More Than Just a Story - the Book of JohnSample

The context of these verses indicates that this crowd is made up of both Jewish and non-Jewish people. It is interesting to note that Jesus uses the example of slaves—common to both groups—to introduce the concept of being set free.

At that time, a slave could only be declared “free” by their owner or by the owner’s son if the owner had passed away. Jesus often used practical examples to communicate spiritual truth. The Jews believed that because they were biological descendants of Abraham, they were not slaves (Genesis 12:1-3) and therefore did not need to be set free. Their reasoning was that, since Abraham had no son when the covenant was given, the promise must have been referring to the Jewish nation as a whole—meaning they were not in bondage.

Jesus then addressed the believers directly about what they needed to do to be truly free. He told them, “Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free” (John 8:32). But what is the “truth” they needed to know? Only Jesus—the Truth—could set them free.

He then explained how they could experience this freedom: by abiding in His word. The Greek meaning of abide is “to stay, remain, and continue.” This implies setting up a permanent residence, and that residence should be in our hearts. The more time we spend with Him in His word, the more we get to know Him, and the greater freedom we experience. He sets us free from anything holding us back—whether it’s addiction, greed, depression, anger, or anything else—so that He can fully dwell in our hearts and lives.

Have you allowed Jesus to take up permanent residence in your life?
What might be holding you back from fully surrendering to Him?
Is there someone in your life who needs to be set free by Jesus?
Who might that be?
Ask Him to move in their life today.