This is the manuscript of the sermon preached at Christ Church Los Angeles on July 6, 2025.
Scripture Reading:
Galatians 5:13-25 NIV [13] 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. [14] For the entire law is fulfilled in keeping this one command: “Love your neighbor as yourself.” [15] If you bite and devour each other, watch out or you will be destroyed by each other. [16] So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. [17] For the flesh desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh. They are in conflict with each other, so that you are not to do whatever you want. [18] But if you are led by the Spirit, you are notunder the law. [19] The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; [20] idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions [21] and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God. [22] But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, [23] gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. [24] Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. [25] Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit.
Text
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.
John 8:36 NIV So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.
Introduction
We just celebrated our nation’s Independence Day, and our minds might naturally turn to themes of freedom, liberty, and self-governance. We reflect on the profound courage and sacrifice of those who sought independence for our nation, forging a path for the freedoms we cherish and are chasing today. And indeed, these are vital aspects of our earthly existence.
However, as people of faith, we are called to consider a deeper, more profound kind of independence – one that transcends political boundaries and historical moments.
We are called to understand true independence, the kind that is from God, and in God, through a vibrant and living faith.Our faith is not just compatible with independence, but is, in fact, the very foundation of lasting freedom and independence.
I. The Human Pursuit of Independence
From the earliest stories in Genesis, humanity has wrestled with the desire for independence. Think about Adam and Eve in the Garden. Their pursuit of knowledge "like God" was, at its heart, a quest for ultimate autonomy, the ability to define good and evil for themselves, independent of their Creator.
Genesis 3:2-5 NIV [2] The woman said to the serpent, “We may eat fruit from the trees in the garden, [3] but God did say, ‘You must not eat fruit from the tree that is in the middle of the garden, and you must not touch it, or you will die.’ ” [4] “You will not certainly die,” the serpent said to the woman. [5] “For God knows that when you eat from it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil.”
This desire to be "like God," on our own terms, is what led to humanity's fall.
Genesis 3:6 NIV When the woman saw that the fruit of the tree was good for food and pleasing to the eye, and also desirable for gaining wisdom, she took some and ate it. She also gave some to her husband, who was with her, and he ate it.
Historically, this yearning for self-governance, for control over our own destinies has manifested itself in powerful ways, individuals striving for personal liberty, and each of us seeking to chart our own course in life.
We value the right to choose, to speak, to assemble, to worship and these are precious gifts. However, if our independence is solely defined by our ability to be free from external control or from reliance on others, it often leaves us ultimately dependent on our own limited strength, wisdom, and resources, and as we know from experience, relying solely on ourselves can lead to a different kind of bondage. Bondage to anxiety, bondage to fear of failure, bondage to the pursuit of fleeting pleasures, or to the burdens of self-sufficiency. As Proverbs 14:12 warns, "There is a way that appears to be right, but in the end it leads to death."
In other words true wisdom comes from God, and aligning our lives with His will is the only way to avoid destructive outcomes, even when our own reasoning suggests otherwise.
II. True Independence: Freedom in Christ
This is where the gospel offers a revolutionary perspective. Our text this morning speaks directly to this. Galatians 5:1 declares, "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." And John 8:36 assures us, "So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed."
What kind of freedom is this you might ask! It is real freedom. It is freedom in God.:
It is freedom from the penalty of sin: The crushing weight of guilt and the power of sin no longer hold us captive. Christ’s sacrifice on the cross paid our debt, offering us forgiveness and a path to reconciliation with God. Romans 6:23 reminds us, "For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord."
And as Romans 8:1 proclaims, "Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus."
It’s freedom from the power of sin: While we still wrestle with temptation, we are no longer slaves to our sinful desires. The Holy Spirit empowers us to choose righteousness, to live lives that honor God. As Romans 6:18 states, "You have been set free from sin and have become slaves of righteousness." And Philippians 2:13 teaches, "For it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose."
The Holy Spirit's empowerment is not a passive experience but an active partnership. As we yield to His leading, listen to His guidance, and rely on His strength, He enables us to choose righteousness day by day, transforming us into individuals who truly honor God with our lives. It's a journey of continuous growth and surrender, as we constantly seek to align our priorities with His divine will.
It’s freedom from the tyranny of fear: Fear of the future, fear of failure, fear of judgment – these fears lose their grip when we trust in a sovereign and loving God who holds us in His hands. 2 Timothy 1:7 declares, "For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind." And Psalm 27:1 affirms, "The Lord is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life—of whom shall I be afraid?"
When we internalize these truths about God – His absolute sovereignty, His boundless love, and His intimate care for us – these paralyzing fears begin to dissolve.
The fear of the future gives way to peace, knowing a sovereign God is directing our steps and will bring good out of all circumstances.
The fear of failure transforms into freedom to take risks and learn, knowing that even setbacks are part of a loving God's plan for our growth and that our worth isn't tied to our performance.
The fear of judgment evaporates under the warmth of His unconditional love and acceptance, knowing that in Christ, we are forgiven, righteous, and fully embraced.
This trust isn't a one-time decision but a continuous process. As we deepen this trust, we find a profound sense of security and liberation, enabling us to live boldly and purposefully, free from the chains of fear.
It is freedom from the burden of working for our salvation: We are not saved by diligently following rules, but by grace through faith. Our obedience becomes a response of love, not a desperate attempt to earn salvation. Ephesians 2:8-9 clearly states, "For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast."
Salvation is a free gift from God, given out of His undeserved kindness (grace), and received through trusting in Him (faith). Salvation is not earned by anything we do (works). This means that God alone receives the glory for salvation.
This freedom I’m talking about is freedom FOR righteous living and service: This freedom isn't license to do as we please; it is the glorious freedom to become who God created us to be – to love, to serve, to bring justice, and to shine His light in the world. It’s a freedom for something greater than ourselves. Galatians 5:13 encourages us, "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."
Christian freedom isn't about absence of rules, but about a transformation that leads to selfless love and service towards others, guided by our relationship with God. It's a call to use our freedom for constructive, loving purposes, rather than destructive, selfish ones.
III. Faith is the Foundation of True Independence
Faith in God Frees Us from Self-Reliance: When we place our faith in God, we acknowledge His sovereignty and omnipotence. We step out of the exhausting cycle of trying to control everything ourselves. Instead of relying on our own limited strength and wisdom, we lean on His limitless power and perfect plan.
Proverbs 3:5-6 wisely instructs, "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight."
True wisdom and effective living come from a complete, humble, and pervasive reliance on God's guidance, rather than our own limited human wisdom.
James 1:5 NIV If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.
Wisdom from God is not reserved for a select few or only acquired through extensive worldly study.
True wisdom, especially the kind that leads to life and helps us navigate complex situations, originates with God. It's distinct from mere human knowledge or cleverness. When we acknowledge Him in everything, He provides clear direction and purpose for our lives.
And Jeremiah 17:7-8 promises, "But blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him. They will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream. It does not fear when heat comes; its leaves are always green. It has no worries in a year of drought and never fails to bear fruit."
Those who place their complete trust and confidence in the Lord will experience stability, resilience, and spiritual fruitfulness, regardless of the challenging circumstances they face in life. Their connection to God provides an unfailing source of strength and sustenance.
I can’t emphasize enough the immense importance of trusting God above all else.
Faith Establishes Our Identity in Christ: Our true identity is not found in our achievements, our possessions, our nationality, or even our roles in life. Our true identity is found in Christ. When we understand that we are chosen, redeemed, and sanctified by Him, we are liberated from the need for external validation.
In our Bible Study on the names of God we studied the name Jehovah-Mekoddishkem (The LORD Who Sanctifies You). We learned about God's active role in making His people holy and setting them apart, God is the one who sanctifies.
Because God is continuously transforming us to be more like Him, we can shed the pretense and fear that often prevent us from being truly ourselves. We are free to be genuine, knowing that His love is constant and that He is committed to our growth, not our condemnation.
Romans 8:1 NIV [1] Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus,
Our authenticity is rooted in His unwavering commitment to our holiness.
2 Corinthians 5:17 beautifully states, "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!"
Faith Provides Peace and Security.
Romans 5:1-5 NIV [1] Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, [2] through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And we boast in the hope of the glory of God. [3] Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; [4] perseverance, character; and character, hope. [5] And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us.
The hostility and separation between a holy God and sinful humanity are removed through the sacrifice of Jesus. The "peace" here is not just an internal feeling of calmness (though that can be a result), but primarily a cessation of hostilities and a reconciliation in the relationship between God and believers. It means we are no longer enemies but are now His children, reconciled and at peace with Him, all made possible through Jesus Christ.
Romans 5:9-11 NIV [9] Since we have now been justified by his blood, how much more shall we be saved from God’s wrath through him! [10] For if, while we were God’s enemies, we were reconciled to him through the death of his Son, how much more, having been reconciled, shall we be saved through his life! [11] Not only is this so, but we also boast in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation.
When we trust that God is working all things for our good, even when we don't understand His ways, we are freed from the bondage of anxiety and worry.
Romans 8:28-30 NIV [28] And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. [29] For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters. [30] And those he predestined, he also called; those he called, he also justified; those he justified, he also glorified.
And then at Romans 8:38-39 NIV [38] For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, [39] neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
This is true liberation.
As Philippians 4:6-7 commands and promises, "Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."
Faith Inspires Service and Love: The freedom we gain in Christ is not meant for selfish indulgence, but for loving service. Galatians 5:13 says, "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."
Our faith frees us to love without reservation, to serve without expectation of reward, and to give without counting the cost, mirroring the self-giving love of Christ. This is true freedom – the ability to love without constraint. 1 John 4:7-8 reminds us, "Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love."
Conclusion
As we celebrate our national independence, let us also celebrate, and more importantly, live out, the profound spiritual independence that is ours through faith in Jesus Christ.
National independence is a precious gift, allowing us to pursue life, liberty, and happiness. But spiritual independence in Christ is an eternal gift, freeing us from the ultimate bondage of sin and death, and empowering us to live lives of purpose, peace, and loving service.
It is the freedom to align our priorities with His will, to trust in His character, and to find our true selves in Him.
May we, as individuals and as a church, stand firm in the freedom Christ has given us. May we demonstrate this freedom through lives of worship, service, and unwavering reliance on our God – the LORD who sanctifies us, provides for us, heals us, is our peace, our banner, our righteousness, and who is always, always there.
Let us pray.
Our Gracious God,
With the spirit of our nation's Independence Day still strong in our hearts, we come before you with gratitude. We thank You for the earthly freedoms we cherish—the liberty to live, to speak, to assemble, and to worship.
Help us, Father, to continuously place our faith in You, trusting in Your sovereignty and omnipotence. Free us from the exhausting cycle of self-reliance and enable us to lean on Your limitless power and perfect plan.May we worship You wholeheartedly, serve others selflessly, and rely unwaveringly on Your character. You are the Lord who sanctifies us; You are our provider, our healer, our peace, our banner, our righteousness, and You are always, always there.
May we stand firm in the freedom Christ has given us, not allowing ourselves to be burdened again by any yoke of slavery, but living fully in glorious liberty.
In the mighty name of Jesus, we pray. Amen.
