Only the Son Makes You Unquestionably Free

John 8:33-36, AMP

Jesus continued His conversation of encouragement with those Jews who believed on Him. In vv. 31-32 He made His listeners a promise based on a condition. The promise to them was that they would be his disciples indeed (v.31) and know the truth (Jesus Himself), and the truth would make them free (v.32). Jesus declared that this promise would be based on the condition: “If you abide in My word” (v.31). In other words, continually obey His word: “If you love Me, keep My commandments” (14:15, NKJV). True love for God is to habitually keep His commandments and remain focused on His precepts, which are not burdensome, or hard to obey (1John 5:3).

The Jews responded to Jesus that they were Abraham’s descendants and had never been in bondage to anyone. Therefore, how could Jesus say, “You will be made free (v.33)?” Jesus answered them with an absolute assurance that whosoever commits and practices sin is the slave of sin (v.34). He declared that a slave does not remain in a household forever; the son [of the house] does remain forever (v.35). So, if the Son makes you free men, then you are really and unquestionably free (“John 8:36 – BibleGateway.com”). Therefore, we can choose to remain in bondage to sin and die – for the wages of sin is death – or accept true freedom through a relationship with Christ and abide in His word and live. The choice is yours. Give God glory!