"Finding Liberty in Christ" Listen to Song

Introduction:

Today, we will delve into the profound work and authority of Christ, drawing from the scriptures John 17:1-10, Matthew 20:28, Hebrews 5:9, and Isaiah 9:6.

The central theme we will explore is Finding Liberty in Christ—a deep examination of how Jesus liberates us from the burdens of sin and the constraints of the law.

I. What was Jesus’ Prayer All About? (John 17:1-10)

Context: As Jesus approaches the culmination of His earthly ministry, He engages in a heartfelt prayer, recognizing that the moment for His glorification has arrived.

Key Points:

    1. Glorification (vv. 1-5): In His prayer, Jesus earnestly seeks to glorify the Father, reflecting the completion of His divine mission.
      • “These words spake Jesus, and lifted up his eyes to heaven, and said, Father, the hour is come; glorify thy Son, that thy Son also may glorify thee.” (John 17:1, KJV)
    2. Eternal Life (v. 3): The essence of eternal life is not merely in knowledge but in a personal relationship with God and Jesus.
      • “And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent.” (John 17:3, KJV)
    3. Finished Work (v. 4): Jesus boldly proclaims that He has accomplished the work entrusted to Him by the Father.
      • “I have glorified thee on the earth: I have finished the work which thou gavest me to do.” (John 17:4, KJV)

Discussion Question: In what ways was Jesus glorified through His actions?

II. Christ Demonstrated ‘Servanthood and Sacrifice’

  • Main Idea: Jesus exemplified true servanthood, prioritizing service over being served.
    • “But Jesus called them unto him, and said, Ye know that the princes of the Gentiles exercise dominion over them, and they that are great exercise authority upon them. But it shall not be so among you: but whosoever will be great among you, let him be your minister; And whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant.” (Matthew 20:25-27, KJV)
  • Key Verses:
    • Galatians 4:1-2: This passage highlights the significance of training and the experience of servanthood.
      • “Now I say, That the heir, as long as he is a child, differeth nothing from a servant, though he be lord of all: But is under tutors and governors until the time appointed of the father.” (Galatians 4:1-2, KJV)
    • Philippians 2:6-8: Here, we see how Jesus humbled Himself, becoming a servant and obedient to the point of death.
      • “Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.” (Philippians 2:6-8, KJV)

Reflection: True greatness is found in the willingness to serve others, following the exemplary model set by Christ.

III. The Authority of Christ

  • Role of the High Priest: Jesus serves as the Great High Priest, mediating between God and humanity in a unique and powerful way.
  • Key Points:
    • Hebrews 5:1-5: This passage outlines the role of a high priest and highlights that Jesus, unlike other high priests, did not need to offer sacrifices for His own sins.
      • “For every high priest taken from among men is ordained for men in things pertaining to God, that he may offer both gifts and sacrifices for sins.” (Hebrews 5:1, KJV)
    • Hebrews 5:5-10: Here, we learn that Christ’s authority as High Priest is rooted in His perfect obedience and ultimate sacrifice.
      • “So also Christ glorified not himself to be made an high priest; but he that said unto him, Thou art my Son, to day have I begotten thee.” (Hebrews 5:5, KJV)

Insight: The authority of Christ liberates us from our guilt, offering us grace and freedom.

IV. Prophetic Fulfilment

  • Prophecy Overview: The prophecy concerning the Messiah conveys that He will bear the immense weight of governance and peace.
    • “For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.” (Isaiah 9:6, KJV)
  • Key Facts:
    • As the Prince of Peace, Christ offers us a profound sense of liberty.
      • “Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth even forever.” (Isaiah 9:7, KJV)
    • His authority signifies not just power, but a profound responsibility over all creation.

Discussion: How does this prophetic insight shape our understanding of Christ’s ongoing role in our lives today?

V. Application for Today

  • Key Takeaways:
    • The completion of Christ’s work brings us assurance of our salvation.
      • “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.” (Ephesians 2:8-9, KJV)
    • Understanding His authority empowers us to live lives filled with obedience and service to others.
    • Placing our trust in Christ leads us to experience peace, even amidst life’s challenges.

Reflection: In what ways can you embody the principles of Christ’s finished work in your daily life?

Conclusion:

  • Final Thoughts: The work that Christ accomplished is complete, and through Him, we are liberated and saved.
    • “When Jesus therefore had received the vinegar, he said, It is finished: and he bowed his head, and gave up the ghost.” (John 19:30, KJV)
  • Encouragement: Embrace the joy that comes from the liberty offered by Christ, serving others in the same manner He served us.

Closing Prayer: May we seek strength to uphold our calling and fully embrace the peace that is found in our relationship with Christ.