To succeed we must humbly seek God’s direction on a daily basis just as scripture says.
“The mind of a man plans his ways but the Lord directs his steps.” Proverbs 16:9
Just like you use a GPS when finding your way, so we should also we use the God Positioning System… GPS!