In our culture today, the idea of “freedom” is often seen as the license to do whatever you want. However, Scripture teaches us that we are bound like slaves to whatever we obey, whether sin or righteousness. Hillsong Worship reminds us that we are free when the Son sets us free in their song “Who You Say I Am.”
In John 8, Jesus has some strong words to say about the matter. Why don’t you join me there?
On this week’s episode, I discuss:
- Taking a B.I.T.E. out of Scripture – this week’s Bible Interaction Tool Exercises include:
- Slow down
- Repetition
- Read larger chunks of Scripture
- Listen to the audio version
- Reference several translations
- Complete a word study
- How taking a couple of weeks to prepare this lesson reminded me of the value of slowing down
- Listening to an audio version of Scripture using the YouVersion Bible App
- The importance of studying using several translations
- How John tells the story from a perspective after Jesus’ resurrection and the gift of the Holy Spirit
- How Christ’s true identity becomes a hotly contested topic of conversation – John 7:40-44
- Focus verses for the podcast – John 8:30-38
- “As verse 31 stresses, appearance of belief must be matched by perseverance in following Jesus and His teaching.” – The Apologetics Study Bible
- The word study for the word translated “hold,” or “remain faithful,” or “continue in,” or “abide” in John 8:31 – BibleHub.com
- How absurd it is to believe that we are not slaves
- What we were saved from – Titus 3:3-7
- Becoming slaves to righteousness – Romans 6:16-18
Enjoy the official music video below.
Additional Resources
- Lyrics
- Acoustic performance and story behind the song “Who You Say I Am” – WorshipTogether Video
This Week’s Challenge
Read John chapter 8. Read it several times in several translations. Put on the audio version a few times this week as well. Focus on the section we talked about today or journey through the Old Testament seeking out details of the Feast of Tabernacles. Compare what you learn to the experiences of Jesus detailed in John 7-10. Be sure to slow down—repetition will help you do that.
