Tag: freedom in Christ

The HARDEST Thing for Man: The AUDACITY to Believe He’s ALREADY Free

Most people find it easier to feel guilty than to believe they’re already free. This message breaks that illusion. Discover why unworthiness is the greatest lie ever told — and how the audacity to believe what Christ finished changes everything.

The hardest struggle for man isn’t sin — it’s belief. Not belief that God exists, but belief that His finished work in Christ has already made us free. Humanity has learned to confess its sins with trembling lips, yet finds it almost impossible to confess its righteousness with confidence. It feels safer to stay in guilt than to step into grace. False humility bows its head low, but true faith dares to look God in the eye and see what He sees.

We call it humility when we say, “I am unworthy,” yet Heaven calls it unbelief.

The Death That Ended It All

Paul’s question in Romans 6:2 cuts through every shadow of doubt:

“How shall we who died to sin live any longer in it?”

He’s not arguing for moral perfection — he’s pointing to identity. Those who are baptized into Christ’s death have already crossed the line. Sin’s dominion ended at the cross. The old man was crucified, not reformed.

To live as though sin still defines us is to stand at an empty tomb, searching for a body that’s no longer there.

False Humility: The Mask of Unbelief

There’s a kind of piety that loves to feel broken — the endless confession of failure, the language of unworthiness. It sounds spiritual, but it denies the victory of the cross. The enemy doesn’t mind your repentance if it keeps you from renewal.

Unworthiness is a lie from the pit — crafted to keep you powerless, to rob you of the abundant life Christ secured. The power of God flows through identification: knowing you are a new creation. The Spirit doesn’t visit you to make you feel better about the old nature; He lives in you to reveal that the old nature is gone.

The Audacity of Renewal

“Be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” (Romans 12:2)

This isn’t a call to self-improvement — it’s an invitation to think from resurrection ground. The renewed mind doesn’t beg for what grace already gave; it reckons it true. It dares to say, I am the righteousness of God in Christ, not as a boast, but as alignment with truth.

Faith is audacity — the courage to agree with God even when feelings protest.

Living from Possession, Not Pursuit

Hebrews 6:1 urges us to

“Leave the elementary teachings and go on to maturity.”

The writer isn’t belittling repentance; he’s pointing us beyond it. We’re not meant to live at the doorway of forgiveness, forever repeating the same entry prayer. The house has rooms — joy, peace, sonship, authority, and fellowship with God.

You were never meant to chase freedom. You were meant to live from it. The Spirit of Christ has furnished you with everything needed for godliness and victory. The abundant life isn’t a promise hanging in the future; it’s a possession now.

The Assurance of Forgiveness

The English reading of 1 John 1:9 seems to suggest that God continually forgives each time we confess, but the Greek reveals something deeper. The verb ἀφῇ (aphē) stands in the aorist subjunctive — describing not a recurring process, but a complete act. John’s point isn’t that believers must live in constant cycles of confession and guilt; it’s that forgiveness has already been accomplished in Christ. Confession, then, is not a means to earn cleansing but an honest walk in the light — agreeing with God about what’s already true.

The surrounding verses clarify John’s audience. “If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves” (1 John 1:8) speaks to those who denied their need for redemption, not to those already cleansed. And “If anyone sins, we have an Advocate with the Father” (1 John 2:1) offers assurance, not reapplication of atonement. Christ’s advocacy is not a fresh sacrifice but the enduring voice of His finished work.

John’s message harmonizes perfectly with Paul’s: believers live not in sin-consciousness but in truth-conscious fellowship. The light doesn’t condemn — it confirms – Romans 8:1. The believer’s heart rests, knowing forgiveness is not pending approval but a settled reality secured by the faithfulness and justice of God through His Son.

The Boldness of the New Mind

To believe you are free is not arrogance — it’s agreement. The mind renewed by the Spirit no longer wrestles with whether it deserves love. It simply abides in it. This is the hardest thing for man: not repentance, but reception; not striving, but resting in what Christ has already accomplished.

The cross ended the question of worthiness. Resurrection began the life of the new creation.

And the world still waits for those who dare to believe it.

Many Christians believe that Jesus died for them, yet few reckon that they themselves died with Him on the cross — a truth symbolized in baptism. They celebrate His resurrection but seldom grasp that they too have already risen with Christ, seated with Him in heavenly glory. The essence of the gospel is not just what Christ accomplished on our behalf, but what happened to us in Him: our old, sinful nature was crucified, and a new creation was born. This new creation — God’s workmanship (poiēma), His masterpiece — is not a reformed sinner but a wholly new nature. Righteousness is not a goal to be achieved, but a gift already received by faith, and Romans 5:17 promises that those who receive this abundance of grace and the free gift of righteousness reign in life. Reckoning this reality, especially that we are the righteousness of God in Christ, is crucial; failure to do so grieves the Holy Spirit. Dwelling in false humility, sin-consciousness, or continual confession of what is already done away in Christ disrupts our reigning and chokes the life of God in us. Believing only in what Christ did, without embracing what He made us to be, keeps many walking in the shadow of the grave, striving to improve a self that is already dead, instead of living fully in the resurrection life they’ve already been given.

The YOKE You DON’T WEAR: Breaking Free from PULPIT LIES 

Imagine a believer—head bowed, hands clenched, tears streaking down their face—pleading at the altar for the tenth time to have some “yoke” broken. The preacher’s voice booms, “The anointing breaks the yoke!” The crowd cheers, the music swells, and the air thickens with desperation. But here’s the gut punch: “What if the real bondage isn’t the yoke they’re weeping over, but the lie they’ve been fed?” What if they’re already free—and no one told them?

I’m tired of it. Tired of ministers butchering verses like Isaiah 10:27, twisting a promise of deliverance into a never-ending cycle of spiritual begging. Tired of seeing Christians live in defeat, brokenness clinging to them like damp rot, because unqualified voices behind pulpits peddle half-truths to fill pews and their own stomachs. The enemy’s having a field day, and it’s time we stopped letting him win.

The Truth: Christ Broke the Yoke

Let’s get this straight—scripture doesn’t stutter. “For freedom Christ has set us free,” Paul declares in Galatians 5:1. “Stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery.” Romans 8:2 nails it: “The law of the Spirit of life has set you free in Christ Jesus from the law of sin and death.” Jesus Himself says, “If the Son sets you free, you are free indeed” (John 8:36). That’s not a maybe, not a “someday”—it’s done. On the cross, the Anointed One—the Christ—shattered the yoke of sin, death, and the law’s curse (Colossians 2:14-15). The “anointing” of Isaiah 10:27? It’s fulfilled in Him, not in some emotional altar call.

Back then, Israel groaned under Assyria’s boot—a literal yoke of oppression. God promised relief, and He delivered. But Christ took it further. He didn’t just break a political chain; He demolished the root of all bondage. If you’re in Him, the Holy Spirit seals that freedom (2 Corinthians 3:17). The enemy’s got nothing left but lies—and he’s banking on you not knowing it.

The Lie: Pulpit-Born Bondage

So why are Christians still shuffling to the front, week after week, begging for a breakthrough they already have? Because too many pulpits are peddling bondage dressed up as hope. Isaiah 10:27 gets yanked out of context—Assyria’s long gone, but now it’s your debt, your anxiety, your “generational curse” that needs breaking. Preachers shout it, congregations lap it up, and the truth gets buried. They’re not teaching liberty—they’re selling shackles. “Worse, by submitting to this, believers fall into the devil’s scheme—discrediting what God wrought through Christ, spitting on the redemption bought with blood.”

It’s negligence at best, greed at worst. Paul warned of “teachers to suit their own passions” (2 Timothy 4:3), men who “imagine that godliness is a means of gain” (1 Timothy 6:5). When a minister’s more interested in a packed house than a freed people, they lean on drama—“yoke-breaking” moments, endless deliverance prayers—anything to keep you coming back. The result? A church full of heirs acting like beggars, blind to their inheritance (Romans 8:17). The enemy doesn’t need to chain you when ignorance does it for him.

The Shackles Fall: You’re Already Free

Here’s the eye-opener: If Christ broke the yoke, you’re not wearing it. Life’s got battles—Paul took his share of beatings (2 Corinthians 11:23-28)—but they’re not bondage. They’re fights you wage from victory, not for it (1 Corinthians 15:57). Guilt? Nailed to the cross (Romans 8:1). Fear? Crushed by perfect love (1 John 4:18). “Curses”? Christ became the curse for you (Galatians 3:13). Jesus didn’t offer a heavier yoke—He called His “easy” and His burden “light” (Matthew 11:30).

Stop begging. Start standing. “Take up the whole armor of God,” Paul says, “that you may be able to withstand… and having done all, to stand firm” (Ephesians 6:13). Know the Word—test every sermon against it. Claim what’s yours—freedom isn’t a feeling, it’s a fact. The enemy’s trembling because a church that knows its liberty is a force he can’t stop.

The Challenge: Reject the Lie

Next time you hear “the anointing breaks the yoke” tossed around like a spiritual cure-all, ask: “What yoke?” Christ’s work is finished (John 19:30). The shackles aren’t yours—they’re relics of a lie, relayed by ignorance and negligence. “Every time you buy that lie, you’re handing the enemy a win, trampling the cross underfoot.” Quit running to altars for what the cross already gave you. Demand better from the pulpit. And live like the free man or woman you are.

The enemy’s had his run. Let’s end it.

Overcoming BESETTING SIN: A Call to Spiritual Maturity in Hebrews 12:1

In Hebrews 12:1, the Apostle challenges believers to live with perseverance, casting off everything that hinders their spiritual journey. This passage offers profound insight into the nature of sin and spiritual growth, especially when it speaks of “the sin which doth so easily beset us.” The phrase here invites us to reflect on how sin, particularly besetting sin, can hinder our walk with Christ. This article explores the meaning of besetting sin, its connection to iniquity, and the path to spiritual maturity that enables believers to overcome such entanglements, enriched with practical steps, broader context, and diverse perspectives on this timeless call.

Hebrews 12:1 – "The Sin Which Doth So Easily Beset Us

The verse says:

“Let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us.”

This verse is part of a broader exhortation in the book of Hebrews, likely written to Jewish Christians facing persecution, urging them to stay faithful. It highlights the importance of laying aside any distractions or sin that slows us down in our spiritual race—a marathon of endurance, not a sprint, reflecting the athletic contests of their day. The specific sin described in this passage is one that entangles or ensnares us, hindering our spiritual growth and progress.

Understanding "Besetting Sin"

The phrase “beset” is translated from the Greek word “euperistaton” (εὐπερίστατον), meaning something that is easily surrounding, or entangling. It conveys the image of sin as something that easily encircles or ensnares a believer, preventing them from advancing in their faith and spiritual maturity.

So, what exactly is besetting sin? This term can refer to:

1. A Specific Temptation or Habitual Sin: Besetting sin is often seen as a recurring, habitual sin—a pattern or inclination that continually trips up the believer. It might be something like pride, anger, lust, lying, gossiping, covetousness, unforgiveness, or dishonesty—sins that seem to persistently ensnare the believer’s thoughts, actions, and attitudes. These are not occasional lapses, but rather persistent struggles that hold a believer back.

Besetting sins can also manifest as envy and jealousy, where a person continually desires what others have and feels resentment about their success or blessings. Addiction to substances, behaviors, or habits, such as pornography, gambling, or alcohol, can grip the believer’s life. Selfishness and self-centeredness may lead one to prioritize their own desires over others, while laziness and slothfulness prevent spiritual or physical growth.

A believer might also struggle with impatience and irritability, constantly feeling frustrated by others, or fear and anxiety, allowing worry to overshadow faith in God’s promises. Unbelief and doubt may plague the heart, causing one to question God’s goodness or provision. In other cases, pride in achievements or status can result in boasting and conceit, while greed and materialism drive one to focus on accumulating wealth or status instead of seeking God’s Kingdom. Some may wrestle with a lust for power or control, attempting to manipulate others or situations, or a critical spirit and judging others, constantly finding fault without offering grace.

Unforgiveness and bitterness often hinder spiritual growth, while deceit and hypocrisy make it difficult to live authentically. Lastly, the idolatry of comfort and convenience, or a lust for attention or approval, can lead a person to prioritize ease, pleasure, or validation over faithfulness to God.

These besetting sins are not isolated incidents but recurring struggles that require intentional effort, prayer, and accountability to overcome. They demand deep transformation by the Holy Spirit and continual reliance on God’s Word to break their hold and allow the believer to grow in spiritual maturity.

2. Iniquity (Lawlessness): The concept of besetting sin aligns with the biblical idea of iniquity—a deeply entrenched moral perversity that is not merely a one-time act of sin but a persistent condition. Iniquity speaks to lawlessness or rebellion against God, and it manifests in habits or attitudes that entangle the believer in sinful behavior. This sin may be so deeply ingrained in the believer’s nature that it keeps them from growing spiritually, often because they have not fully submitted to Christ’s transformative work. From this root, presumptuous sins (Psalm 19:13) can sprout—willful, arrogant acts of defiance, like rejecting God’s truth in pride or greed. While besetting sins entangle through habit, iniquity’s rebellion can fuel these bold transgressions, deepening our need for deliverance.

Yet, perspectives vary. Some scholars suggest “besetting sin” isn’t always a personal habit but a situational temptation—like the Hebrews’ pressure to abandon faith amid trials. Others see it as communal, with the “us” implying the church collectively shedding sins like division or apathy. These views enrich our grasp of the term, showing its depth beyond a single definition.

The Role of Sin and Iniquity in Spiritual Immaturity

The nature of besetting sin is often tied to spiritual immaturity. In Hebrews 5:13-14, the writer describes the difference between spiritual infancy and spiritual maturity, highlighting that immature believers are unskilled in the Word of righteousness and struggle with distinguishing good from evil. Just as an immature person may be unable to eat solid food, spiritually immature believers struggle with besetting sins—sins they are unable to overcome because they lack the maturity to discern what is good or right in God’s eyes. This reflects their place in sanctification—the lifelong process of becoming more like Christ, shedding sin for holiness.

– Spiritual immaturity can lead to habits of sin that persist in a believer’s life, as they are still caught in elementary principles and unable to grasp the fullness of the gospel’s power to deliver them from sin. These besetting sins can become habitual, often reflecting a lack of spiritual growth and understanding.

– Iniquity entangles a person because they have not yet fully learned to put off the old self and live in the freedom of Christ. Instead of relying on the gospel’s power to overcome sin, they may fall back into old patterns of rebellion and disobedience, unaware of the maturity and spiritual freedom that Christ offers.

Laying Aside Every Weight and Sin

In Hebrews 12:1, the command to “lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us” speaks to the deliberate action needed to free ourselves from what hinders our spiritual journey. Every weight refers to things that are not necessarily sinful in themselves but can still impede our progress—distractions, misplaced priorities, or even good things that consume too much of our attention. These can be anything from worldly pursuits to unnecessary anxieties. Some debate whether “weights” are distinct from “sin” or overlap—perhaps neutral burdens like cultural traditions or excessive busyness—but the call remains to shed them.

However, the besetting sin refers to the specific sin that ensnares or entangles us. These are the habitual or recurring sins that prevent us from running the race with endurance. This sin is often persistent and deeply ingrained, and overcoming it requires both spiritual maturity and intentional effort.

How do we lay these aside practically? Consider these steps empowered by Christ:

– Pray and Confess: Set aside time daily to name your besetting sin—be it lust or pride—and ask the Holy Spirit to reveal its roots and grant strength to resist (James 5:16).

– Engage Scripture: Memorize Hebrews 12:1-2 or Psalm 119:11 (“Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee”) and recite it when tempted, renewing your mind.

– Seek Accountability: Share your struggle with a trusted believer who can pray with you and check in regularly, fostering mutual encouragement.

– Replace Habits: If anger ensnares you, redirect that energy by serving others or journaling triggers to avoid future traps.

Thus, the call to lay aside every weight and besetting sin is an invitation to spiritual maturity—a growth that involves setting aside distractions and habitual sins that keep us from fully pursuing Christ. Freedom in Christ empowers us to overcome entangling sins and to live out our faith with perseverance.

The Race Set Before Us: Perseverance in Christ

The latter part of Hebrews 12:1—”let us run with patience the race that is set before us”—reminds us that the Christian life is a race of perseverance, requiring endurance and focus on the ultimate goal. The race symbolizes the journey of sanctification, in which believers are called to grow in spiritual maturity, leaving behind the sin that hinders and running towards the goal of Christlikeness—a marathon of trust, not a fleeting sprint.

– Overcoming besetting sin is part of the sanctification process—a continual movement toward spiritual maturity where we learn to trust in Christ and grow in our ability to overcome sin. The call to run with patience means that we will face challenges, temptations, and struggles along the way, but we are to remain focused on the prize—the high calling of God in Christ Jesus (Philippians 3:14).

– The focus on Jesus as the author and perfecter of our faith is crucial in overcoming besetting sin. We cannot win the race by our own efforts alone. Our victory over sin, iniquity, and spiritual immaturity comes through looking to Jesus, who has already secured the victory for us.

Traditions vary here: Catholics might emphasize sacraments like confession as aids, while Reformed believers stress God’s sovereign grace enabling triumph. Both affirm Christ’s centrality, deepening the verse’s call.

Conclusion: Overcoming Iniquity and Besetting Sin

The “sin which doth so easily beset us” is a vivid image of the entangling nature of iniquity—sins that persistently hinder the believer’s spiritual progress. Whether this refers to specific recurring temptations or a more pervasive struggle with iniquity, Hebrews 12:1 calls us to lay it aside and run the race with endurance, focused on Jesus as our strength.

Freedom in Christ means that we no longer need to remain ensnared by besetting sin. With the help of the Holy Spirit, the Word of God, and the community of believers, we are called to grow in spiritual maturity, discern good from evil, and ultimately overcome the iniquity and sin that once easily entangled us. The journey toward spiritual maturity requires perseverance, but it is through Christ that we are enabled to run with patience and endure to the end, experiencing the fullness of God’s righteousness and grace.