In Acts 10-12 we learn that God’s message of redemption is intended for all people, not just the Jews. It still holds true today that God offers freedom to all people, no matter who they are or what they’ve done.

As Christ followers we no longer have to drag the chains of spiritual bondage. We can experience freedom in Christ. Here are key points from Pastor Troy Murphy’s message at Green Bay Community Church on Sunday, July 26:

Jesus breaks the chains of barriers, exclusionism
Christ followers should not point fingers and look down at the sinful world and declare: “I don’t want to associate with those people.” Our purpose is to become the voice and witness for Christ and point others to him. That won’t happen if we exclude ourselves from being around certain types of people. What barriers do you need to tear down to be God’s witness?

Jesus breaks the chains of legalism
Many live in bondage because they think they will find favor in God’s eyes by following a set of rules. The Christian life is not about abiding by a certain moral code. That brings bondage because no one can live up to God’s standard of perfection. We need to rely on Jesus, who paid the price for our sins so that we could be free.

Instead of being tied to rules, you should have a desire to love and serve God out of gratefulness. Legalism says God will love us if we change. The gospel says God will change us because he loves us.

Jesus breaks the chains of favoritism
In Christ we are all the same. Your identity is not in your gender, ethnicity, job, where you live, your bank account, etc. Your identity is in Jesus. Put asise your conscious and unconscious biases and treat all people as God does: with love, care and respect.

Jesus breaks the chains of sin
Too often we hang onto sins and allow them to limit the freedom we have in Christ. Don’t allow something that brings temporary happiness keep you in bondage. Jesus died so you don’t have to carry around chains. Are you free?