Independence Day and Freedom in Christ

So July 4th is a day steeped in tradition, celebration, and noise.

One of the most interesting traditional celebrations of Independence day is the annual hot dog eating contest. It is held at the original Nathan’s Famous location on Coney Island.

Now this is a really big deal - they are part of the Major League Eating - the governing body of competitive eating contests around the country.

MLE is a professional league - and did you know The International Federation of Competitive Eating considers competitive eating to be a sport, and some competitive eaters treat it like a serious athletic endeavor.

This contest is so big it airs on ESPN

This year they are at the forefront of a newsworthy controversy in that the reigning champion Joey Chestnut - who has won 16 of the last 17 contests has been banned from entering the contest.

The reason for the disqualification is that Chestnut has an endorsement deal with Impossible Foods, the high-tech vegan-food firm.

While Nathan’s Hot Dogs was willing to make some concessions, they reached an impasse over money and ingredients.

Chestnut’s banishment was mourned by one of the guys responsible for the eating contest that acknowledged Chestnut as the “face of fourth of July.”

It is interesting how the intentions of making the fourth of July a national holiday has morphed into this.

We call it “fourth of July, or Independence Day”

Some fascinating facts, trivia, and anecdotes I discovered about the 4th of July:

Signing of the Declaration: The Declaration of Independence wasn't signed on July 4, 1776. The Continental Congress officially adopted it on that date, but most delegates signed the document on August 2, 1776.

John Adams and Thomas Jefferson: Both John Adams and Thomas Jefferson, the only signers of the Declaration of Independence who later became presidents of the United States,

John Adam - the second president of the United States

Thomas Jefferson the third president of the United States.

These two former presidents died on the same day: July 4, 1826, just hours apart - exactly 50 years after the adoption of the Declaration.

Holidays in the Colonies: Before the Declaration, colonists would celebrate the King's birthday. After the declaration, these celebrations shifted to commemorating the independence of the United States.

Early Celebrations: In the early years, Independence Day was celebrated with mock funerals for King George III as a way of symbolizing the end of the monarchy's hold on America and the triumph of liberty.

Fourth of July Becomes a Federal Holiday: Congress made July 4th a federal holiday in 1870. It wasn’t until 1941 that it became a paid holiday for federal employees.

Coinciding with Hot Dogs: According to the National Hot Dog and Sausage Council, Americans consume around 150 million hot dogs on Independence Day, making it the most popular day for hot dog consumption in the U.S.

Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest: This contest has been held every July 4th since 1916 at Nathan’s Famous Corporation’s original and best-known restaurant at the corner of Surf and Stillwell Avenues in Coney Island, Brooklyn, New York City.

Liberty Bell Tradition: The Liberty Bell in Philadelphia is tapped (not rung) thirteen times every Independence Day in honor of the original thirteen colonies.

The stars on our flag used to be 13 in number and arranged in a circle as well - it was to represent the colonies being together and in unity

Longest Running Fourth of July Parade: The Bristol Fourth of July Parade in Bristol, Rhode Island, is the oldest continuous Independence Day celebration in the United States. It was first held in 1785.

Fireworks Imports: Approximately 95% of fireworks used in the U.S. for Independence Day celebrations are imported from China, contributing to the $1 billion industry.

Independence Day - or 4th of July

It is a commemoration of the passage of the Declaration of Independence by the Continental Congress in 1776.

The Declaration announced the political separation of the 13 North American colonies from Great Britain.

It also set up three basic ideas -

(1) God made all men equal and gave them the rights of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness;

(2) the main business of government is to protect these rights;

(3) if a government tries to withhold these rights, the people are free to revolt and to set up a new government.

The Bible also has much to say about freedom - no not so much civil liberty - but SPIRITUAL LIBERTY -

Listen to what Paul tells the church at Galatia about their freedom and liberty:

Galatians 5:1 KJV 1900

1 Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage.

I appreciate how the English Standard Version translates this verse:

5 For freedom Christ has set us free; stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery

I want to take a few minutes tonight and give more of a devotional thought on what freedom means for the believer.

True liberty is the God-enabling ability to live as we should, not as we please.

Freedom is not just a secondary outcome of Christ’s atoning work; it is the very essence and purpose of His mission. Jesus came to set us free in a holistic sense – spiritually, morally, and relationally. This freedom is foundational to our identity in Christ and shapes every aspect of our Christian walk.

There are five aspects what this freedom means for us I would like to talk about tonight:

1. Freedom from Death:

John 3:16 “16 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”

Jesus' sacrifice on the cross offers us freedom from death and eternal life. This is the ultimate expression of God's love and the best news for humanity.

Freedom from death for the Christian is a multifaceted and profound reality that transforms our understanding of life, death, and eternity. It encompasses the promise of eternal life, victory over sin and death, the hope of resurrection, present freedom and joy, and a new perspective on our earthly journey. This glorious freedom is secured through the atoning work of Jesus Christ, offering believers an unshakeable hope and a foundation for living with purpose and courage

For the Christian, freedom from death is not only about escaping physical demise but about embracing the fullness of life in Jesus Christ, both now and forever.

1. Eternal Life:

Promise of Eternity: At the heart of the Christian faith lies the promise of eternal life. This promise assures believers that death is not the end but the beginning of an everlasting existence with God. In Christ, we have the hope and certainty of living forever in His presence.

Quality of Life: Eternal life is not just about duration but about quality. It is a life filled with the presence, joy, and peace of God. Jesus said in John 10:10, "I came that they may have life and have it abundantly." This abundant life starts now and continues forever.

2. Victory Over Sin and Death:

1 Corinthians 15:54–57 “54 So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory. 55 O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory? 56 The sting of death is sin; and the strength of sin is the law. 57 But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.”

Christ's Triumph: Jesus Christ's resurrection is the cornerstone of Christian hope. His victory over death is our victory. By conquering the grave, He has broken the power of sin and death, ensuring that death no longer has the final say.

No Fear of Death: For believers, the fear of death is replaced by the confidence of eternal life. Hebrews 2:14-15 tells us that Jesus shared in our humanity "so that by his death he might destroy him who holds the power of death—that is, the devil—and free those who all their lives were held in slavery by their fear of death."

3. Transformation and Resurrection:

Philippians 3:20–21 “20 For our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ: 21 Who shall change our vile body, that it may be fashioned like unto his glorious body, according to the working whereby he is able even to subdue all things unto himself.”

New Bodies: The promise of resurrection means that believers will receive new, glorified bodies like Christ’s resurrected body. These bodies will be free from pain, suffering, and mortality. This transformation signifies the complete redemption and renewal of our entire being.

Hope in Suffering: This hope provides immense comfort in times of suffering and loss. Knowing that death is not the end but a transition to a glorious new existence can sustain and encourage believers through the trials of life.

4. Present Freedom and Joy:

Romans 8:1–2“1 There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. 2 For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death.”

No Condemnation: Freedom from death also means freedom from condemnation. Christians are liberated from the penalty of sin, which is death, and are now under the law of the Spirit, which brings life.

Living with Purpose: This freedom empowers believers to live with purpose, joy, and boldness. Knowing that eternal life is secure allows Christians to focus on living for God’s glory, loving others, and spreading the good news of the Gospel.

5. A New Perspective on Life and Death:

2 Corinthians 5:6–8“6 Therefore we are always confident, knowing that, whilst we are at home in the body, we are absent from the Lord: 7 (For we walk by faith, not by sight:) 8 We are confident, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord.”

Heavenly Mindset: Freedom from death gives Christians a new perspective on life and death. Life on earth is seen as temporary, a pilgrimage towards our true home with the Lord. This eternal perspective shapes how we live, make decisions, and face challenges.

Courage and Confidence: Believers can face the future with courage and confidence, knowing that to be "away from the body" is to be "at home with the Lord." This assurance transforms our approach to both life and death.

2. Freedom from Sin:

John 8:34–36 “34 Jesus answered them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Whosoever committeth sin is the servant of sin. 35 And the servant abideth not in the house for ever: but the Son abideth ever. 36 If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed.”

Receiving Jesus, being born again, frees us from the bondage of sin. Although Satan may continue to attack, we are no longer slaves to sin but are empowered by Christ to overcome it.

Again freedom in Christ is not just a by-product of what Christ did for us on the cross - it was the very reason he did it.

I know that this was intended to be devotional - but I want to get a little theological here…

This freedom in Christ is a

Direct Intent of Christ’s Work: The phrase "For freedom Christ has set us free" indicates that freedom is the explicit aim of Christ’s redemptive act. It’s not something that happens accidentally or secondarily. Jesus came to liberate humanity, and this liberation is central to the Gospel.

There is an intentional Emphasis on Freedom: The repetition of the word “freedom” underscores its importance. Christ’s mission was inherently about setting people free – free from sin, the law, death, and spiritual bondage.

It is a Holistic Liberation:

Spiritual Freedom: Christ’s death and resurrection free us from the spiritual consequences of sin. We are no longer under the condemnation of the law (Romans 8:1-2).

Freedom from Legalism: Believers are also freed from the legalistic demands of the Mosaic Law. We are not bound to follow the law as a means of attaining righteousness but are justified by faith in Christ (Galatians 3:13).

Freedom to Live Righteously: A freedom from the power of sin - This freedom enables us to live a life that pleases God. We are empowered by the Holy Spirit to bear fruit and live out our faith in practical ways (Galatians 5:22-23).

3. Freedom to Choose Our Path:

1 Corinthians 6:12 “12 All things are lawful unto me, but all things are not expedient: all things are lawful for me, but I will not be brought under the power of any.”

Galatians 5:1 “1 Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage.”

God gives us free moral agency to choose our paths with the help of grace. True freedom involves choosing Christ and living a life that honors Him.

4. Freedom to Proclaim the Gospel:

Luke 4:18 “18 The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised,”

We are called to spread the Gospel, sharing the freedom we have found in Christ with others. Like Paul, our mission is to bring salvation to our families, communities, and beyond.

5. Freedom to Enjoy Life in Christ:

Romans 8:1–2 “1 There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. 2 For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death.” :

Psalm 97:10 “10 Ye that love the Lord, hate evil: He preserveth the souls of his saints; He delivereth them out of the hand of the wicked.”

Living in Christ frees us from condemnation, allowing us to enjoy a life full of God's grace and protection.

In thinking about freedom especially how the ESV translates it which is more accurate according to the Greek rendering of the verse:

5 For freedom Christ has set us free; stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery

I can’t help but think of a true story I heard recently.

Back in the 90’s a young freshly doctored veterinarian Bryan Rein set up shop in the small town of Geraldine Montana.

Things were going well until a frantic 911 call and welfare check on July 14 led to the discovery of the vet’s body at the mobile home he was renting.

He had been shot several times and the gun was on the floor not far from his body. The first responders, officers, and detectives that arrived first on the scene concluded suicide and began to throw away things and clean up.

This was a tragic mistake as the required autopsy declared cause of death as unknown.

Later when Agent Ken Thompson of Montana’s department of criminal investigation arrived at the scene on July 15, 1996 some of the discarded items were beyond recovery and of no help for an investigation.

The Agent immediately began to suspect foul play and began questioning suspects, attempting to run forensic testing on what little things he could, and pursuing the investigation.

They soon landed on a prime suspect by the name of Thomas Jaraczeski. While I’m leaving many of the details out - Jaraczeski had been in a relationship with the vetenarian’s now girlfriend but it had fallen apart and she was done with him.

While many things looked and sounded suspicious Jaraczeski maintained his innocents, and no evidence could tie him to the scene.

The prosecutors went ahead with the charges and a trial date was set in 1998 two years after the shooting.

The case was thrown out by the judge because there was no evidence that could be brought. But the judge’s dismissal included a clause that allowed for a retrial if new information or evidence became available.

In 2014 Jaracezki who had moved from the area was arrested and charged with the murder of Bryan Rein again.

His defense attorney had what we called in MO a coniption fit - there was no new evidence brought to the case and the same information and witnesses and experts were lined up.

The trial commenced, the jury selected, and the evidence laid out. When the case rested and the jury deliberated eight hours to come back with a not guilty verdict.

Jaracezki laid his head on the table and wept - he was now free. The law of Double jeopardy was in his favor

Double jeopardy is a legal principle in the judicial system that prohibits an individual from being tried twice for the same offense. This protection is enshrined in the Fifth Amendment to the United States Constitution, which states: "nor shall any person be subject for the same offense to be twice put in jeopardy of life or limb."

We we are under judgment and death, bound in chains of sin and death - In one instant - in that moment of relationship with Christ those chains are broken, Jesus breaks the chains and sets us free.

We are free

Chris Tomlin added to John Newton’s Amazing Grace: My chains are gone, I've been set free, my God, my Savior has ransomed me

Charles Wesley wrote: "My chains fell off, my heart was free, I rose, went forth, and followed Thee."

Albert E. Brumley "He set me free, yes, He set me free, He broke the bonds of prison for me."

Another has left us with: I am free, I am free, I am free indeed, through the blood of the Lamb

So thankful for Gal 1:5

Galatians 1:5 KJV 1900

5 To whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.